WANGARATTA councillor Paul O’Brien has branded the dithering on the Everton cenotaph saga like a scene straight from Yes Minister.
He showed his frustration on Tuesday night after another debate when a cheaper and quicker resolution to the issue failed on the casting vote of mayor Rozi Parisotto.
The cenotaph, close to the Great Alpine Road on White Post Road, is an accident waiting to happen.
The council agreed in November to spend about $100,000 erecting 20 bollards on the south and east sides of the memorial.
But community feedback favours a realignment of White Post Road to improve safety.
Cr O’Brien backed a move by Cr Julian Fidge to erect three bollards on the south and east sides with another on the south-eastern corner.
But the council dumped the 20-bollard plan for the realignment of White Post Road — a two-year project.
“I don’t want to be funny, but I thought I was listening to Yes Minister,” Cr O’Brien said.
“The games here tonight are just shocking.
“It is disappointing for us as councillors to be part of this. It’s a joke.”
Cr Fidge said the 20 bollards were overkill and not what the local community wanted.
“We only need to spend $10,000 to $15,000,” he said.
“I am furious this is still before council.
“If we put in 20 bollards we will turn it into an eyesore.”
The community opposes moving the cenotaph which is under powerlines.
Cr Fidge’s plan was opposed by Cr Tammy Atkins and Cr Don Joyce, who said VicRoads said 20 bollards were required.
The council will talk to the community again about realigning the road.