A very confusing picture is being portrayed concerning the relationship between the Conservatives and the Residents Associations in Epsom and Ewell.
Unfortunately, in most respects, I find myself in the unusual position of having to defend the latter.
County Councillor Tina Mountain is becoming notorious for not turning up at meetings.
But her borough councillor colleagues have a far worse record in this respect - indeed, ask any councillor from any other party and they will confirm this is so.
The Conservative literature at election time most certainly amounts to "dirty politics" and their tactics on election day itself last year were brought to the attention of the Returning Officer.
However, I'm not sure why it is that College Ward RA feels aggrieved that Coun Mountain has not turned up for meetings.
They are represented by Liberal Democrat councillors and have been so for the majority of the past 16 years. Never once have the Lib Dems been invited to attend any of their meetings.
The reality is perhaps that the RA feels most closely aligned to the Conservatives but when under attack, will defend their so-called independence.
Most councillors, borough and county, concentrate on doing the jobs for which they were elected rather than issuing broad criticisms in the press.
If Coun Mountain does this, she will find that the party politics fade away to reveal a healthy cross-party working relationship for much of the time.
Julie Morris; Leader of the Liberal Democrat group, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council
- What do you think? Send your letter to: letters@epsomguardian.co.uk.
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