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Archive => Archived Boards => Local Elections and Council Matters => Topic started by: K.C.Dowling on April 09, 2018, 11:17:06 AM

Title: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 09, 2018, 11:17:06 AM
Dear Forum.

Please find attached my manifesto for the 2018 Local Elections which I hope is self explanatory.
Apologies for the K.C.Dowling username, I am trying to change this shortly to Kevin Dowling, I am one and the same, but I am having some IT difficulty.

[attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: admin on April 09, 2018, 02:19:36 PM
Here's a copy of Kevin Dowling's manifesto pasted from the pdf version attached to his post below. Admin

Kevin Dowling: Marple Independent for Compstall, Marple, Marple Bridge, Mellor, Mill Brow, Rosehill.

Hello,

My name is Kevin Dowling

I am a published, local author (3 books) and the proprietor of the Springfield Hotel, which is situated on Station Road, Marple. The Springfield has been serving the local community since the 1960s.

For many years I have both lived and worked in Marple. It is a community I recognise, I care about and I am committed to.

In the forthcoming local elections on Thursday, 3rd May, I will be standing as an Independent Candidate for Marple North.

I am standing at this election because as a former councillor (2011-2015) I have seen how National Party Politics, stifles local government. How it devours the time and energy of our ‘locally elected representatives’ and how they become pre-occupied with issues that they were not elected to give their time and energy to. These issues distract them, even detach them completely, from local matters, matters that they were elected to give their time and energy to.

Local Councillors should be primarily concerned with, and dedicated to, local business, NOT NATIONAL Problems.

Nevertheless, because we have no choice, we as the local electorate vote these National parties in, year after year. As a consequence, our important, local Marple issues such as: vehicular traffic congestion, parking, school places, public realm, transport, housing, policing and an abundance of others, are far too often, left unprioritized at best and at worst, ignored.

This year is different, WHY? Because this year you will have the opportunity to relegate All the National parties and vote for somebody independent, somebody truly Local. Don’t waste this precious opportunity.

I will not be invading your letterbox, every few days, with leaflets, that play the same old song, the one, they keep giving us at every election. Nor do I intend to appear uninvited on your doorstep. This leaflet will be the only unsolicited communication you will receive from me during this campaign.

So, please consider this. In Marple North are we really, once again, going to elect some completely, previously unknown face, from one of the same old, self-interested, National parties? Do we have to eternally tolerate our Local community issues being overshadowed by an agenda that has been set at some National Party HQ? Surely, we are overdue in returning at least one, Local Independent Representative. A representative who is completely free of National party politics and who has a prime objective, to use all his time and energy in office, to focus upon the right kind of preservation and development for our local neighbourhood.

ARE YOU LOCAL AT LOCAL ELECTIONS ?

THEN VOTE IT

VOTE KEVIN DOWLING


kevin1dowling@gmail.com
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 09, 2018, 05:30:53 PM
Hello Admin,

Thank you

Really appreciate the technical help and expertise.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 10, 2018, 12:57:46 PM
Hi Kevin

I am pleased to see you standing again as an Independent Candidate . I agree with most of your comments about the advantages of having an Independent Councillor.  I just wanted to point out that the Green Party is a "bottom up" party.  Green councillors are not shackled by headquarters national policy, and can vote as they wish regarding local issues, unlike councillors from the other Parties.  Social and environmental justice will always be at the heart of all Green Party policy, however, whether at National or Local level

Best of luck

Carolyn Leather
Green Party Candidate for Marple North
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: chris wallis on April 10, 2018, 07:08:06 PM
Hi Kevin

I'm the Labour candidate in Marple South. What party did you represent when you were a Councillor?

Chris Wallis

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 11, 2018, 07:11:57 AM
Hello Carolyn,

The "bottom up" party has become a bit of a cliché now. Nevertheless thank you for your grace and your kind words and good luck to you also. 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 12, 2018, 11:19:42 AM
Hello Chris,

I'm curious, why are you standing for a seat in Marple, when you live in Heaton Mersey? What is your Marple connection?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: jimblob on April 12, 2018, 01:25:44 PM
Hi Kevin,
I'm intrigued to understand what you manifesto actually is. It reads as to why we should note vote for a candidate aligned to a mainstream party but doesn't state anywhere what you actually stand for it intend to do?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Digster on April 12, 2018, 03:41:11 PM
Hi Kevin,
I'm intrigued to understand what you manifesto actually is. It reads as to why we should note vote for a candidate aligned to a mainstream party but doesn't state anywhere what you actually stand for it intend to do?

I also wondered the same jimblob.  Plus, for me, his posts seem really harsh.  He was wished well by Carolyn Leather but had to had a swipe before thanking her.  Chris Wallis asked a question and rather than reply had a swipe at him also.  I realise that sometimes emails etc. can come across quite different than was intended but the posts do not sound great.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Condate on April 13, 2018, 12:42:39 PM
Hi Kevin,
I'm intrigued to understand what you manifesto actually is. It reads as to why we should note vote for a candidate aligned to a mainstream party but doesn't state anywhere what you actually stand for it intend to do?

Indeed so. Personally, I'd much rather vote for an independent candidate and am reluctant to vote for any candidate who gives a party allegiance (although I'm in Marple South). Indeed, I'd rather every councillor was an independent. However, I'm never going to vote for a candidate simply on the grounds that they are an independent. I need to know what exactly their views are on a range of issues. It's always the specific views of the candidates that matters; not their party label or lack thereof.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 14, 2018, 07:09:19 AM
Let's keep a sense of perspective here.

What I am offering to the voters of Marple North only, is an opportunity to vote for an independent candidate who works and lives in the ward.

