Opinion: Ratepayers bestow civic leadership

Scant appreciation has been accorded to the temporarily suspended Lord Mayor of Perth for her dispensing with the hollow grandeur of office.

Lisa Scaffidi has given short shrift to the red robes and regarded as “bling” even the chain of office.

Only for token respect of ceremonial tradition has she worn the chain at the monthly full meetings of the City of Perth council.

There’s a danger, however, that any break from our traditional approach to selecting a Lord Mayor might bring bloated egos reflected in flamboyant parading that also masks naivety and ignorance.

Only ratepayers’ votes should bestow civic leadership.