Council set to vote on deputy mayor position
The position of deputy mayor has been decided
Fraser Coast
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UPDATE:
Cr Darren Everard has retained his role as deputy mayor after the position was put to a vote between himself and Cr Denis Chapman on Wednesday.
UPDATE:
Two councillors are making their pitch for the position of deputy mayor at tonight's Fraser Coast council meeting.
Cr Denis Chapman has been nominated for the role by Cr James Hansen.
He addressed his colleagues saying he "sincerely would like to have a go" and referenced the success he'd had as leader on various committees and community groups.
Cr Chapman said he would vacate the role in 12 months' time give another person the chance to fill the role.
He said he would like to take on more duties, assist the mayor and represent council on crucial issues including the Hinkler Regional Deal and town planning scheme review.
Current Deputy Mayor Darren Everard was nominated for the role by Cr David Lewis.
"I am seeking your continued support," he said when addressing the council.
He said it had been a difficult time for the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We need that stability I think," Cr Everard said of remaining in the role.
EARLIER: The position of deputy mayor is set to go to a vote at Wednesday night's Fraser Coast Regional Council meeting.
It is understood current Deputy Mayor Darren Everard and Councillor Denis Chapman will be the only contenders.
The move to open the position up went through at the last council meeting, when the councillors voted 7-4 to vacate the position.
Councillor Paul Truscott brought the motion before the council.
He said his decision to do so was not because he had any issues with Cr Everard's performance.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour told the council meeting last month that Cr Everard had fulfilled the role well and the position should be decided on merit.
This month's meeting is being held at the Hervey Bay chambers at night time to give working locals the chance to see what goes on.
Originally published as Council set to vote on deputy mayor position
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