AMayoral contest is on the cards at Grant District Council for this year’s Local Government elections, with a sitting councillor set to challenge incumbent Mayor Richard Sage.
Councillor Kylie Boston has thrown her hat in the ring, declaring “it’s time for change”.
“After four years as councillor, I have decided it’s time for change, and I believe I offer a fantastic choice to represent ratepayers,” Cr Boston said.
“We are a vibrant community made up of many small towns and communities; over the past four years it’s been exciting to work as a councillor with the other elected members to bring positive outcomes as we all work hard together to create a great place for us to live, work and play.
“While it has been very challenging for everyone during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have continued to deliver projects along with support for business during this time.
“It’s exciting to see the airport start to thrive again.
“The new transformational once in a lifetime generational project that is planned for the saleyards is very exciting.
It’s something this 40-year-old structure needs, while also seeing some of the highest prices for our commodities across much of our primary industry sector.
“With forestry and fishing experiencing some difficult times with their markets we hope to see this improve over the coming year.”
Cr Boston said she would take an “honest, hardworking, inclusive” approach to the role.
“We need to be open and transparent with all decisions and issues that we deal with,” she said.
“We are very lucky to live in Grant District Council.
“It is such a vibrant collection of small communities; I believe we can achieve much.
“The upcoming inner townships masterplan will be an important part of the new council’s direction and I look forward to watching how this develops and urge everyone to get involved, it is your chance to have a say about your local community.
“I’m looking forward to leading the team at the District Council Grant as Mayor, always working together cohesively to continue to make our community a great place for us to live, work and play.”
Cr Boston has already received support from fellow elected member Cr Megan Dukalskis, who has also decided to renominate.
“I intend to stand for re-election as I believe that under new leadership our council can achieve so much more for our community,” Cr Dukalskis said.
“I fully support Cr Boston in standing for Mayor, as do the majority of current councillors as we believe it is time for a change of leadership in our council.
“Cr Boston is an honest candidate and offers a fresh, informed and empathetic approach to caring for the needs of our community and most importantly she understands that it is a team of councillors, volunteers and staff that achieve the greater goals of council – she understands there is no I in team and is a trusted team player and will be a great leader for Grant District Council.”
Crs Gill Clayfield, Brad Mann and Bruce Bain will also stand again for council.
Meanwhile, while Mount Gambier City Mayor Lynette Martin has already announced her decision to stand again, Deputy Mayor Christian Greco has opted to stand down.
“I can confirm I wo not be running in the upcoming council elections,” Cr Greco said.
“I’m planning to spend more time with my daughter and second baby that is due in November, and my wife.
“I will however be putting my full support behind Councillor Paul Jenner in his re-election to council.”
Cr Jenner has decided to stand again to “continue to be a voice of the community in the council chamber”.
“I believe it is extremely important to be transparent and accountable, with the utmost integrity as a City Councillor,” he said.
“I have gained considerable experience under the leadership of Mayors Don MacDonnell, Steve Perryman and Lynette Martin over 10 years of being a city councillor serving the community of Mount Gambier.
“In my time on council I have sat on the majority of council committees and one of the strengths I bring is my ability to question what is going on and why, not just to presume that what is presented by the administration is what the community needs.”
Cr Sonya Mezinec will also renominate for a third term on council.
“It has been a great privilege to serve as a Councillor for the City of Mount Gambier for the last eight years and two years as Deputy Mayor and I am committed to continuing that service,” she said.
“I have demonstrated that commitment by attending all the consultations, briefings and meetings to ensure that I am well informed, have a thorough understanding of the issues facing our community and can therefore contribute effectively to council debates and decision making to benefit our city, residents and visitors.”
Cr Max Bruins said he was running again, as he wanted to “see our city thrive and take advantage of every possible opportunity”.
“I take my current role as a Councillor seriously and am seeking re-election to continue to make informed, educated and purposeful decisions to progress the city of Mount Gambier,” Cr Bruins said.
“The role deserves a high level of dedication and I am the only current sitting member to have attended every ordinary council meeting over the past four-year term.
“As a genuine ‘born and bred’ local who has settled back in Mount Gambier after living in Adelaide, Canberra and Sydney, I feel I can continue to bring a unique and well-rounded perspective to issues and challenges affecting our region.”