Other than that, I make no claims, other than those in my recent submission, which is on this thread a few posts down from this one. 

If you wish to vote for me then your vote is most welcome and greatly appreciated, if you don't then that's fine. 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Will L on April 14, 2018, 04:41:37 PM
That is the issue here. We know we'd be voting for an independent candidate who lives and works in the ward as do a couple other candidates on the ballot. We don't actually know what you'd seek to do for Marple in the event of you winning.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 15, 2018, 11:40:24 AM
Hello jimblob,


Not quite sure what you mean exactly, by your recent post. More than happy to respond if you clarify.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 15, 2018, 12:00:45 PM
I also wondered the same jimblob.  Plus, for me, his posts seem really harsh.  He was wished well by Carolyn Leather but had to had a swipe before thanking her.  Chris Wallis asked a question and rather than reply had a swipe at him also.  I realise that sometimes emails etc. can come across quite different than was intended but the posts do not sound great.

There seems to be some confusion here. It is easy to understand how this has occurred: Two candidates both for Labour and both called Chris. My question was to Chris Gleeson not Chris Wallis. Chris Gleeson is standing in Marple North, yet posts his address as: 1 Pleachway, Heaton Mersey. I wondered as to his/her Marple connection? 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 09:47:37 AM
Hello Admin,

I read with interest, your recent response to Carolyn, in relation to conduct on the Forum. Many of your points are well made and worthy of mention. There is though ( I am sure you will agree) a fine line between setting conduct boundaries and dictating the way people should speak. In particular example of this, is your observation, insisting that candidates 'concentrate' on extolling our own virtues and desist from criticising our opponents.

In my own particular instance, a main motivation in standing for this election, is that I have observed how over the last few years Marple has stagnated. There are of course many reasons for this, very little is singular. However, a major reason, for my own participation, is the local political situation that exists and prevails. The current party coalition that presides over our ward, knows that all it has to do to preserve electoral loyalty is to just turn up at various meetings. If this situation doesn't change, then neither will the stagnation. Anything we ask of the council we are politely told  '...no money...' and we politely accept this and go away. Your own recent, almost heartbreaking, story about the dog pooh day in the park, is testimony to this polite acceptance.

Only last week I received yet another Lib Dem Leaflet,  the opening sentence proclaiming the election to be a 'close run' fight between the Lib Dems and the Conservatives.

I wouldn't know the Lib Dem candidate if he knocked on my door tonight. All I know about him is that he is a serving firefighter. I don't know anything about the 'paper candidate' w ho has been put forward by the Conservatives. One of these could soon be our councillor.

So, I think that I am entitled to ask some questions. I will strive to be polite but I do not intend to be obsequious.   
   

Perhaps the time has arrived for more candour, from everybody, not just candidates. 

     
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Steve Gribbon on April 16, 2018, 09:57:19 AM


I wouldn't know the Lib Dem candidate if he knocked on my door tonight. All I know about him is that he is a serving firefighter. I don't know anything about the 'paper candidate' who has been put forward by the Conservatives. One of these could soon be our councillor.

Kevin, that's not very fair. We met and both went for the Lib Dems Councillor candidacy in 2016 and we wished each other all the best in the Samuel Oldknow pub 2 weeks ago!

Kind regards

Steve
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: admin on April 16, 2018, 09:59:39 AM
In my own particular instance, a main motivation in standing for this election, is that I have observed how over the last few years Marple has stagnated. There are of course many reasons for this, very little is singular. However, a major reason, for my own participation, is the local political situation that exists and prevails. The current party coalition that presides over our ward, knows that all it has to do to preserve electoral loyalty is to just turn up at various meetings. If this situation doesn't change, then neither will the stagnation. Anything we ask of the council we are politely told  '...no money...' and we politely accept this and go away. Your own recent, almost heartbreaking, story about the dog pooh day in the park, is testimony to this polite acceptance.

So tell us why voting for you will make a difference Kevin, that's what we want to hear. I don't care if you know the other candidates or not. What I would like know is how will you un-stagnate Marple?

And I would love to know how you would resolve the dog in the park if you were elected too.....
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: CllrGeoffAbell on April 16, 2018, 10:30:51 AM
Steve and yourself did talk - I was there!  (Not that we just talk politics down the local, do we Kevin?)
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: jimblob on April 16, 2018, 10:55:55 AM
Hi Kevin,
quite simple really, you've made statements about the current political balance in Marple and it's ineffectiveness, "Councillors just have to turn up". You've stated Marple has stagnated in recent years, you've had a pop at other candidates, but you've not stated your position on: -
speed measures
local traffic schemes
Hazel Grove / M60 bypass
traffic congestion
potholes
bringing investment into Marple
how to deal with Stockport council officers to the benefit or Marple rather that just blame them or battle with them

just a few local contentious issues...
but more importantly, how you think you can make a difference and what you'll actually do differently to the current elected Councillors.
If you're hoping to win votes, there's a distinct lack of substance to date as to why you consider yourself to be "the independent Councillor Marple North needs.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 11:04:14 AM
Kevin, that's not very fair. We met and both went for the Lib Dems Councillor candidacy in 2016 and we wished each other all the best in the Samuel Oldknow pub 2 weeks ago!

Kind regards

Steve

Well, all I can say Steve, is that on both occasions  we must not have made a lasting impression on each other.


Anyway whilst we are speaking, I've got a question for you. Which I ask in the politest way I know how and which I ask in an objective way and not in a challenging way.

Being a local councillor, at least doing the job properly, is a full-time demanding role and  not the part-time situation some think it is. Councillors need to be available at all times. Being a councillor and working in a full time career are just not reconciled. Your two ward colleagues are testimony to this. Do you plan to manage both and how do you think that you can do this. How can you be in two places at once. How do you plan to attend both the fire and the meeting with the dog-warden.

