Leading Lines
Croydon Council Leader Mike Fisher's Reflections
Leading from the Front
Welcome to what I hope will be the start of a regular dialogue between us through the web.
As leader of the council with the largest population in London I go to many events and meetings and in consequence get to see a large number of local people.
This means I learn a lot about their concerns and the things they want the council to do. Often they are very supportive about what we are doing. Understandably they don't always appreciate all the financial and legal constraints that the council has to follow. And not all of them are up to date with the latest news from the council.
Those I speak to directly know that I have strong opinions on many of the things that are happening in Croydon or in some way affect those of us who live and work here.
While I always try to attend Neighbourhood Partnerships and accept invitations to contribute to residents' magazines, it's long concerned me that I have not previously had a means of reaching out to a wider audience. However, I have been keeping an eye on the development of the council's website and the way in which the internet is fast becoming one of the most popular ways for residents to find out about council services and local amenities. It's a very cost-effective way of giving and receiving information and doesn't involve uninvited intrusion. No one's compelled to visit our web site. So, all told it's an ideal way for me to pass on my thoughts on Croydon to anyone who might be remotely interested.
I intend producing a fairly regular commentary as a means of passing on my thoughts and observations as council leader. I'm not doing this with any delusion of self-importance but because my elected position means I should be accessible and accountable. I'm afraid I'm not in a position to engage in a dialogue but I hope that through communicating in this way, I will be able to show that the council I'm privileged to lead really does care about what's happening in the borough - at present and in future.
