As a former resident of Armidale (and a proud one) I was dismayed on a recent visit on the amount of pessimism evident in the locals. Things like shop closures, lack of interest in the real estate etc seem to be having a negative effect on residents.
Apparently there is a line of thought by some local residents and part of local council that Armidale is a better place without growth. They fail to realise that growth = jobs = prosperity = better lifestyle. In my opinion, progress or perish.
With this in mind, residents should take a great interest in the forthcoming local elections. Armidalians should elect councillors who have the right credentials to pursue the best interest of the voters.
Barry Cook,
Cooge
