Having been a Town
Councillor since 2003, and enjoyed the experience, why have I chosen to step
down now?
During my time as Town
Councillor, the most important project has been the new Community Centre in Pierremont Park.
Not because of the size of the project, nor the prestige that may go
with it, but because the community life of a town is an important measure of self
worth and spirit. Many in Broadstairs
come to retire, and then live alone when a loved one dies, when the facilities
which provide community support in the broadest sense of the term become vital.
We are nearer to completing
this project than at any time in the previous decade. The District Council is
finally properly committed and has approved a changed positioning; the Hereson
site sale brings in another tranche of funding; and consultation last year
showed a substantial majority in favour from those who responded.
I have therefore
accepted an invitation to become both a Director, and Chairman of the Board, of
the Broadstairs and St Peters Community Centre Trust
As I also fought
to retain the gymnasium on the former Hereson school site; and am already a
member of the group taking over The Memorial Theatre for community use as KCC
leaves that site, involvement in this project, and how it will blend with other
facilities, is, for me, fundamental to the future of Broadstairs.
I do not believe I
can fulfil a leadership position on the trust and be a Town Councillor without risking
accusations of conflict of interest. I
have thus decided to leave the Town Council, at least until the community
centre is built and open. Such is the poisonous fragility of District politics,
that excellent projects can be damaged by small minded gossip and rumour. It is
sad to note that generally, the Town Council has been free from the influences
of District politics, just getting on with doing things residents want without
rancour.
My resignation is
timed to permit the calling of any election for the same day as the County
ballot, which will mean a considerably smaller cost than running election for
this seat alone.
I would like to
formally thank Roy Dexter, his dedicated staff team, and Broadstairs electors
for all their support over the last 10 years.
Chris Wells
