Geelong’s deputy mayor has stepped down from the position to pursue a seat in state parliament.
Seeks Liberal Party preselection in the seat of South Barwon, councillor Ron Nelson resigned from the role of deputy mayor on the same night the council endorsed guidelines for councillors who become prospective candidates in state and federal elections.
Cr Nelson will continue to represent his Barrabool Hills constituents, but said the role of deputy mayor was “far too important to stretch myself that thin”.
“This is a decision I haven’t taken lightly,” he said.
“I really value the support of my fellow councillors for electing me some 14 months ago into this role. It’s been a role that I’ve really enjoyed.
“It’s been really valuable working a lot closer with officers, with the CEO. It’s something I’m going to miss, but I need to step away to focus on my ward and my personal and professional responsibilities.”
Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj paid tribute to Cr Nelson’s handling of the role, describing him as a “very loyal deputy”.
“He provided me with a very steady support and was always available when I needed, on short notice or otherwise, so I really appreciate the professional manner in which Cr Nelson performed the role,” he said.
Cr Nelson’s resignation was announced shortly before the council approved its first-ever guidelines for councillors seeking to run in state or federal elections.
While the guidelines passed unanimously, Anthony Aitken expressed dissatisfaction that the community had not been consulted.
“(The guidelines) are minimalistic in terms of their position,” he said.
“They’re just cut and pasted from the MAV (Municipal Association of Victoria) guidelines. Certainly the 2018 and 2023 Surf Coast guidelines have a bit more teeth in them.”
Cr Andrew Katos disagreed, saying “if you’re a professional person, if you have integrity, you’ll act accordingly”.
“I’m probably uniquely placed to speak on this motion, as I have been a councillor who was a candidate who was elected to parliament,” he said.
“Back then there were no guidelines whatsoever…you just need to separate yourself and be professional, is my opinion.”
The council will meet on Tuesday 3 March at City Hall to elect a new deputy mayor.