Perhaps you are retiring from the fire service - do tell.   
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: andrewbowden on April 16, 2018, 11:15:12 AM
Anyway whilst we are speaking, I've got a question for you. Which I ask in the politest way I know how and which I ask in an objective way and not in a challenging way.

Being a local councillor, at least doing the job properly, is a full-time demanding role and  not the part-time situation some think it is. Councillors need to be available at all times. Being a councillor and working in a full time career are just not reconciled. Your two ward colleagues are testimony to this. Do you plan to manage both and how do you think that you can do this. How can you be in two places at once. How do you plan to attend both the fire and the meeting with the dog-warden.

Perhaps you are retiring from the fire service - do tell.

I think if you're going to ask a question like that Kevin, it's only fair how you would plan to do it yourself as a proprietor of a business.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 11:33:57 AM
So tell us why voting for you will make a difference Kevin, that's what we want to hear. I don't care if you know the other candidates or not. What I would like know is how will you un-stagnate Marple?

And I would love to know how you would resolve the dog in the park if you were elected too.....


If I didn't know you better, I would think that you were just trying to cause mischief. Anyway I'll give you the benefit of the doubt.

Of course you don't care if I know the other candidates or not you don't live in Marple North, you vote in Marple South. However, I do and I also have a business there. The  identity of a potential councillor is important to the electorate.

As for the dog pooh, see my recent post.   
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 11:39:50 AM
I am the 'proprietor' Andrew.

I have people to run it for me. I don't have to be there. In fact as we speak now, I am in another country. 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Steve Gribbon on April 16, 2018, 11:45:38 AM
Well, all I can say Steve, is that on both occasions  we must not have made a lasting impression on each other.


Anyway whilst we are speaking, I've got a question for you. Which I ask in the politest way I know how and which I ask in an objective way and not in a challenging way.

Being a local councillor, at least doing the job properly, is a full-time demanding role and  not the part-time situation some think it is. Councillors need to be available at all times. Being a councillor and working in a full time career are just not reconciled. Your two ward colleagues are testimony to this. Do you plan to manage both and how do you think that you can do this. How can you be in two places at once. How do you plan to attend both the fire and the meeting with the dog-warden.

Perhaps you are retiring from the fire service - do tell.

Hi Kevin

I take no offence in you not remembering me from the Hustings and from 2 weeks ago. We actually spoke at length at the Hustings and I thought we got on very well but like I said no offence taken.

I am happy to answer about my employment as indeed this was asked at our Hustings. I have no problem with doing both roles, I am very lucky in that my work have confirmed I am allowed time off to attend meetings as it in in our work time policy. Because I work shifts I know exactly when my time in and time off is and I can plan well in advance. I can offer evidence to this on the basis that since I began my campaign I personally have knocked on over 1400 doors (I have just come in now from being out meeting people), attended many local meetings and took part in activities. This to me is part of being a Councillor. I am fully aware it is not 'regular hours' and again my helping people out in the evening is evidence of this.

I haven't just started my campaign, I have been working hard since September last year which I hope is more proof that I have the time to do the role. I have provided regular updates on my activities in the area on this site. I am proud of this fact and it is testimony to the wonderful place we live that I want to be involved as much as possible.

For the last 4 years I have also run a small business with no problem. Please be aware that all my work in this business has stopped since my campaign began, and should I be elected the entire operation will be closed down as my being a Councillor is 100% priority. I also pride myself on having drive, energy and ambition and that is why I am very confident that I can perform a role in local Council with no issues. I am not going into this blindly, I have discussed this with my family, my employers and other Councillors and all of this has made me understand that the representing our community is exactly what I want to do. 

My planned retirement is in 2022, when I will be 50 years of age.

Kind regards

Steve Gribbon
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: andrewbowden on April 16, 2018, 11:58:23 AM
I am the 'proprietor' Andrew.

I have people to run it for me. I don't have to be there. In fact as we speak now, I am in another country.

That's a perfectly fine answer.  Obviously not all proprietors of businesses do likewise, hence I didn't feel that was an assumption anyone could make automatically.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 12:27:18 PM
In my view fair enough asked Andrew and I hope that you will agree,fair enough answered.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 12:52:40 PM


but more importantly, how you think you can make a difference and what you'll actually do differently to the current elected Councillors.
If you're hoping to win votes, there's a distinct lack of substance to date as to why you consider yourself to be "the independent Councillor Marple North needs.
[/quote]


Jimblob, I think that we are at variancce here,  a couple of points.

What IS  your actual address. Are you working for the Lib-Dems or the Tories?

Is it not very obvious what my position is, on issues such as 'traffic congestion' and potholes ? Do you think that I would argue for more potholes ? I don't really have the time nor the inclination to answer such questions. As for 'hoping to win votes,' I have no such aspirations. In fact, if I were to win this election, in a lot of ways, it would be greatly disadvantageous to me.

I have said it many times. All I am doing is giving the electorate of North Marple the opportunity to vote for an independent candidate. Obviously, I'll approach the task in a positive way but the opportunity itself is good enough for me. If you or anybody else wishes they wish to vote for the same old coalition, then, that's up to them. In another three years time we'll still be complaining about dog-pooh in the park but I will have kept my promise, by standing.       
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: jimblob on April 16, 2018, 01:05:33 PM
Well I have to say that's the post bizarre response ever. "As for 'hoping to win votes,' I have no such aspirations"
I've no party allegiance, I'm certainly not a Lib Dem supporter, definitely not Labour and was genuinely looking for an alternative to the political mainstream. Sadly, Kevin I think you've probably convinced me not to vote at all.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Condate on April 16, 2018, 01:06:19 PM

Is it not very obvious what my position is, on issues such as 'traffic congestion' and potholes ? Do you think that I would argue for more potholes ? I don't really have the time nor the inclination to answer such questions. As for 'hoping to win votes,' I have no such aspirations. In fact, if I were to win this election, in a lot of ways, it would be greatly disadvantageous to me.

