Liam McNally
Melton council will forego their annual Mayoral Ball this year in favour of donating to local food relief charities.
In a council meeting on Monday, October 10 Mayor Goran Kesic moved a motion to distribute the funds allocated for the 2022 Mayoral Ball equally across various organisations within the municipality.
Cr Kesic said that there is a great need for Melton food services and that he believes the money will be spent well.
Food relief charities in the area have been seeing an increase in demand due rising living costs.
Councilor Kathy Majdlik seconded the motion, and said it’s sad to see people in Australia struggling to put food on their table.
“Nobody should be starving in a country like australia, so I’m more than happy, and I commend you, Mr Mayor, for choosing to spend these funds in this way, where we will be able to help our residents put food on their table,” she said.
Councilor Sophie Ramsay also spoke on the topic, and said that this gesture is important in a time of rising costs.
“The amount of food hampers that are going out weekly to needy families is exceptional and the number is continuously rising,” she said.
“COVID 19 the past 2 years have shown everybody what care and compassion is all about, what community spirit is all about.
“I applaud you, Mr. Mayor, this is something that is so needed in our community.”
Councilor Julie Shannon declared a conflict of interest before the notice of motion due to her involvement in a not-for-profit organisation that provides food services in the municipality, and so adjourned from the meeting and did not participate in discussion or voting on the Item.
The amount of money council had allocated for the Mayoral Ball has not yet been disclosed.
The motion was passed unanimously.
