Former Geelong mayor Keith Fagg has returned from an overseas holiday to back businessman Ken Jarvis as his replacement.
Mr Fagg wrote to the Independent that Mr Jarvis, also a former mayor, was the “best-credentialed” candidate in the field of 16 nominations for the mayoral by-election.
Mr Fagg resigned 10 months into a four-year term as Geelong’s first directly elected mayor, later citing stress.
He said Geelong’s next mayor needed “effective leadership skills, senior-level organisational experience, a comprehensive understanding of governance, personal integrity and sound values”.
“The mayor needs to be a considered, strategic thinker with the capacity to effectively speak for and credibly represent greater Geelong with government and other key stakeholders.
The mayor needs to have a genuine heart for the people of our community
This is an all-embracing leadership position to which the mayor must totally devote their intellect, time and energy. It’s much more than a full-time role.”
Mr Fagg offered to “personally assist” the next mayor “as they move into their role”.
He also called for State Government to bring forward its review of Geelong’s council model, scheduled for 2015.
Residents will elect the new mayor by a postal vote, with ballot packs delivered late last week.
The by-election will cost ratepayers $500,000.
Mr Fagg’s letter will be published in this week’s Independent.
