Improved financial management, a better deal for the region, and enhanced customer service from the Southern Downs Regional Council were the main focus points of Peter Blundell’s mayoral campaign.
Although yet to be declared, it seems likely that Cr Blundell will lead the council for the next four years and therefore will focus on these issues this term.
At time of print, Cr Blundell had 5366 votes, way ahead of Mally McMurtrie on 2578, Jim Rickard 1964, Darryl Evans 1677, Phillip Buddle 1564, Lindsay Goodwin 1310, Kim Olsen 671 and Gina Doulis 449. About 66 per cent of the votes had been counted.
It also looks like there will only be two new councillors in Jamie Mackenzie (7892) and Glyn Rees (7405).
There is a real battle going on for top spot with Jo McNally (9881) just ahead of Ross Bartley (9880) as of yesterday morning.
Cameron Gow (8391), Vic Pennisi (8320), Neil Meiklejohn (7905) and Denise Ingram (7660) are also set to return to the council.
About 69 per cent of the councillors’ votes had been counted as of yesterday morning.
Cr Blundell believed this result showed that residents wanted experience on the council.
“It seems that the angst in the community may not be as loud as what some of our media outlets were saying during the campaign,” he said.
“Certainly financial management was a large concern as was debt levels.”
Cr Blundell said the new council needs to lobby State and Federal governments for more funding instead of relying so heavily on its ratepayers’ base.
He said it also needs to focus on providing excellent customer service and stronger cooperation amongst the team.
“I hope to bring to the table the ability to bring together the team as a unit, between the councillors and staff.”
Cr Blundell paid tribute to the service given by outgoing Mayor Ron Bellingham.
“I would like to, on behalf of the community, thank Ron for his service and wish him all the best post local government.”
Story: Rebecca Brown
