By BEN CAMERON
No favours or grandstanding, the council’s new chief just wants to get the job done…
NEW Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Leticia Wilmot has vowed to be an all-encompassing leader over the next 12 months.
Backed six to one as the shire’s second female mayor on Monday night, the Ranges Ward councillor said her term would be all about team work.
“It is my intention to involve all councillors and, indeed, residents when appropriate,” she said.
“It won’t be just about me, it will be about us as a council.
“I look forward to having the increased opportunities of meeting the volunteers and residents from (other wards).
“By nature I’m not the sort of person who looks to be the centre of attention.
“I’m the sort of person who just wants to get on with the job and get things done.
“I will do the best that I can to ensure that every councillor is given a fair opportunity to have their say.”
Cr Wilmot agreed with Ranges Ward Cr Brett Owen’s belief that it was time for a female mayor with the right credentials.
“I do believe it is time for a female to take on this role,” she said.
“But I would never expect to be elected into this position purely because I’m female.”
Cr Wilmot said her vast experience managing people in hospitality would hold her in good stead.
“There are some very strong personalities on this council and I’m sure that there will be times when those personalities and their passions will be challenging to manage,” she said.
“I haven’t made promises to anyone leading into tonight’s election as that isn’t how I operate.
“As mayor I will do my very best to represent you and council with the respect and dignity you deserve.”
Cr Wilmot said conversations had begun in July about her mayoral aspirations.
“It was at this time that a number of you contacted me individually to discuss if I would nominate for the role,” she said.
“At this time I was considering nominating and with this encouragement and support I made the decision to do just that.”
Central Ward Cr George Blenkhorn also nominated for mayor but received just one vote from former mayor Graeme Moore.
Cr Moore was unanimously elected deputy mayor.
