Council candidate outlines priorities

ELECTION HOPEFUL: Former Mount Gambier City councillor Paul Jenner has nominated to again represent the community. Picture: BRITTANY DENTON

ELECTION HOPEFUL: Former Mount Gambier City councillor Paul Jenner has nominated to again represent the community. Picture: BRITTANY DENTON

DEVELOPMENT of new toilet blocks near the Valley Lakes playground is high on the agenda of former Mount Gambier City Council elected member Paul Jenner as he seeks a return to the chamber for a third term.

Mr Jenner previously served as a councillor for two terms, starting out under Mayor Don McDonnell.

He said the “competent administration” of council affairs was a matter of “paramount concern” for him.

“I have a proven record in debating and the controlled management of prudent budgets the community can afford,” he said.

“I’m positive that working together with the community, the council can deliver infrastructure projects that will improve tourism, assist with the growth of businesses and reduce unemployment.

“I want to help aged care initiatives, mental health programs, re-engage with the local health system and social services.”

If elected, Mr Jenner hopes to push for the implementation of a number of infrastructure projects.

“I would like to see new toilet blocks at the Valley Lakes playground, on level ground with easier access and facilities for the disabled,” he said.

“I would revisit the issue of 60kph zones in the city council area, organise a grant application writing workshop, look at better management of weed growth around the city and review internal and external staffing.

“If elected, I will work with tourism industry bodies to develop a Salamanca-style market at The Rail, incorporating all local markets.”

Mr Jenner said the proposed sports and recreation centre needed “complete community input”.

“Several plans need to be drawn up, including the combined complex and stand alone projects for each sport on different sites and every option would need to be costed.

“The building costs and yearly operational costs of each proposal would need to be considered.

“Once all this is detailed, it would need to go to the media and the final say on the project must be owned by the general public – not just a few people.

“Council needs to explain each step of the process to the community and seek feedback at each stage to work out its viability and sustainability.”