The topic of ‘Interactive Democracy’ is a recent catchphrase - the free flow of two-directional information between constituents and the elected body.  Question 5 of my survey dealt with the receptiveness of local councils. The survey question speaks only of councils’ response attitudes in hearing public needs and requirements.

Overwhelmingly the Whangarei constituency is saying that councils disregard the public voice, with nearly two thirds (65.3%) convinced that councils are deaf.  This may, to some extent, be influenced by the recent rejection, by both councils, of a public petition requesting a referendum on the desire to proceed with the Okara Park Events Centre.

Which of the following do you think best reflects Councils’ attitudes?

“Listens to the public in an interested manner” 12.3%
“Responds positively to public input” 5.3%
“Tends not to listen at all” 65.3%
“Don’t know” 17.0%