Anyone thinking of standing in the September local government election in Port Stephens is being encouraged to attend an information night next month to learn more about what's involved in representing the community.
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Port Stephens Council will host a candidate information session in Raymond Terrace on Tuesday, July 6 to help prospective candidates find out what it's like to serve on the council.
The council's general manager, Wayne Wallis, said the event is a great opportunity for prospective candidates to ask questions.
"This session is all about helping anyone thinking of nominating for council to understand more about who we are and what we do," Mr Wallis said.
"Local government can be complicated at times, so this session is designed to give anyone thinking of running an opportunity to ask questions and find out what's really involved being an elected representative.
"We'll cover the key functions of council, the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor and councillors, as well as the rules and processes of the election itself.
"I'd encourage anyone interested in nominating as a candidate to come along and find out more."
Current councillors Chris Doohan (central ward), Giacomo Arnott (west ward) and Paul Le Mottee (west ward) have each stated their intention to run for another term in the September 4 local government election.
Nelson Bay businesswoman and community leader Leah Anderson has thrown her hat in the election ring for an east ward councillor position, and in the mayoral race.
Ms Anderson will be joined on the Labor ticket by Cr Arnott and Medowie's Jason Wells who is seeking selection in central ward.
Also throwing his hat in the ring for west ward is long-time Medowie resident and 2019 Port Stephens Citizen of the Year Ben Niland.
Caitlin Spiller, a community worker and small business operator from Lemon Tree Passage, has been announced as the The Greens lead candidate for central ward.
As they have done in previous local government elections, the Tomaree Residents and Ratepayers Association will be offering all candidates an opportunity to inform the community of their platforms and promises at a meet the candidates event which will be held on Monday, August 16, from 7pm at Nelson Bay Bowling Club.
Candidate information session
- Date: Tuesday, July 6
- Time: 5.30pm to 7.30pm
- Location: Port Stephens Council's administration building, 116 Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace.
- Free but RSVP: eventbrite.com/e/port-stephens-council-candidates-information-session-tickets-158043914603
Local government election key dates
- Candidates have until noon on Wednesday, August 4 to nominate to stand in the 2021 local government election.
- A conduct of ballot draw, which determines the position on the ballot in which candidates appear, will be held on Thursday, August 5.
- Pre-polling will be held between Monday, August 23 and Friday, September 3.
- Port Stephens voters will go the polls on Saturday, September 4 from 8am to 6pm.
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