I have said it many times. All I am doing is giving the electorate of North Marple the opportunity to vote for an independent candidate. Obviously, I'll approach the task in a positive way but the opportunity itself is good enough for me. If you or anybody else wishes they wish to vote for the same old coalition, then, that's up to them. In another three years time we'll still be complaining about dog-pooh in the park but I will have kept my promise, by standing.       

I'm in Marple South and so couldn't vote for you anyway. It's not at all obvious what your position is on potholes or traffic congestion. At least not on how you think the problems can be addressed and where the money to solve them will come from. I'd love to vote for an independent candidate, as I agree that party politics is ruining local government. However, I wouldn't vote for any candidate without knowing what their ideas are on how to solve the many problems councils face.

As I say, I think we need independent councillors, but independent councillors with clearly set out plans on how to tackle the issues facing the electorate.

 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 05:34:57 PM
Jimblob, of course you think it's 'bizarre.'  You are used to those trite mantras that are trotted out as National Party Dogma. When you hear something different it sounds 'bizarre.' I though, am not bound by such fetters.  I can tell the truth as I see it.  If their candidates said what I said, then their nominations would be withdrawn at Head Office.

If you have decided not to vote, then that's your decision not mine and it is probably the right one for you.

Look at poor old Condate, no wonder he huffs and puffs on this site. He hasn't even got the opportunity to vote for anybody that isn't National Party fodder, you could be in his position.   
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 16, 2018, 05:53:18 PM
Councillor Geoff,

I write to you, not in criticism in any way of either you or the council, but because you are the only serving local councillor who gives us any information on this forum.

Condate was asking about... 'Where is the money for potholes was coming from?' So I thought that I would follow up, his valid concern.


Please feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, this is my question. The exact date eludes me, but I think that it was some time in 2015. The Council was considering taking on  what it described as 'Providential Borrowings.' It was a large sum ( I think £50 million was the figure) and this sum was to be used exclusively for repairs to the roads and footpath network across the borough. I believe that it was on an invest to save basis, the theory being that once the network had been raised to a certain standard, the money could be recouped by drawing back on the endless road maintenance programme. 

What actually happened with this?   

   
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 07:19:04 AM
Good-Morning Everybody


Hello Steve,

Thank you for your prompt and eloquent reply to my question about you being able to carry out the dual full- time roles of Firefighter and local councillor.

1400 doors eh? The householders must be thrilled.

I don't for one minute, doubt your sincerity and your theorized commitment.  However, your self delusion in believing that you can do both jobs is amazing. You will no doubt be equally amazed and disappointed to know that I will not be voting for you.

Can I count on your vote?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: admin on April 17, 2018, 07:24:02 AM
If I didn't know you better, I would think that you were just trying to cause mischief. Anyway I'll give you the benefit of the doubt.

Right back at you Kevin :)
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Digster on April 17, 2018, 07:39:39 AM
Good-Morning Everybody


Hello Steve,

Thank you for your prompt and eloquent reply to my question about you being able to carry out the dual full- time roles of Firefighter and local councillor.

1400 doors eh? The householders must be thrilled.

I don't for one minute, doubt your sincerity and your theorized commitment.  However, your self delusion in believing that you can do both jobs is amazing. You will no doubt be equally amazed and disappointed to know that I will not be voting for you.

Can I count on your vote?
Just for once do you think you can either answer a question/post a comment without having a dig at somebody/something please?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 07:48:49 AM
Right back at you Kevin :)
,

Hello Admin,

I would like to take this opportunity to say thank-you for working both hard and creatively in providing and managing this forum. Without which this public interchange of views on a very important local issue would not be taking place.

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 07:56:47 AM
Whatever I say 'Digster,' and whatever people think of it, they know who is saying it, because my name and photo is on it.

Unlike yourself.

Just joined the forum eh?  Just in time for the election, highly suspicious if you ask me, Libdem or Tory?




Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Digster on April 17, 2018, 08:33:24 AM
Whatever I say 'Digster,' and whatever people think of it, they know who is saying it, because my name and photo is on it.

Unlike yourself.

Just joined the forum eh?  Just in time for the election, highly suspicious if you ask me, Libdem or Tory?
Recently moved into the area
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 08:41:36 AM
Recently moved into the area

Really, where from ? Welcome to Marple.

Post your name and address, I'll send you a campaign leaflet.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 10:45:21 AM
Hello again Steve,

I feel that I must press  this issue.


I'll apologise if I'm wrong but in the last ten years on Stockport Council, I cannot recall one single case of a serving Emergency Services worker serving as a councillor. This is no coincidence and is quite simply because performing both tasks effectively is not possible.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 17, 2018, 11:33:34 AM
Kevin, I think Steve has already said that he can swap shifts etc if necessary.

I am frustrated by Stephen's refusal to partake in discussions about policies and I have still no idea about his views about issues that concern me personally. I still have not seen a Stockport Lib Dem manifesto either. 

What is clear is that he is trying very hard to get this job.


Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: admin on April 17, 2018, 12:11:06 PM
But over and above that, they should also concentrate on telling voters what their own policies are and what they are going to do for the area that they wish to represent. Tell us why to vote for you, rather than why not to vote for the others.

