Roads, economic development and making progress on the East Beach tip site clean-up will be top priorities for the next year, Moyne Shire’s new mayor says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Councillor Mick Wolfe, who is in the position for the first time, said the completion of projects including upgrading the Mortlake pool and improving the D.C Farran Oval in Mortlake in coming months would bolster the council’s already-strong position.
“I think we’re in for a good year and we’re in for a healthy year,” he said.
He said there would be a focus on the shire helping private enterprise develop and attract other businesses to the area.
Cr Wolfe, a Port Fairy-based police officer serving his third term for the shire, previously said he was ready to be mayor because he had more time available.
He said he was first drawn to being part of council because of his interest in the community.
“I had to do something outside my normal work, something totally different,” Cr Wolfe said.
Cr Wolfe said helping other councillors develop their careers would be a priority for him as mayor.
“My approach is probably a bit different than previous mayors,” he said.
“I’m keen to see councillors take opportunities to develop and learn.
“I think sometimes it can be a little bit isolating in our own portfolios and committees and so forth.
“As a group we will set the course, and as a group they’ll navigate and then I steer the boat.”
The new mayor said he had the chance to meet some of the region’s other mayors at a meeting last week.
Cr Wolfe said liaising with other councils and taking a regional approach to issues was important for the shire.
“I want to develop a relationship with them,” he said.
“One of my priorities is for our council and councillors to meet other councils and councillors. We can learn from them and they can learn from us – it’s a good move. We do have shared issues.
“We’ve got the old chestnut, the roads, and issues with public transport, rail, and freight.”
Cr Wolfe said advocating the state and federal government together would be more effective.
“A more combined voice from the region will be more helpful than an individual voice,” he said.