Independent candidates at odds over performance of Sutherland Shire councillors

Tony Robins, the lead candidate for Shire Independents in C Ward, said last week residents were unhappy with the council's performance, he had observed inefficiency by councillors and staff, and more energy and fresh faces were needed.

Ms Cowell, the lead candidate for Shire Sports Independents in E Ward, said the performance of councillors was not why she was running.

"The council's vision of 'a connected and safe community that respects people and nature, enjoying active lives in a strong economy' is a vision that I want to be part of," she said.

"As councillors, you are responsible for setting and overseeing the broad, strategic direction of our beautiful community."

"Key priorities the council is focused on, such as sustaining our beautiful and healthy environment, supporting active lifestyles, maintaining a high quality of life, a culturally rich and vibrant community and of course a prosperous community for all, is something that as a resident of the shire, I want to have a direct involvement in overseeing and ensuring that our community's voice is being heard."

Ms Cowell said the shire had been fortunate to have "some great councillors over the years, who have devoted their time to serve their community".

"Yes some have been MIA (missing in action), but overall, we in Sutherland Shire have seen wonderful initiatives aligned to the councils vision," she said.

"A lot of different people who have dealt with council have suggested it is not responsive enough, doesn't listen and is not transparent.

"As I am an action person, I thought the best way to understand the challenges being experienced by council was to put my hand up for election in E Ward and get an insider's view."

Ms Cowell said the council had significant challenges in delivering more than 300 services to a community of approximately 230,000 in an area of 369 square kilometres.

"We need positive, transparent, service minded and collaborative people as our representatives on council so that we can move fast and get things that our community want done," she said.

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