So nobody is taking any notice of this then?
As far as I'm aware this is the only independent platform for candidates to promote themselves that hasn't been blocked to political postings by administrators but all you seem to want to do is snipe at your opponent.
Should I follow Marple Matters and Marple Community Hub and close this one down too?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 17, 2018, 12:12:41 PM
A Lib Dem leaflet that came through my door said that the Lib Dems had wanted to cut certain allowances for councillors, but the motion was not approved by Conservative and Labour councillors,  I have learnt from Geoff Abel that the average councillor's expense is £9.6k.  Most people would need another job to supplement this income.  If we want committed councillor's who will dedicate plenty of time to the role, I personally think it would not be a good idea to cut their allowances.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 17, 2018, 12:16:35 PM
My comments below were meant as a compliment to Steve's hard work.  I don't think he can have any option to have a full time job as well as hoping to become a councillor, unless he has a wealthy partner
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: andrewbowden on April 17, 2018, 12:23:57 PM
A Lib Dem leaflet that came through my door said that the Lib Dems had wanted to cut certain allowances for councillors, but the motion was not approved by Conservative and Labour councillors,  I have learnt from Geoff Abel that the average councillor's expense is £9.6k.  Most people would need another job to supplement this income.  If we want committed councillor's who will dedicate plenty of time to the role, I personally think it would not be a good idea to cut their allowances.

You can find all the information about councillors allowances at https://www.stockport.gov.uk/councillors/members-allowances.  This includes all the current rates, and historical information on what each councillor has entitled to. 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 12:45:37 PM
Kevin, I think Steve has already said that he can swap shifts etc if necessary.

I am frustrated by Stephen's refusal to partake in discussions about policies and I have still no idea about his views about issues that concern me personally. I still have not seen a Stockport Lib Dem manifesto either. 

What is clear is that he is trying very hard to get this job.

Carolyn,

I am sure that you are a lovely woman and that Steve is a lovely man. I am not doubting his sincerity nor his effort in any way. I have concerns about his perception of his time. Do you think that I should keep them to myself or bring them to the attention of the electorate?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Condate on April 17, 2018, 01:05:54 PM
My comments below were meant as a compliment to Steve's hard work.  I don't think he can have any option to have a full time job as well as hoping to become a councillor, unless he has a wealthy partner

Personally, I would hope councillors did have full time jobs. When I become old enough to vote, the local (not in Marple) Conservative councillor was my local newsagent and the local Labour councillor (and mayor at times) was a driver for British Rail (on Class 40s on the ICI Hoppers). The other councillors over the years either had full time jobs, or were retired. That was expected and nobody expected, or wanted, full time councillors. The whole point of the councillors was that they were ordinary people doing ordinary jobs who also gave up (a lot) of their spare time to sit on the council.

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 01:18:03 PM
So nobody is taking any notice of this then?
As far as I'm aware this is the only independent platform for candidates to promote themselves that hasn't been blocked to political postings by administrators but all you seem to want to do is snipe at your opponent.
Should I follow Marple Matters and Marple Community Hub and close this one down too?

Admin,

I have not noticed any sniping. I am certainly not offended by anything that has been said against me. I'm not that sensitive nor immature. It's a political election! I posted my manifesto almost immediately I started the thread. I think that it is self-explanatory. I draw your attention to the last paragraph, which is my most salient point. 

 What is 'sniping' about that.

If you wish to close  the thread/forum down, it's up to you, but in my opinion, you will be doing a disservice to the Marple electorate. This election is never going to be won or lost on this forum anyway, but If people don't want to hear, then they won't tune in. However a thousand viewings  on this thread alone in the space of a few days says different. 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 17, 2018, 01:31:24 PM
My previous replies to Kevin were written in haste.  I would like the opportunity to rephrase if possible please?

My view, given that I have been told by a serving councillor that the average councillor's allowance is £9.6k, is that it is unrealistic for councillors not to have another source of income.  For most people, this is going to mean also having a full time job.

This is an issue which is worthy of discussion.  My view is that if councillors' expenses were reduced, this would preclude a whole section of society from applying for office.  We could end up with a situation where we simply have retired and wealthy people serving on the council.  Whilst they will have a valuable contribution to make, my view is that the council should be made up of people of all ages and from all walks of life.

If the public expects a councillor not to hold another job, then the renumeration of councillors needs to be reviewed. 



Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: CllrGeoffAbell on April 17, 2018, 01:37:28 PM
Councillor Geoff,

I write to you, not in criticism in any way of either you or the council, but because you are the only serving local councillor who gives us any information on this forum.

Condate was asking about... 'Where is the money for potholes was coming from?' So I thought that I would follow up, his valid concern.

Please feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, this is my question. The exact date eludes me, but I think that it was some time in 2015. The Council was considering taking on  what it described as 'Providential Borrowings.' It was a large sum ( I think £50 million was the figure) and this sum was to be used exclusively for repairs to the roads and footpath network across the borough. I believe that it was on an invest to save basis, the theory being that once the network had been raised to a certain standard, the money could be recouped by drawing back on the endless road maintenance programme. 

What actually happened with this?   


Thanks Kevin - I do try to keep people updated when I can say something useful.

You were a Lib Dem exec member at the time this was started and you remember correctly.  £100m  capital was borrowed on the Highways Improvement Programme to repair each ward's roads and footpaths in turn.  The idea being that maintenance and insurance claims would consequentially reduce.  Marple North was done a few years ago, with a variety of treatments.  (This good idea was first done by Tory-run Blackpool.) 

The Labour admin have continued with this scheme.  I have looked at the remaining wards and I have not yet seen Marple South mentioned as being done this year, and Windlehurst/Hibbert in particular are bad for potholes. 
(And the Labour council leader has another job, but is a doing good stab at running the council at the moment.  Hope you notice me mentioning 2 other parties in a positive light - credit where it's due!)

