PORT Stephens officially convened its new Council at a meeting on Tuesday, 22 October, following the swearing-in ceremony for newly-elected Mayor, Leah Anderson.

In her introductory address, Cr Anderson acknowledged the previous council’s longest serving member, Steve Tucker, thanking him for “all of his hard work for the people of Central Ward”.

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Cr Anderson then emphasised that “improvements to our roads, housing affordability, community input into decision making, and protection of our natural environment, remain key priorities for our newly elected Councillors and our community.”

For the most part, the inaugural session was focused on administrative and internal matters – with motions proposed to ensure council operates effectively and efficiently over the next term.

First up was a move from holding annual elections for the role of Deputy Mayor, to selecting the four people to rotate through the position, in advance.

Councillor Nathan Errington was the first to respond to this motion.

“This shows that we’re focused on getting the job done and working together, rather than making deputy mayor appointments every September,” he said.

Councillor Giacomo Arnott also voiced support.

“I think it’s good to ensure stability for the entire term of Council, to prevent the usual jockeying every single year… to extract whatever it is from one another to try and get this position.”

Not all were in agreement.

Councillor Chris Doohan pointed out that such a change in policy fails to take into account the changes that can occur over a 12-month period.

“I’m quite happy to go through this process every year, I’ve done it for the past twelve and it hasn’t failed yet.”

Councillors Paul Le Mottee, Ben Niland and Mark Watson also expressed that they could not support the motion, though it was ultimately carried by a majority vote.

The elections were carried out immediately, determining that councillors Jason Wells, Chris Doohan, Nathan Errington and Giacomo Arnott fill the position for a year each.

Next on the agenda was a proposal to move the Council meeting from fortnightly to monthly.

While the potential benefit of this was acknowledged, Cr Arnott expressed concerns that such a change would adversely impact community access.

Instead, he moved that the current schedule be maintained with the promise of a review in twelve months.

Cr Doohan chimed in with a display of good natured cooperation.

“Here’s a good start… I totally agree with Cr Arnott,” he said.

Cr Wells spoke in favour of the motion, citing his concern that first-time council members in particular may be susceptible to burn-out if the status quo were maintained.

Mayor Anderson expressed a similar perspective, adding that “the pressure of preparing for two council meetings each month is enormous, especially when you have a full-time job.”

The motion was not carried with councillors instead voting for Cr Arnott’s alternative.

Further motions were easily received, including financial remuneration for Council members, particulars regarding mayoral delegation, membership of committees and community groups, and other organisational matters.

By Lindsay HALL