Highly regarded and respected local Alison Conn will be among the names when the final nominations are announced for the local government elections this afternoon and she’ll just make the deadline of 2pm.
“Yes I will be there for the battlers in the community. It is one of the important reasons I am taking a proactive stance about this election and our future to help those less fortunate,” the manager of the Wellington Information and Neighbourhood Centre said.
“I am seeking election because I want the council to be pro active for all. This is a fabulous town and we can drive success through bringing all our services together with local government as one of the important components.”
Ms Conn cites a failure of this in previous council debate and believes Wellington can also participate in better methods of services. “I feel there are different methods of investments which are important for the community. We have a great future here, we can do it together,” she said.
Ms Conn is among a number of new names who are certain to make the 2012 decision one of the most interesting in recent years.
A team of four including Policeman Rod Buhr, farmer and race club secretary Ian Giffin, printer Barry Jeffrey and a former Lake Burrendong administrator Graham Cross say they are getting a very good response from the community and support Ms Conn.
“We welcome these candidates and we believe with up to 15 names the decision for change will be crucial for our LGA’s future,” Sergeant Rod Buhr said.
The Times also understands Pip Smith known for her work in the community at St Mary’s Catholic Church and School and wife of 2011 NSW Farmer of the Year Norm Smith will seek election today after much pondering over the LGA’s future.
“I want people to engage with our elected officials on a more connected basis,’’ Mrs Smith said.
“This a great town with a strong rural area and I want to get the positive message about Wellington out there and change people’s perception and attitudes. It will be a great learning curve.
“It is the right time to be part of this process. I want to learn and also listen to people’s thoughts.
“New faces are important on the council to set a new future for our community. Both myself and Alison believe this.”
The Times also understand there may be two groups when the election candidates are ratified making this the most competitive local government election in decades.
The final names are expected to be boosted by a candidate in his thirties and also a former councillor who will seek re-election today. The nominations for candidates will be completed by early afternoon and a draw held later.
The Times also understand the current mayor Cr Anne Jones, former mayor Mark Griggs, Cr David Grant and Cr Shirley Drysdale will seek re election when nominations close today.