Warrnambool council candidate Andrew Squires wants the city's ratepayers to know "your opinion counts".
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"I'm basically there to listen to the ratepayers, business people and anyone in the local area," Mr Squires said.
The hospital worker and business owner said he had no hidden agendas and would like to see general business return to council to give ratepayers an open forum for discussions.
Road safety in the city, especially near the hospital, was also high on his agenda.
Mr Squires said there was a lack of safety crossings for older and more vulnerable pedestrians in the city - the most obvious being where the buses stop across the road from the hospital in Koroit Street and people had to "battle" traffic to cross.
He said he wanted parking options reviewed across the city to assist businesses and shoppers.
Mr Squires suggested having a parking voucher for ratepayers that was valid during certain times.
It is the first tilt at council for the long-time volunteer.
"I've got nothing against the councillors that are there at the moment. I just thought there's always time for fresh blood to come onboard and get new ideas across to people," he said.
Mr Squires said he had worked at the hospital for about 30 years as an orderly, as well as conducting training and assessments.
"I have a big passion for occupational health and safety," he said.
He also runs his own business, called Westvic ProMedics, which provides first aid medical support at events similar to St John's Ambulance.
Mr Squires started volunteering with St John's Ambulance when he was about eight and more recently was an active member of Red Cross where he volunteered as a patient transport convener.
His volunteerism - which spans 45 years - led to a service award which was presented at Government House, as well as a council Australia Day award.
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