Fagg’s boss set to run for mayor

By John Van Klaveren
THE LATEST entrant to Geelong’s directly elected mayoral race has welcomed more candidates putting up their hands.
Fagg’s Mitre 10 director Keith Fagg said he would make a formal announcement in a few weeks.
But Mr Fagg said a field of nominations would be healthy.
“If there are good candidates considering standing for mayor it would offer Geelong a broader choice,” he said.
Incumbent Mayor John Mitchell is the only other candidate to have nominated so far.
Mr Fagg said he was not running against Cr Mitchell but for the position of mayor.
Directly electing a mayor was a “significant opportunity” for Geelong, he said.
“If a candidate for directly elected mayor can articulate their plans for Geelong and is elected then they have a mandate for their vision.
“The directly elected mayor has to work constructively with all councillors to have a shared vision for the good of Geelong.”
Mr Fagg said he had put no “major thought” into campaign costs.
The Independent reported two weeks ago that a mayoral campaign would cost up to $250,000.
“It’ll be nothing like that from my point of view. I don’t believe in large presidential-style campaigns.
“I’ll simply explain who I am and my vision in the most cost effective way.
“There will be some costs but large campaigns are not my style and it will be self-funded.”
Mr Fagg said the direct mayoral election was “new territory” for everyone involved.
“We’re reaping the benefits of the hard work of those who held office previously. I see this as being the next stage, as a custodian of that responsibility and adding my own impetus to it.
“I’m a strong believer in under-committing and over-delivering.