I hesitate to own up to the fact that I used to once work in local government – until I saw the light (and an opportunity!) and got out.

I won’t attempt to defend what is not defensible, and I have many stories of waste and incompetence on a grand scale. However…there is always a ‘however’.

One needs to bear in mind that local government staff, and civil servants, are pretty much entirely beholden to their lords and masters – the politicians.

I cannot tell you how many times I have seen senior guys hold their heads in their hands in despair when, after giving clear and sound professional advice, it is ignored and overturned when it gets to councillor and committee level. For the most part, the crass decisions that are taken about how money is spent, or the decision to employ a Play Development Officer for Gay Single Parent Disadvantaged non-English Speaking Ethic Minorities (I jest…but only just!) or the appointment of consultants on mega-bucks are taken by part-time lay politicians. Of these, one can generally say that the calibre is doubtful and capacity in the grey matter department is distinctly lacking. Factor in political in-fighting and points scoring and personal agendas and you have the recipe for disastrous running of local authorities. Having sat through too many breath-taking late night committee meetings I can truthfully say that I believe anybody who wishes to vote in local elections should have to compulsorily attend at least five local council meetings. Just so they can see the bozos they have elected in action. The electorate may well be shocked and enlightened.

Yes, there are some crass, incompetent and grossly overpaid staff. But look first at their political masters. For the most part it is they who make such decisions. If you don’t like it, make sure they don’t get re-elected.

Well Andy I agree with you 100%. I to worked for Peterborough City Council, many, many years ago, like you, I “Saw the light” all the waste, the unavailability to get the right tools for the job, (Maintaining 6 cylinder diesel engines used for airation), so, like you, I left, it was like banging your head against a brick wall.Never looked back.
Jim.
Lincoln .7