RESIDENTS will be presented with several familiar faces, and some new ones, at October’s Melton Council elections.
Among those who have already declared their intention to stand is Toolern Vale Landcare vice-president Brad MacPherson.
Mr MacPherson said he thought it was time to “have a go” and make a greater contribution to the community. The aerospace engineer, designer and part-time farmer says he wants to stand up for rural aspects of the shire. “I’d like to offer another person for some voters to choose, and hopefully bring some good decision-making to council,” he said.
Key issues for Mr MacPherson include illegal rubbish dumping, the duplication of Melton Highway and a two-year rates freeze. In May, Mr MacPherson called for an increase to video surveillance and after-hours patrols at dumping hot spots.
Incumbent councillors Sophie Ramsey, Broden Borg, Bob Turner, Garry Stock and Renata Cugliari have indicated they will seek re-election. Mayor Justin Mammarella said he had not made a decision. Cr Kathy Majdlik did not respond before deadline.
Two community campaigners have also decided to run for council. Melton father and 979FM community radio host Simon Ellis and hospital campaigner John Southall were among the first to declare their intentions ahead of the October 27 poll. Cr Mammarella’s sister Lara Carli, a member of the Cambridge, Coburn and Watts Residents’ Association, said she had not made up her mind.
