Ash Bolt
There will be no change at the helm of the Surf Coast Shire Council for the next year, with councillor Libby Stapleton re-elected as mayor this week.
Cr Liz Pattison was also re-elected as deputy mayor at Tuesday night’s special council meeting.
Both will serve a second one-year term in the roles.
In her acceptance speech, Cr Stapleton said it was a great honour to be elected as mayor for a second year.
“It’s been a privilege to work with this team over the past 12 months,” she said.
“I’d like to thank my fellow councillors, council staff and the community for their support over what’s been a challenging year for us all.
“COVID threw us another curveball in 2021, but the dedication of this council and the ability of our community to persevere has been inspiring.
“Although the impacts of COVID will linger and challenge us for some time – years in fact – I’m proud of the way our community has responded.”
Cr Stapleton said the council had achieved a lot during her first term and she was excited for the next 12 months.
“Despite the challenges of COVID, our council has achieved much over the past year, from the big ticket items like People Place Future, the development of our four-year strategic plans and the appointment of our new [chief executive], to really significant moments like the launch of our Reconciliation Action Plan, releasing our Climate Emergency Corporate Response Plan, securing the final stage of funding for the aquatic centre and the declaration of a key worker accommodation crisis on the Surf Coast,” she said.
“We’ve been able to work collaboratively and achieve great outcomes for our community.
“I really am hopeful that the next year will allow me to do more of the things I love, like getting out and meeting people in our community while also working hard to help council deliver on our Council Plan and fulfil the vision of our community.”
Cr Pattison also thanked her fellow councillors and the community for their support.
“This year has been a challenging and enjoyable year, and as a team of councillors I think we should be proud of the achievements that we have made over the year,” she said.
“I’m excited to continue to represent our community in the Surf Coast Shire for another year.
“We’re so lucky to be part of this wonderful community and environment.”
