Andrew and i were fortunate enough to be at the first meeting of this today.
We are delighted that respected local campaigner Gill Moore was elected Chairman (proposed by John and seconded by Andrew). John and Andrew, once again demonstrating no grudges are held, moved and seconded former labour and Lib Dem Councillor Barry Dibnah as deputy.
The Board has got off to a cracking start, the representatives from Bricknell area challenging the sloth and lethargy of the housing function. They are making a difference already to the Housing Department, reinforcing our message as councillors that Bricknell Estate will not be forgotten.
Andrew and I were vocal in our attempts to remove trendy "right on" ideas about quotas from those not in the top priority for housing. We have enough difficulty getting deserving eligible residents into this estate without removing their chances for "quota quickies".
I took great pleasure in showing that Andrew and I knew about community engagement and were the real advocates of it. Not impressed by attempts to "promote" the meetings by well paid staff meaning putting the dates in Hull in Print I pointed out that we "get down and dirty" by putting out monthly newsletters, plus street newsletters, plus area specials all through doors - delivered and paid for at no cost to you. Now this blog!
Yes, when it comes down to who really wants to work with people its Andrew and I who do; not the staff you employ, who talk the talk but cannot walk the walk. I was amused to be told the Council could not afford it! I can assure you Andrew and I do not have budgets anywhere near the £22o million of the council!
For the record the meeting finished at 8.20 tonight. My day started at 7.20 with the Radio Humberside Radio car and a freezing journalist talking in a cold wet street about the Beverley Road Vapour baths and was non-stop council meetings/work for just over 13 hours. I make no complaints, I am a lucky man to be able to serve, but its a point to think when people criticise councillors or their commitment.
Andrew arrived from one meeting and he went on to a political meeting afterwards - it really is true, we work for you all year round (and love doing it!)
