ELEVEN new councillors will be sworn in this week to face a four year term that could end up being the most testing in the shire’s history.
Fundamental challenges face the new council, including a reduction in federal government funding, rate capping at below CPI, and a cost-shifting crisis expected to cost the shire $234m over the next five years (Financial crisis looms for shire, The News 22/10/24). They will also have to contend with the controversial paid-parking decision that was delayed into the new councillor’s term by the last term councillors (Paid beach parking ‘mayhem’ not over yet, The News 10/9/24). Perhaps highest on the list of urgent tasks will be the recruitment of a new CEO after John Baker resigned from the role on 24 October, and is set to leave council on 6 December.
Notable is the number of new councillors, with only three of the 11 newly elected councillors having served in the last council (Crs Roper, Gill and Marsh). Also notable is the absence of balanced gender representation with only two female councillors elected across the 11 wards. This is at odds with the last council where seven of the 11 representatives were women.
Representing Beek Beek Ward, Cr Kate Roper, told The News “I look forward to working with the new councillor group constructively for the community over the next four years. We have some tough decisions to make to provide the best services and facilities within future budget restraints, and with different perspectives. “I’m sure we can come up with good options. I thank all candidates for putting up their hand to contribute to this community.”
Representing Benbenjie Ward, Max Patton said “Broadly, my vision for the next council term is to foster a councillor group that listens to community, works cohesively, responds with common sense, and remains committed to enhancing the quality of life on the Mornington Peninsula for everyone”. “Specifically, there are too many priorities to list and most will need fact-finding for further action. “I look forward to the induction period, where I can gain a deeper understanding of the issues and opportunities we face, and how we can best address them in alignment with community sentiment and expectations.”
Representing Briars Ward, Cr Anthony Marsh told The News “I’m honoured to return for another term as the Briars Ward councillor, and I will continue to serve our community with hard work, openness, balance, and integrity”. “Our community and organisation face many challenges, but if we stay true to our purpose, why we’re here, and who we serve, I’m confident this council will bring about cultural change, focus on local priorities, and make decisions traceable to community needs. “I look forward to being a part of that positive change.”
Representing Brokil Ward, Cr Patrick Binyon said “This term, with a mix of new and experienced councillors, we have a great opportunity to collaborate and address the needs of all residents”. “With the rising cost of living, I’m committed to using ratepayers’ funds wisely and prioritising essential services that provide real value to our community. Together, we can balance fiscal responsibility with growth, ensuring a sustainable future for everyone.”
Representing Coolart Ward, Cr David Gill told The News “I hope that successfully building our community by providing quality cost effective facilities and services and assisting with grants to community volunteers is a priority for council”. “I want to see improved communication including real transparency and accountability, all essential in building trust. We also need high level advocacy to governments about our community concerns. “My vision includes meaningful Green Wedge and environmental protections. “We need improved conditions and safety measures on our roads, prudent financial planning and inclusion of industry and small business in our decision making process.”
Representing Kackeraboite Ward, Cr Stephen Batty said “I look forward to working with the other councillors in the shire and concentrating on all local issues that have been highlighted in candidate profiles”. “We collectively have a lot to do in making the peninsula a safe and friendly environment and to further encourage community engagement from residents, businesses and our many visitors.”
Representing Moorooduc Ward, Cr Bruce Ranken told The News “The responsibilities of a councillor are far and wide, it doesn’t just capture your ward, but the whole shire, councillors need to be aware of what is best for the whole shire”. “Making common sense informed decisions is paramount, ensuring all councillors are provided with accurate and relevant information to share with the community (transparency). I want to ensure this occurs over the next four year and beyond. “Financial responsibly will drive this council into the future and set the scene for many decisions during the terms. Being responsible with the rates/funds is paramount particularly during this cost of living crisis.
“These are a few of the priorities I heard from many residents during the campaign, I will continue to advocate these are many others, I look forward to working with the shire administration and councillors to achieve these and many other great outcomes.”
Representing Nepean Ward, Cr Andrea Allen said “It is an honour to have been elected as the Nepean Ward councillor representing Portsea, Sorrento, Blairgowrie and part of Rye”. “We have a good mix of experienced councillors and fresh faces that I’m looking forward to working with to steer the shire through the next four years. “Our first task will be the appointment of a new CEO which is one of the most important decisions a council makes.”
Representing Tanti Ward, Paul Pingiaro told The News “I’m honoured to serve as a councillor for our shire. I promise to work with dignity, integrity, and transparency, remaining politically independent. “My focus will be on fostering a positive culture with fellow councillors and staff, while addressing key issues with a community-first approach without adding burdens to residents or ratepayers. “I hope my legacy will be a cohesive council that delivers meaningful projects, remains fiscally responsible, and empowers the community. Thank you for your trust, and I look forward to our journey ahead.”
Representing Tootgarook Ward, Cam Williams told The News “I would like to thank all the people that helped me during my campaign, and all the people that have put their faith and vote behind me to help continue making the peninsula great”. “During the term, I would like to thin out the red tape and streamline procedures and processes for the community to access and utilize the shire. I would like to focus on not allowing the suburban sprawl into the green wedge, and improve the food bowl and supporting housing projects.
Representing Warringine Ward, Michael Stephens said “Thank you for placing your trust in me. I am committed to representing you with care, respect, and diligence”. “I will continue to listen closely to our community and work toward meaningful outcomes together. “You, the people of Warringine, have chosen a plumber to represent you. I take that as a mandate to address any ‘leaks’ in council and to clear any ‘blockages’ in council support for Warringine.”
First published in the Mornington News – 19 November 2024
