WATTLE Range Council is calling on community members to have their say in the upcoming Local Government elections and consider standing as a councillor.
Mayor Peter Gandolfi said it was important Wattle Range residents participated in the democratic process and voiced their opinions in regards to the future of the region.
“Council is encouraging people to participate in the elections either by nominating as an elected member or ensuring they have enrolled to vote,” he said.
“The election provides community members with the opportunity to have their say and quiz candidates on their position on various issues.
“It also gives candidates the chance to outline their vision for Wattle Range.”
Mr Gandolfi said residents involved in community activities would be ideal council candidates, adding he hoped there were no uncontested elections this year.
“It is important that elections are hard fought and that it is a contest of ideas,” he said.
“At the end of the day the public will have their say on who they would prefer to have representing them for the next four years.
“One thing you are guaranteed with a democracy and that is getting the government we deserve.
“I think if people want to have a say in the future of our region, the best way the can do that is by putting their hand up and being part of the decision making process, whether they are a supporter or are critical of council.
“If people want to make a change, they can do so by participating in our democracy.
“Locals that care about the future of our council area and are very much involved in community activities would make ideal candidates for council because they have already demonstrated their willingness to make the region better.”
Ratepayers wishing to weigh in on who will represent them on the council for the next four years have until 5pm on Friday, August 10, to make sure they are enrolled to vote.
Meanwhile, nominations to stand for council as a councillor or as mayor open on September 4 and close at noon on September 18.
Following a two-month campaign period, voting will close at 5pm on Friday, November 9, and the count will take place on Saturday, November 10.
There are no costs or nomination fees associated with running for council.