In addition, as this year's council tax is going up so much, Lib Dems proposed reducing the number of exec members, rather than the basic allowance, and that would reduce the overall bill.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 17, 2018, 01:40:14 PM
Thank you Andrew Bowden, I've looked at the link you posted.

The basic allowance for councillors in 2017 was £10025.

This is approximately 2/3s the salary of someone earning the minimum wage.


Definitely something to reflect upon I think when discussing what time input we can expect from our councillors.

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: andrewbowden on April 17, 2018, 01:47:59 PM
Carolyn, many employers do make allowances for those elected to be a councillor.  For example, my employer will grant up to 18 working days leave per year to members of local councils provided that such absences do not conflict with operational requirements.  Additional leave can be taken but it is unpaid (as is anything that conflicts with operational requirements).

Given councils are often big undertakings - certainly at the county or metropolitan borough level - does make me wonder whether we should we have fewer councillors who essentially work full time.  I can see the arguments for and against, but the current system certainly has the potential to exclude.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 02:29:53 PM
Thanks Kevin - I do try to keep people updated when I can say something useful.

You were a Lib Dem exec member at the time this was started and you remember correctly.  £100m  capital was borrowed on the Highways Improvement Programme to repair each ward's roads and footpaths in turn.  The idea being that maintenance and insurance claims would consequentially reduce.  Marple North was done a few years ago, with a variety of treatments.  (This good idea was first done by Tory-run Blackpool.) 

The Labour admin have continued with this scheme.  I have looked at the remaining wards and I have not yet seen Marple South mentioned as being done this year, and Windlehurst/Hibbert in particular are bad for potholes. 
(And the Labour council leader has another job, but is a doing good stab at running the council at the moment.  Hope you notice me mentioning 2 other parties in a positive light - credit where it's due!)

In addition, as this year's council tax is going up so much, Lib Dems proposed reducing the number of exec members, rather than the basic allowance, and that would reduce the overall bill.


Thanks Geoff, greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 03:35:49 PM
Carolyn, Andrew Boden and others,

I did not wish to initiate a debate about members allowances. They differ from council to council anyway. For example, in neighbouring Manchester, the basic, annual allowance for 2016/17 was £16,470.00. In fact the top allowance paid to one member was £57,608.00. In addition to this most council scheduled meetings in Manchester are during the day whereas in Stockport they are in the evening. The debate rages over allowances, and opinions range from one extremity to the other, mostly the views of councillors, the electorate doesn't seem to care that much. I can honestly say that I have never come across a councillor (any party colour) who was doing it for the money.

If I can just drag us back to the matter in hand, which is the forthcoming local election in Marple North. Money is irrelevant to this and my point is about time not money.

It is not the scheduled meetings that are the problem. By definition they are 'scheduled' and can be planned for. It is the multiplicity of business that arises from them and outside of them, which often an ordinary, elected member is unaware of in advance and relatively short notice dictates, that if one is to be effective, one's time needs  to be one's own. 

Anyway, I have said enough on this matter now and I hope that my view is clear and on the record.   

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 17, 2018, 07:46:47 PM
andrewbowden,


Apologies for spelling your name incorrectly.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 18, 2018, 09:06:59 AM
Postal vote process starts today.


Who is the Conservative candidate for Marple North?

Where is the Conservative candidate for Marple North?

If you are the Conservative candidate for Marple North, Why are you invisible?
 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 27, 2018, 02:05:22 PM
That's what I call a poster!   
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 27, 2018, 03:45:30 PM
What do you mean??
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 27, 2018, 04:44:11 PM
Hello Carolyn,

I'd put it on the forum If I knew how, it certainly deserves to be.

Admin would probably censor it though...Ah, Well.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: amazon on April 27, 2018, 05:10:36 PM
Hello Carolyn,

I'd put it on the forum If I knew how, it certainly deserves to be.

Admin would probably censor it though...Ah, Well.
Voted done dusted .
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 27, 2018, 05:22:12 PM
Well Done Amazon,

I won't ask.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 28, 2018, 08:47:55 AM
Question for Hannah,

By the way welcome to the website.


You say in your leaflet that you will... protect Marple North from inappropriate residential development.'  What exactly do you mean by 'inappropriate.' I appreciate that it is an open question, so, just to localise it a bit. How would you classify the current/ongoing residential development on Manor Road ?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: wheels on April 28, 2018, 10:06:56 AM
What an excellent question Kevin for the development you mention really is an outstanding example of a tacky poorly designed development with the most inconsiderate of developers.

I doubt you will get an answer however as I don't expect the Bredbury Tory even knows what you're talking about.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: amazon on April 28, 2018, 03:13:11 PM
Well Done Amazon,

I won't ask.
Sorry Kevan ...
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 29, 2018, 06:35:53 AM
So Far Wheels,

It would seem that you are right in your assumption.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 29, 2018, 04:03:32 PM
Dear Marple North Electorate.


We all know that this election next Thursday, is not a National Election. Governments are not going to be decided on the outcome of the local election of Marple North.

From many of the postings I have read on this forum, on vast and varied subjects, it is obvious to me, that in recent years, say the last three, many of you are uneasy with the way SMBC has managed our ward. We all know that whether, we think it justified or not, we are in straitened times, in the land of austerity. However we just cannot go on accepting this, as the reason for a  never ending can't do mantra. Life goes on and our elected officials must challenge this retort and this is something that in recent years, that they evidently and seemingly have not been doing.       

It is also obvious that you won't obtain improvement or change, unless you ask for it and press your requests until it happens. I have said this before but if you continue to support and vote for the same old political hegemony, nothing will alter.

