Council elections can provide plenty of sideshow biff but seldom do they generate a genuine wider sense of purpose as we are seeing in the Illawarra.More than three years after Shellharbour and Wollongong councils were sacked, residents will head to the polls on Saturday, September 3.They will do so with mixed and high emotions; the mood at present a combination of eagerness to see fresh faces but a cynicism that the ‘‘old guard’’ and usual suspects will dominate the ballot papers.At this time, we want the democratic process to show us its best.And now we raise the ante by launching the public debate about Getting It Right.The job description for wannabe councillors and mayors ought to include qualities befitting a professional board of directors - integrity, leadership, experience for the job, team play and strategic thinking.Of course, running a municipality has drivers other than handling a balance sheet. There are community and social responsibilities. And, with a vacuum in leadership in recent times, there are genuine expectations that councillors will have to work together to bring about change for the better. Free from petty politicking. Free from internal squabbling. Free from the corruption that has brought shame to us all.How candidates interpret this mission will be critical to this generation and those of the future.In Getting It Right, we encourage men and women with the right set of skills and competencies, and those with honourable intentions, to come forward. We need modern-thinking councillors who can appreciate the past but can forge a new future.Who are they? Where are they? Their time is now.THAT’S OUR SAY...NOW IT’S YOURSWhat qualities are you looking for in councillors and mayors? What matters most at this time in Shellharbour and Wollongong? The debate is open...