Following a recount,, I have been confirmed as Mayor for the upcoming term of Glamorgan Spring Bay Council. I am so grateful to everyone who voted for me particularly the 1550 people who marked 1 in the Mayoral first preference box. With some returning Councillors and three new councillors, the future is looking very bright for Glamorgan Spring Bay.
Clr Michael Symons was overwhelmingly voted in as Deputy Mayor and I could not be more delighted to have him in that role.
Former Deputy Mayor Jenny Woods returns as a Councillor and will bring her extended experience and governance skill to the Chamber. Former Mayor Robert Young and Clr Rob Churchill round out the returning councillors.
Three incoming Councillors with no local government experience in Neil (Teddy) Edwards (Orford), Carole McQueeney (Orford) and Greg Luck (Swansea) have been elected. All three Councillors bring to the Chamber a broad skill set of business, governance and life experiences that will be invaluable to the debate. Of course, it will be a steep learning curve in terms of the legislation and other governance matters as well as becoming familiar with the many issues that come to council from time to time.
I have said consistently that being a Councillor is not an easy gig. It can be distressing and mentally challenging. An election can be even worse! It is easy to abuse those in public office. All Councillors put up their hand to take on an often thankless role and sometimes controversial one so any form of abuse is not deserved.
We were elected by the community to serve the community but we can only do that with clear and concise communication. The incoming Council is committed to opening lines of communication and I would encourage everyone to communicate with the Councillor of your choice if you have an issue. Talk to us. One of my favourite sayings in relation to complaints is 'kicking the gravel in the carpark'. It means that people will often do just that when amongst others and not actually raise the matter with those they may have an issue. Kicking the gravel in the carpark rarely achieves anything other than angst for either or both parties so let's talk!
I have no doubt that the new Council will have spirited debates but rest assured the best interests of the ratepayers and residents will always be at the forefront of minds.
Thank you once again to everyone who voted in this election. Your support of all the candidates who were elected to Glamorgan Spring Bay is very much appreciated.
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