AS I wrote back on New Year's Eve, Whanganui has made some positive progress in the past 12 months. But, on the basis that he who stands still is really going backwards, there must be no let-up in efforts to maintain our improving reputation around the rest of New Zealand, norin strengthening our economic base. So it is good to learn, as reported on our front page today, that David Bennett, the successful businessman behind Pacific Helmets, is looking to spark some dialogue - and, more importantly, some sense of direction - around this October's council election. Mr Bennett, with colleagues Bernard Corkery and Rod Trott, produced an ambitious wish list for the district last year. Well, anyone can produce a wish list - it is how you actually deliver on those things that counts. He has correctly assessed that a focused and collaborative council is one significant brick in the building of a prosperous district, and is looking to cultivate a group of capable contenders for when Whanganui voters head to the polls. Too many councils have suffered from warring internal factions and representatives with personal agendas or favouring special interest groups. So we must hope Mr Bennett is equally keen to avoid any cliques on the council. What we need are people who are constructive, inclusive and happy to put their personal whims and ambitions to one side. Whether one agrees with all of Mr Bennett's points or priorities, his determination to try and do something to shape our future is to be applauded. The October 2013 elections gave us an outstanding Mayor and a couple of new councillors who were prepared to roll their sleeves up. What will October 2016 bring us? I echo Mr Bennett's call for some fresh blood, and some fresh ideas.
