Re: ‘Businesses ‘nervous' about an elected council' published on Sunlive Friday, March 10.

Last week, SunLive reported a survey of the Tauranga Business Chamber found only one-third of local business owners want to see local democracy restored.

While it is understandable people have concerns about the future of our city, and how it might look under a new mayor and council, the people of Tauranga must have the right to participate in free and fair elections. Despite the many issues we have as a nation, New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to live for the very reason that we are a liberal democracy.

Members of Tauranga Business Chamber are a valuable part of the community, but they do not represent the entire city. The views of business people are important but their concerns are not the only factor in deciding who leads us or what decisions are made. The beauty of democracy is it allows people of different backgrounds, lifestyles and beliefs the opportunity to engage in debate and vote on who they want to represent them.

The delaying of our council election until 2024 has also meant delaying the introduction of our new election system. Our previous three local wards have been replaced by nine new wards; Mauao/Mount Maunganui, Arataki, Pāpāmoa, Welcome Bay, Matua-Otūmoetai, Bethlehem, Tauriko, Te Papa and a Māori ward – Te Awanui.

These communities will want locally-based councillors with their ear to the ground on local issues and the skills to advocate for their community. Our suggestion to Tauranga's business leaders, and anyone else concerned about democracy in Tauranga, is to get involved in the democratic debate and consider standing for council.

Just like successful business associations, sports clubs and community groups, good governance comes from the collective efforts of those passionate and responsible people who are prepared to sacrifice their time. Our democracy can only improve with greater transparency, a more educated community and political candidates of outstanding temperament and ability standing for office.

Democracy will return to Tauranga whether the business chamber likes it or not. With so many talented and successful people in Tauranga, we are more than capable of managing our own city.

It's time to get on with it.

Sam Hill, coordinator, Tauranga Ratepayers' Alliance.