We in Tauranga should now demand a referendum on current issues that we now face thanks to political interference. 

I and many others have no time for politics of any kind – and would rather just get the job done. Democracy was won by people who died to protect it, some in society have self-interests and try to bypass the system by making lots of noise like children, in the hope that some benefits will be produced. 

The fact is that the ratepayers of any city can demand a vote on an important issue and councillors should make sure that this transpires – not decided amongst themselves alone.

As a mediator people often say “I have a problem but don’t mention my name...” but sometimes we have to speak up for democracy. 

The cost of any referendum is a small price to pay when you consider the millions being spent on some projects.

A recent local problem was solved by a man who said all one needed was common sense.

What more can one say?  We make a life by what we give. 

Ron Chamberlain, Otūmoetai.