The mindset often results in the implementation of high-profile projects and policies that are ostensibly targeted more at delivering a popularity boost than a tangible solution.

That’s why it is refreshing to see Katherine Town Council trialling LED lighting that, if adopted, could deliver an immediate partial solution to a problem plaguing our town and long-term respite to the back pockets of ratepayers.

If the trial is successful and the lights – which are touted as emitting a much brighter beam than those currently in place – are installed in antisocial behaviour hotspots like the visitor information centre car park and along Railway Terrace, the incidences of alcohol-fuelled violence in public areas will hopefully drop, with a reduction in darkened areas giving drunken thugs nowhere to hide.

In addition, the energy efficient lights could slash up to 50 per cent off the council’s annual bill for lighting our showground and sports fields.

If the LED lights were also installed in the town’s 916 streetlights – which are owned by Power and Water Corporation – it would make an even bigger dent in the budget and free up ratepayers’ money to fund other projects.

Either way, it’s win-win.

Katherine Town Council should be applauded for identifying an opportunity that has the potential to create positive outcomes for the community, both in the present and in subsequent terms.

It is an example of strategic leadership the Northern Territory and federal governments could learn a lot from.