Page 509 of 606
Page 509 of 606
Page 509 of 606
436
3.
4.
PROVISIONAL URBAN COUNCIL
functions now under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Services and Public Health Ordinance.
Opinions were expressed that the Government is forging ahead unilaterally with the various measures to abolish the Council. A long serving Councillor quoted the example of the formation of Regional Council 15 years ago when the then Urban Council objected strongly on the grounds that two different Municipal Councils in a small place like Hong Kong would certainly create differences in policy, duplication of staff, overlapping of functions and confused division of labour. The Government at that time insisted to go ahead with this proposal despite strong opposition from the Council. Now, the Government is turning around to abolish the Councils, admitting their past error in judgment. As Hong Kong citizens we do earnestly hope that the Government will not commit another mistake which may necessitate remedy in 15 years time.
Unjustified criticism of the Council and Council image
There has been unjustified criticism that the Council is a second class Council, that the Council only engaged in empty debates and contentions, and that important issues are handled in over politicized manner. This unfair allegation is further fueled by some media in selectively reporting bad news in a sensational manner, misquoting facts, engaging in paparazzi style in their pursuit of reporting news.
In a fully elected body like the Urban Council, party politics are bound to come in. In the present days of accountability, issues are debated much more fully before a decision is taken. Furthermore, with nearly all meetings open to public for transparency, whatever transpired or discussed in meetings are readily known to the public without being screened. Hence, a distorted image is given to the Council, misleading the public of bad image for the Urban Council.
In reality, all matters of the Council proceeded smoothly and were managed in a professional and efficient manner. Our Council deserved higher credits for what we have achieved and our image should not be unfairly smeared or tarnished only because of occasional heated debates on some of the Council's issues.
Financial constraint of the Council
In this existing triennium negotiation with the Government on rates revenue allocated to Urban Council, the Council's budget is forecast to result in a substantial reduction. The present slowdown in the property market further decreased the actual amount of property rates collectable, and hence, resulting in a further reduction in our rates revenue. In view of this, the Council has been very cautious in planning our budget, exploring additional means for increasing revenues, considering trimming down
Page 509 of 606