Battle lines are being drawn for this month’s Hume council mayoral election, with one councillor declaring his hand and another saying she’s considering standing.
Last week, the Weekly contacted all 11 councillors to ask whether they would be running for the municipality’s top job on October 31.
Two-term mayor Jack Ogilvie said he would contest. He wore the mayoral robes in 1998-99 and in 2008-09.
“There are huge issues facing Hume, including the possible move of Sunbury out of Hume, the development of precinct structure plans, and huge growth. They will need a lot of input from an experienced mayor. That’s why I’ll be standing.”
Cr Jack Medcraft said he would support his fellow Jacksons Creek ward councillor. “Jack [Ogilvie] is a worthy candidate to be mayor and no one has more planning experience than Jack. He’s the best person to handle the challenges ahead.
“I hope the mayor is decided on the [basis of being the] best person for the role – not voting along party lines.”
Another former mayor, Cr Helen Patsikatheodorou, said she was considering contesting the role again.
“I believe I have the experience to represent the Hume community. I want to continue building on the achievements, relationships and partnerships during my mayoral year in 2011,” she said.
“I believe during that time I represented the whole Hume community, and I will continue to work with all communities, organisations, businesses and individuals to improve services and programs that will enrich the lives of all living in Hume.
“There are many things still to be done, and I would like the opportunity to continue this work.”
Cr Drew Jessop said he wouldn’t be standing due to work commitments.
Cr Casey Nunn said she hadn’t made up her mind about who she would support.
Councillors Chandra Bamunusinghe, Alan Bolton, Ann Potter, Geoff Porter, Adem Atmaca and Vic Dougall did not respond
