COUNCILLOR David West said he is “proud and excited” but “very humbled” to have been elected as the first MidCoast Mayor.

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“I am looking forward to working closely with my fellow Councillors and ensuring we learn from each other’s wide experience,” he said.

“Like it or not, local government exists in a complex legislative environment and it is essential our decision making is evidence based and transparent.”

After just a few weeks in the top job, Cr West said getting to know the community is high on his agenda.

“The issues surrounding Jimmys Beach and Fame Cove are critically important and I need to understand these better,” he said.

“I’m also aware solar heating for the pool is important to the community as is developing the recreational use for the riverside concept plan.”

Cr West has more than 20 years’ experience as a Councillor, a role he thoroughly enjoys.

“Local government spans such a wide variety of issues that matter to people in their day to day lives,” he said.

“I’ve had a long interest in coastal erosion, weeds management and ensuring the health of our waterways, we live in a sensitive environment and Jimmys Beach is a local example of this.”

Focusing on the future, Cr West believes priorities such as building trust and engaging with the community will result in positive outcomes for residents.

“I’m keen to show the community how we can provide value for money for rates and that decisions are made in their interests,” he said.

“We will do this by ensuring that we seek community input and feedback around what we are delivering.”

With the next round of MidCoast community update meetings kicking off this week, Cr West said he is “keen to hear from all the locals about what matters”.

“People are positive and full of energy and with our stunning environment we want to experience as much as we can,” he said.

“MidCoast is a great place to live and work and I think most of our community would be proud to call this area home.”