Today, on the forum we complain recently about such as: footpaths, the development on Manor Road, dog-muck in the park, the leaks in our water and drain system, traffic management, law enforcement, It is a well worn cliché, but the list is truly endless. In isolation, these issues are not life-changing for many but much larger issues loom ahead and they may be. What do our council representatives, both incumbent and prospective do on this forum? That is to say those who can be bothered to come on the forum, for some of them, don't even do that.  They just treat us with the disdain, that they seemingly believe, we will accept and they ignore us. Even those who come on the forum, often just use it to verbally glad-hand and congratulate each other, for no greater achievement than they have attended a meeting. Whilst all this goes on they expect, anticipate and are even counting on us voting for them.

How can they make this outrageous assumption ?

It is all to do with the party political system that grips the nation with its un-openable vice like hand.

There is only one answer, send the political class  a message,  ON THURSDAY, DON'T VOTE FOR THEM. THIS TIME YOU HAVE A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO VOTE FOR  AN INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE, WHO IS NOT ENSLAVED BY ANY POLITICAL PARTY SYSTEM AND WHO WILL STAND UP AGAINST THE 'CAN'T DO, GOT NO MONEY,' MANTRA. This is an opportunity almost without precedent, don't waste your vote by going down the party route again.

To all those who are considering voting Labour. You cannot win this election. There has never been a Labour Councillor in Marple, in modern times.   Very little is impossible in this world but that outcome is as close as it gets to being it. Do you really want to be represented on the council by another Lib Dem or even worse a Conservative. Keep them out. Voting for Labour is pointless, it's a waste of a walk to the polling booth, vote Labour next year if you want to, but on Thursday vote INDEPENDENT.

To all those who are considering voting Conservative. Does the campaign the Conservatives have presented this time, deserve you vote? It's highly unlikely you'll win. You were a poor second, last time, with a strong local candidate and you don't have that this time. Do you want to be instrumental in a Lib Dem victory once again? Just because you voted Conservative, What have you got in common with the Libdems ?.  THEN DON'T VOTE CONSERVATIVE ! IT'S  A CERTAIN VOTE FOR A RUNNER-UP AND IT'S NOT THE OLYMPICS YOU GET NOTHING FOR SECOND PLACE, IN POLITICS, SO VOTE  INDEPENDENT!

To all those considering voting Lib Dem. Send them a message, fire a shot across their bows. If you keep voting for them, then they'll keep doing what they've been doing. Which is what? Well answer that for yourself.

Vote with your brains this time, not with your feet or your past party allegiance.

VOTE INDEPENDENT.

You know what you get with the others, try something different , just this once.   

DON'T WASTE YOUR VOTE.

Did you realise, that if the Independent Candidate receives 50% of the votes cast last time from the three main party votes, then he is elected.

So What have you got to lose.

VOTE INDEPENDENT ON Thursday.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Bowden Guy on April 29, 2018, 06:28:59 PM
Remind everyone.....how many times did you post on this forum when you were "Councillor Kev" , as simonesaffrone once described you during the great Asda battle?
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 30, 2018, 06:31:09 AM
What is important now Bowden Guy, is your vote on Thursday.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Howard on April 30, 2018, 09:02:48 AM
I realise this is a catch 22 situation, but realistically, unless there's a massive sea-change in the political climate (and lets face it, there isn't one coming any time soon. The biggest change in recent years was UKIP and they've imploded since the referendum), in the Marple and High Lane wards it's either a Conservative or a LibDem who will win. The other candidates, whilst admirable they are standing up for what they believe, have effectively zero chance of winning here.

This means the a constituent either votes for the candidate/party they support or tactically for the lesser of two evils. Anything else is a wasted vote.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on April 30, 2018, 12:02:07 PM
Whilst their is logic and veracity in this viewpoint Howard, as long as it prevails, it will always be hard to effect change.

As far as the Libdem/Conservative candidacy is concerned, then don't vote for it.

Even if you fail to make an immediate change, you can make a large dent. If the Independent candidate gets enough support this year then you might have two next year.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: CllrGeoffAbell on April 30, 2018, 12:18:46 PM
What we need is proportional representation.  As well as being more representative (the US would not have elected Trump for instance), you get a direct voice for your views, someone can do your casework more honestly (e.g. in questions to ministers) and smaller parties get a share of democracy.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Howard on April 30, 2018, 12:53:26 PM
Absolutely PR is the way. Then independent candidates and smaller, minority parties, will have some voice. The issue is that entrenched interested at national level will never change the status quo as both the two major national parties have a vested interest in the situation remaining the same.

The LDs had their chance to give us a (very poor) version of PR in their coalition and blew it. It was only really the UKIP vote in the 2015 election that brought the issue to national prominence.

Until there is PR in the election I am voting in, I will continue to vote tactically.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Condate on April 30, 2018, 01:04:55 PM
What we need is proportional representation.  As well as being more representative (the US would not have elected Trump for instance), you get a direct voice for your views, someone can do your casework more honestly (e.g. in questions to ministers) and smaller parties get a share of democracy.

PR is the quickest and simplest way to end democracy. It largely enshrines political parties in the system and ends any real sense that individual areas select a man or woman (who may or may not belong to a party) to represent that town, city or area of the county. That said, the current rather eccentric consituencies do not help. Many no longer really represent logical areas. The point is, what we do at a General Election is choose an individual to represent Hazel Grove and that is all we do. What happens anywhere else is irrelevant. At this local election, we are selecting a person to represent Marple North or Marple South and High Lane. Nothing else.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: andrewbowden on April 30, 2018, 01:42:42 PM
PR is the quickest and simplest way to end democracy. It largely enshrines political parties in the system and ends any real sense that individual areas select a man or woman (who may or may not belong to a party) to represent that town, city or area of the county.

