Local government election looms

Cr Adam Roberts will bow out after serving one term which he described as an incredible experience.  And Cr Trevor Sargeant’s name won’t appear on the ballot paper, as he is moving to Young, for family health reasons.

Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor Peter Besseling confirmed he would re-contest the top job, as well as the councillor election, and lead an unchanged team of councillors Rob Turner, Justin Levido and Geoff Hawkins.

“There’s a range of skills and abilities within that team,” he said, adding that he didn’t want to see invaluable knowledge and experience go to waste.

Cr Turner said he enjoyed working with the other councillors to lead and direct the organisation on behalf of the community.  He said there was more to be done and he was confident he could continue to make a valuable contribution to council operations.

Cr Hawkins said he had found the councillor term to be stimulating.  

“I think we have made a very good start but we are a long way from finishing,” he said.

Cr Lisa Intemann will stand for re-election as an councillor.  

“I really enjoy the role of a councillor being involved in important decisions for the community. It’s very demanding, but the challenges are important,” she said.

Cr Mike Cusato said there was a strong chance he would stand for re-election.  

“I believe we have made some good inroads into the direction of council,” he said.

Cr Sharon Griffiths is considering a re-election bid.  

“It’s important to ensure you have people on council who genuinely represent you and meet the expectations of the community,” she said.  

Wauchope businesswoman Peta Pinson of Stabilcorp is running for the first time, and says she wants to be Mayor.

Voters will elect a mayor and eight councillors.