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Our Readers' Views

DOES LICHFIELD WANT A RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION?

Where its efforts might be useful

To the Editor of the "Mercury"

Sir, - There does appear a desire, and doubtless a necessity, on the part of many citizens for the inauguration of a real live Ratepayers' Association in Lichfield. Many instances of controversial questions have occurred of late which could have been taken up with good effect by such an organisation. Surely the time is now opportune when residents of this ancient and loyal city should interest themselves more fully in our municipal life and have a voice in the management of it.

The Emergency Committee set up recently in connection with the City Council is only one example of how matters of real importance have been placed in the hands of a small caucus, the members of which apparently have not the slightest regard for the views and opinions of the large body of ratepayers, who, after all, are the only people who subscribe to the city's coffers.

The efforts of your esteemed newspaper in endeavouring to expose the shameful methods adopted in the selection and engagement of A.R.P. paid personnel were, I am sure, appreciated by the general body of ratepayers. There, however, you had to contend with the all-powerful officialism which appears to be the dictator as to what shall, or shall not, be done. Time after time these paid servants of the community "rule the roost" regardless of the wishes of the poor ratepayers. If the names of personnel can be published by other authorities, it is patent that there is no earthly reason for withholding the list of personnel in this city. I know that this opinion is shared by many of our volunteers who have given unstintingly of their time and services with no desire for payment, and it is in fairness to these volunteers that the names should be forthcoming. Many of the unpaid volunteers I know have been subject to insinuations and unfair criticism, which the publication of such a list would have obviated.

Viewing the various local happenings of late I am still of the opinion that an association such as I have mentioned could serve a very useful purpose in trying to counteract the glaring anomalies that frequently occur to the detriment of the large body of citizens.

If my view is shared by others and there does appear to be a genuine desire to formulate an association, I shall be only too pleased to assist in any way I can.

JOHN STOKES.
"Harlequin,"
Leomansley,
Lichfield.
November 7th, 1939.