Thank goodness then that everyone votes for the individual and not the party, nor the party manifesto...

Oh. 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Newbie1 on April 30, 2018, 02:30:15 PM
To return to Kevin's original point, on Thursday, people are voting in local elections, choosing a new councillor, not a new MP. 

A lot of people have been scared by this mantra of "vote anything other than Lib Dem, then you will get a Tory."  I don't know if this is true.  What I do know is that the Conservatives have not tried very hard at all to win any new votes here in Marple North.  The Lib Dems won last time when the Conservatives had a strong, local candidate.  I am also confident to say to those who are afraid of getting a Tory councillor that they certainly won't end up with a Conservative controlled council even if Hannah is elected here in Marple North.

A lot of people have said to me that they really want to vote Green but are afraid to do so.  My advice is just go for it and vote for who you want to on Thursday.  Change is absolutely possible, we just need to be brave enough to attempt to make it happen. 

Whilst on the subject of change in politics, I'd like to send a message to the two men who shouted at me, and shouted me down in Marple on Saturday.   I guess I have to be flattered that you read everything I write, and feel threatened by my one woman campaign when you are fighting with a small army behind you.  You succeeded in making me feel intimidated.  Shame on you. 

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on May 01, 2018, 06:18:09 AM
Whilst their is logic and veracity in this viewpoint Howard, as long as it prevails, it will always be hard to effect change.

As far as the Libdem/Conservative candidacy is concerned, then don't vote for it.

Even if you fail to make an immediate change, you can make a large dent. If the Independent candidate gets enough support this year then you might have two next year.

What I meant to say also, is if the Independent Candidate doesn't get enough support, then probably next year you won't have any Independents. Marple North is the only ward in the whole of Stockport where an Independent party-less candidate is standing. The whole of Stockport is watching, give them something to look at.

Don't be a Libdem/Tory/Labour sheep again.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Howard on May 01, 2018, 08:44:42 AM
Whilst their is logic and veracity in this viewpoint Howard, as long as it prevails, it will always be hard to effect change.

Which is why I opened my point with "I realise this is a catch 22 situation"
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on May 01, 2018, 10:51:00 AM
Which is why I opened my point with "I realise this is a catch 22 situation"

I don't think that anybody is challenging your hypothesis, I'm certainly not, it is as you describe.

I feel as if I am labouring the point and repeating myself and that is probably because I am, but here goes again. The reason a main party candidate is always returned in Marple North is because, we don't have the opportunity to vote for anybody else, other than main party candidates. Well this time we do have that opportunity. If this Independent candidacy is to continue challenging  in future elections and if the Marple North electorate wants it to, then the candidacy needs support from the electorate. We don't have to win, it would be wonderful, of course if we did, but some level of support has to be evident.

i shall sign off now, on this forum, for this election.   

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: wheels on May 01, 2018, 01:00:53 PM
Question for Hannah,

By the way welcome to the website.


You say in your leaflet that you will... protect Marple North from inappropriate residential development.'  What exactly do you mean by 'inappropriate.' I appreciate that it is an open question, so, just to localise it a bit. How would you classify the current/ongoing residential development on Manor Road ?

Have you had an answer from the Bredbury Tory yet Kevin.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: K.C.Dowling on May 01, 2018, 05:22:42 PM
Have you had an answer from the Bredbury Tory yet Kevin.

Not a word, Wheels.
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: wheels on July 16, 2018, 08:25:29 AM
Indeed so. Personally, I'd much rather vote for an independent candidate and am reluctant to vote for any candidate who gives a party allegiance (although I'm in Marple South). Indeed, I'd rather every councillor was an independent. However, I'm never going to vote for a candidate simply on the grounds that they are an independent. I need to know what exactly their views are on a range of issues. It's always the specific views of the candidates that matters; not their party label or lack thereof.

Whether you call it party politics or not, anyone making decisions about how a local council should influence its local area is making decisions about political philosophy. It’s much better, both for the clarity of your own decision making and for the knowledge of the voters, to be upfront about what your values are.

Political labels help, rather than hinder, with that.

Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: Condate on July 16, 2018, 09:24:29 AM
Whether you call it party politics or not, anyone making decisions about how a local council should influence its local area is making decisions about political philosophy. It’s much better, both for the clarity of your own decision making and for the knowledge of the voters, to be upfront about what your values are.

Political labels help, rather than hinder, with that.

I don't think they do. Yes, you need to be upfront about what your values are, but the idea that there are only values which match even vaguely one of the main, or indeed minor parties is just not so. I do not know what the Conservative, or Labour, or Lib Dem political philosophy is on most local issues, because there isn't one and doesn't need to be one. The majority of decisions do not involve political philosophy. It tends to be politicians who think they do. Some decisions do; but even then, there are many more opinions than there are political parties.  What's more, on each issue, there are indeed 'parties' among councillors, but for each issue, the membership of these 'parties' vary although all too often, the voting on the issue follows party lines and not the 'party' each councillor follows. Overall, I think that political parties, especially at local level, hinder rather than help debate and good government.
 
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: CllrGeoffAbell on August 01, 2018, 08:10:43 PM
I can see why you said that, but there is a core belief of councillors that might influence their actions, e.g. in casework that concerns less-well-off residents.

I was in Vancouver a while back, and noted they had councillors with political parties - just not the same as the national ones!  What do you think about that idea?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver_City_Council (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver_City_Council)
Title: Re: Kevin Dowling: Independent Candidate for Marple North
Post by: wheels on August 02, 2018, 08:54:37 AM
I can see why you said that,


I can't.