Town hall
BALLARAT City Council yesterday expressed concern at attempts by a residents’ group to attract web traffic through the registration of 10 web addresses similar to its own.
The Ballarat Residents and Ratepayers Association has registered a series of domain names as part of a new push to establish a so-called “council watch” web page.
Domain names including ballaratcitycouncil.com will automatically redirect to the BRRA home page, where residents can pass on concerns about the City of Ballarat.
BRRA president Elisa Backer said a “culture of fear” made some in Ballarat frightened to pass on information.
“We get anonymous letters and phone calls trying to pass on concerns about council - namely senior council administration, lack of action, and overspending on consultancies,” Ms Backer said.
“Many people refer to council as Ballarat City Council and logically search for council’s website using web addresses such as those we have registered. This will make it as easy as possible for people to have input.”
A City of Ballarat spokesperson yesterday expressed concern that urgent assistance to residents may be delayed through mistaken reporting on non-council domains.
“Council has spent the last twelve months consolidating our web presence so that interested parties can find us easily,” the spokesperson said.
“We have also reduced the number of domains to spend ratepayers funds more wisely. We encourage all residents to contact the City of Ballarat directly, as we can put them in contact with the right person and discuss a resolution.”
To contact the City of Ballarat, visit Phoenix Building, Armstrong St South or call 5320 5500.
thomas.mcilroy@thecourier.com.au
