Many are worried the proposed retail developments within a few kilometers of Sidney will draw consumers away.
They are right to be worried. We do not have to look very far to see a prime example of this. When two popular tourist draws at Port Sidney moved out, the people went elsewhere. Buildings fell into disrepair and remaining businesses began to suffer.
This occurred under present council’s watch and if they allowed it to happen once they could again.
Richard Talbot, an internationally known retail and marketing consultant, is concerned this scenario will be repeated on a much larger scale if the town, once again, sits idly by and does nothing. As a concerned resident he recently stepped up and offered the town free expert advice, encouraging them to act quickly in the face of this looming retail threat. But, instead of appreciating his efforts, the Mayor appears to take this offering as a criticism.
The Mayor’s concern should be more to do with the problem at hand and fostering working relationships with all concerned and less to do with personal sensitivities. Here is an opportunity for the council to demonstrate effective leadership. They must set aside self interests, get off their hands and walk the talk. This council needs to lead our business community into action by demonstrating willingness to work together and the sooner the better.
Susan Davey
Sidney