Rather surprisingly this week, after their first council meeting one of the recently elected Reform opposition politicians complained about the time it took for things to get discussed. In truth, the annual meeting isn’t even among the longest in the council calendar. All I’ll say is they probably need to adjust their expectations.
Council debates, especially on contentious issues, can be detailed and, at times, lengthy. That’s because people don’t always agree. Councillors have a duty to speak for their residents, challenge decisions and respond to differing views. What some dismiss as “grandstanding” is, more often, legitimate scrutiny and advocacy.
We also have a responsibility to defend our record, highlight successes and raise concerns where needed. This is not self-promotion – it’s accountability. When others present a partial or misleading picture of our work, it’s right that we respond and set the record straight.
Not everyone will see every issue as equally important, but that doesn’t diminish others’ right to argue their case fully. One person’s “wasted time” is another’s essential contribution. Respecting that difference is fundamental to democracy.
Most importantly, this work is about serving you. You elect us to give careful thought to decisions, not rush them. Local government is complex.
In recent weeks alone, as a council we have been involved in funding a new youth club, unveiling new public art at Broadfield Barton, opening play areas with brand new play equipment in Tilgate and Ifield and increasing skills through additional funding at Crawley College. All of these things required work and discussion, sometimes a great deal.
People who are lacking in empathy and are convinced there are simple answers to every question, who until recently did not pay particularly close attention to how things work in local government, might be in for a bit of a shock. If every issue were straightforward, in most cases it would already be resolved.
New councillors will, of course, need time to learn – and we all recognise that, but they don’t need to be obnoxious about it in the process.
There will be times when any group feels debate is taking too long. Procedural tools exist to manage this, though they should be used sparingly – cutting off debate rarely reflects well on anyone.
In short, the time we spend in council meetings isn’t wasted. It’s an investment in doing the job properly, for you. And if I have anything to do with it, that’s how it will continue.
Cllr Michael Jones
Leader, Crawley Borough Council