Armed with experience from his run at the Port Stephens seat in the 2019 state election and a desire to "make a difference" in his community, Bill Doran has thrown his hat in the ring for the local government election.
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Mr Doran, from Tanilba Bay, has declared his intention to run as an independent for central ward in the September 4 election.
"I still have the desire to make a difference rather than critique from the sidelines," Mr Doran said.
"My main objective for the term is to rebuild community trust and confidence in council through open two way communication and common sense decision making, for the benefit of all.
"I want to engage and gain community support to tackle issues that will support community growth, our environment and set an example for other local government areas in the state."
Mr Doran said he was proud of his state election campaign in which he obtained about 3.5 per cent of the vote.
His local government election campaign is focused on three areas. One is to develop alternative streams of revenue in which Port Stephens Council can fund works so as to not rely heavily on rates. The second is the environment in which Mr Doran is seeking explore how better to protect koalas in Port Stephens, stop cats roaming freely and introducing more regulations on jet skis. The third is focused on community growth including more autonomy for land owners and ensuring public facilities comply with regulations, laws and Australian standards.
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 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. She will also be running for mayor. Medowie's Jason Wells is seeking selection in central ward. Cr Arnott, Ms Anderson and Mr Wells are running as Labor candidates.
Medowie resident and 2019 Port Stephens Citizen of the Year Ben Niland will run for a seat in west ward. Lemon Tree Passage small business operator Caitlin Spiller, The Greens candidate, is running for a central ward seat.
Port Stephens Council will host a candidate information session in Raymond Terrace on July 6 to help candidates find out what it's like to serve on the council. Attendance is free but bookings are required online through eventbrite.
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 at Nelson Bay Bowling Club from 7pm on August 16.
Candidates have until noon on Wednesday, August 4 to nominate to stand in the 2021 local government election.
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Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
