Commissioner Mission Statement
Andrew Jessopp
This mission statement reflects the Commissioner’s personal priorities, values, and approach to serving the Braddan community. It provides an overview of the principles that guide their decision-making and their aspirations for the parish during their term of office.
“As there was an uncontested election for the members of the Board of Braddan Commissioners it was agreed by the new board members to provide a brief statement on their individual aspirations for the authority and personal priorities over the next 4 years.
Dealing with the near future, it is my wish that the authority leads from the front in regards to any proposals to reform the way in which local authorities provide services to their local communities. The importance and role of local authorities has dramatically changed in the last 20 years but many smaller authorities have not kept pace with that change and it is incumbent on the larger authorities to assist them in meeting their obligations now and in the future.
However, the changes must be led by the local authorities and not dictated by central government, so it is essential the proposed new clauses in the Local Government Amendment Bill are either removed entirely or watered down to the satisfaction of the local authorities.
As part of this process I would like to see Braddan become a district authority.
I also want to make sure the commissioners are properly listened to in the setting of proposed new speed limits on the road network in the parish. Any new limits need to be practical, self enforcing and evidence based.
It is a well known fact the clerk to the commission will be retiring this year and it is vital that a highly competent replacement is found so the smooth workings of the authority are not undermined in any way.
The review of the Strategic Plan is well under way and the commissioners must make sure their views are heard and, in particular, in regards to the formation of a more substantial settlement boundary to ensure the built up parts of Braddan are designated as being separate and distinct from Douglas. However, protection of the rural areas of Braddan needs to be enhanced to prevent coalition of settlements.
Longer term, I wish to see the financial stability of the authority improved and ways found to lower the costs of running the authority.
It is also very important that the age profile of the authority’s housing stock continues to improve by the investment in replacement new properties.
And lastly, I hope the public’s interest in standing for election to their local authority can be invigorated during what I expect to be my last term of office.”
