By Grace Jones | posted on September 5, 2019
CITY of Albany residents are being encouraged to step up and represent their community in the upcoming local government elections.
From today City residents over the age of 18 will be able to nominate for the role of councillor in the wards of Breaksea, Frederickstown, Kalgan, Vancouver, West or Yakamia, and for the position of Mayor.
City CEO Andrew Sharpe said he encouraged people to become leaders and give back to their community.
“We’re very passionate about what we do here at the City of Albany,” he said.
“There’s only a short period of time for people to nominate.
“We need good nominations to make a great council.”
Mr Sharpe said nominations would close on September 12 and postal ballots would be sent out on September 20.
“We’ve had a really good response for the past couple of elections,” he said.
“We’ve only had one situation where a councillor was elected unopposed.
“It’s not compulsory to vote but we encourage people to have a say in their community.”
Mr Sharpe said this year’s election would be more interesting to watch as Dennis Wellington’s position of mayor, one he has held for two consecutive terms, was up for grabs.
“It gets a lot more interesting in the community for mayoral elections,” he said.
“We usually have a higher turn out of voters.”
Mr Wellington, Deputy Mayor Greg Stocks, Councillors Sandie Smith, Cr Anthony Moir, Bill Hollingworth, John Shanhun and Paul Terry all have expired terms and are up for possible re-election.
Mr Sharpe said nominations must be lodged with the Returning Officer Sally Thomas by no later than 4pm on September 12 at the City of Albany chambers on North Road.
“If you’re interested in nominating contact the Returning Officer for more information,” he said.
Ms Thomas can be contacted on 0437 611 459.
