BYRON SHIRE Council Deputy Mayor Paul Spooner has announced he will be running with a Labor team in the upcoming Byron Shire Council elections.
Seeking a second term on council Cr Spooner has also decided to stand as mayor.
Cr Spooner said: “After being approached and encouraged to stand for mayor I have decided it’s time to put myself forward.”
“Many people have said they wanted a choice for mayor and that I would provide a sensible alternative for the Shire’s top job.”
“As a Councillor for the past four years I have pushed for the council to build more stable financial foundations so it can invest in our roads and infrastructure. I have been a fierce champion of practical housing affordability projects that will make a real difference in peoples lives.”
Jan Hackett, local author, educator and member of one of the original pioneering families of the region is second on the team.
Joining Paul and Jan are:
- Will Constable who has worked as a school teacher and Principal across the Shire.
- Joe Dawson, an Ocean Shores local, a student of politics and government at Southern Cross University.
- Monika Wheeler who has worked in various high level policy positions including as an advisor on women’s and youth affairs to Tanya Plibersek.
- Peter Doherty Bangalow resident and regional organiser for the United Voice union.
Cr Spooner said: “I’m proud and excited to lead a skilled team of candidates who represent the views of all the towns and villages in the shire.”
“People can have confidence that the shire’s finances will be professionally managed, that the roads will be fixed and their rates will go towards maintaining the community facilities and infrastructure our community needs.”
“We want to ensure that locals can afford to live in decent, affordable housing while maintaining secure employment in our region.’
“We live in one of the best places in the world and our local Councillors need to support, promote and protect our wonderful community and it’s north coast lifestyle.”
“As mayor I want to lead a progressive and focussed council. I ask for your support as the sensible alternative that will take care of our community.”
The Labor Team is hoping to meet as many locals to discuss the important issues people want represented on the next Byron Council by holding a series of weekly gatherings across the shire at 5pm each Wednesday until the election. Details are: 10 August Ocean Shores Country Club, 17 August Bangalow Hotel, 24 August Mullumbimby RSL Club, 31 August Byron Bay Bowling Club.
Further information: Byron Bay Labor Facebook page or contact Paul Spooner 0434 771 510