Three line up for mayor’s chair

THE next mayor of the Cardinia Shire will be decided on Monday night in what could be a three-horse race.
Central Ward councillors George Blenkhorn and Brett Owen appear likely to raise their hand for the role, with current mayor Graeme Legge cryptically saying he would ‘see what was required.’
The new mayor will be voted in by his colleagues in a public show of hands. Cr Owen said he felt he was ready for the job.
“It is my second term on council, having served five years as a councillor. I feel that I have served the community well during this time,” Cr Owen said.
“I am proud of what I have helped to achieve and I feel I am ready to take the next step to continue to serve the Cardinia community by nominating for the role of mayor.” But the absence of Collin Ross, traditionally an ally of Cr Owen, could be a blow to his chances.
Cr Ross will miss the vote to be at his daughter’s end of year Christmas concert.
“At the end of the day, family is most important,” Cr Ross said.
Cr Blenkhorn would neither confirm or deny his plans to stand, but is rumoured to be a strong contender.
Cr Ed Chatwin said he would not run.
“I don’t have the votes. Why would you put yourself up?
“The people that hold the votes get what they want and basically the four musketeers have put their people forward.”
Councillors Stuart Halligan and Bill Pearson said they would not be running for the job.
– Jade Lawton