Pembroke Mayor Decries State Of Enforcement And Confirms He Won’t Contest Election
Longstanding Pembroke mayor Dean Hili has decried the way mayors are expected to police their own localities as he confirmed he won’t be seeking re-election in June.
Hili, who has served as a PL mayor since 2013, said there were a number of reasons behind this tough decision, including a desire to spend more quality time with his family.
“I would be lying if I had to say that my priorities haven’t changed since I became a father. I am determined to be back home at a decent hour and to spend less time on my phone on the weekend, but this wasn’t the only reason,” he said.
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“Going for such a commitment isn’t easy, especially if you are self-employed or work in the private sector. Those who criticise from outside don’t understand what mayors must face. One must understand the frustration of residents, but that is why it is important to address seemingly endemic national problems to protect councillors who must sacrifice a lot if they are to seriously fulfil their duties.”
“If we want to encourage the current crop of candidates to contest the next council election, we need to protect them. They will be confronted with several waves and must develop a thick skin in order to stop them. However, there is a wave that is easily surmountable if everyone does their duty.”
“This expectation on mayors to police contractors, the BCA, wardens, and the police themselves must end as soon as possible.”
Hili warned that he has heard several mayors complain about the state of enforcement over the past ten years and said the situation must improve.
“An increase in commercial and economic activity requires a significant increase in enforcement to avoid chaos in the streets. Those who are responsible for such enforcement must shoulder this responsibility, without having to be pushed every step of the way. Let’s leave our mayors free to work on projects, policies and developing their town.”
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