Lawnmower by Lake Burley Griffin. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
While there were strong opinions on both sides, most Riotact readers don’t think 16 and 17-year-olds should have the right to vote.
The Greens have been campaigning for some time on the issue, arguing that engaged teenagers have as much right as anyone else in the community to have their say over our future.
We asked Should we give 16 and 17-year-olds the right to vote? A total of 786 people voted.
Your options to vote were: No, maturity varies and two years makes no real difference. This received 61 per cent of the total, or 725 votes. Alternatively, you could choose Yes, if you can work and pay taxes, you can vote. This received 39 per cent of the total, or 455 votes.
This week, we’re wondering whether you’re willing to take the mowing into your own hands in this wet, wet season where the grass is already towering over cars at some roundabouts and intersections.
The ACT Government says there are some delays in the mowing program because of the exceptionally wet year and the soggy ground, but is it time we took matters into our own hands to keep the city both tidy and safe?
Whether a high-tech ride-on or not, several local heroes are getting out and about and mowing not only their grass but the community’s, too.
In the ACT, the only public land residents are expected to mow is their verge – the strip of land between the residential property boundary and the adjacent roadway. And while community support is appreciated, there’s also some caution about safety issues.
Commenters were divided about whether to hop in and lend a hand with their own mowers, whether the ACT Government was neglecting their responsibilities or whether they were simply overwhelmed by the sheer volume of grass.
“Yep. Did it to our local park. Took a while but was concerned about snakes for the children and dogs that play there. Also, we picnic there too,” Erin Nugent said.
“I did it out of community spirit and not because of any ill feelings towards the mowing crew. I understand this is a particularly tricky season with rain and I understand the large machinery cannot go onto the grounds because a) they will destroy the ground b) wet grass doesn’t cut clean) c) it clogs up their mowers. I would encourage anyone who feels like they can get out with push mowers. Instead of complaining about it take pride in your community and do something about it.”
While there was understanding from some commenters about the sheer size of the task ahead of the ACT Government, others were more cynical. Bryan Doherty wrote: “Neighbours have been mowing areas before all the rain … any utilities that were sold off/contracted out will have problems … profit first …”
Our question this week is:
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