Liverpool Plains Shire Council has a new generation in charge, with 38-year-old Charlie Simkin elected mayor on Monday, 14 September, taking over from Cr Ken Cudmore.
Cr Jason Allan was elected Deputy Mayor, replacing Cr Donna Lawson. Both Mayor Simkin and Deputy Mayor Allan will hold their new roles for the remainder of the current council term, until September 2028.
Mayor Simkin said his focus would be on working constructively with Councillors, the General Manager and Council staff to continue delivering for the Liverpool Plains community.
“I acknowledge the service and leadership of Councillor Ken Cudmore and Councillor Donna Lawson in their respective roles as Mayor and Deputy Mayor, and thank them both for the work they have done on behalf of the Liverpool Plains community,” Mayor Simkin said.
“It’s an honour to represent and serve our community as Mayor, and I appreciate the support of my fellow Councillors in entrusting me with this role for the next two years,” he said.
“Council achieves its best outcomes when elected representatives and staff work together with a shared focus, and I am committed to bringing that approach to the role of Mayor.”
Deputy Mayor Allan said he was looking forward to supporting the Mayor and Councillors as Council continues progressing its strategic agenda.
“I’m proud to have the opportunity to serve the Liverpool Plains community as Deputy Mayor and contribute to Council’s vision for the future,” Deputy Mayor Allan said.
“We have a clear strategic direction and strong momentum.”
“Over the next two years, we will continue progressing the work already underway to strengthen Council’s financial sustainability, implement our Waste Management Strategy, support housing and economic growth, and deliver infrastructure improvements across the Liverpool Plains Shire.”
The change at the Quirindi-based council comes as councils across the New England hold their two-yearly mayoral votes this month, with Tamworth Regional Council already re-electing Russell Webb. Next up is Narrabri and Gunnedah on Wednesday, September 16, and Moree Plains the following day.
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