Kristian Price to contest Townsville’s Division 4 in upcoming local government election

A long-term resident of the Upper Ross area will take on the deputy mayor in the upcoming election, campaigning for lower rates, better transportation and increased safety.

Kristian Price will contest Division 4 as an independent candidate in the upcoming local government election. Picture: Supplied.

Ready to create change, a long-time resident and former-business owner will contest Division 4 in Townsville’s local government election to repay the Upper Ross community for its support over the years.

Born in Brisbane and based in Townsville for 43 years, Kristian Price is the father of four adult children, who grew up playing rugby league, with a diverse career background in manufacturing, mining, civil works, youth work, and small business owner.

While he currently lives in Division 5, it was Mr Price’s long association with the Upper Ross area that prompted his decision to enter the race as an independent candidate last week.

He will take on the deputy mayor and incumbent Division 4 councillor Mark Molachino, who was unchallenged during the 2020 election campaign.

“I have lived most of my life in the Rasmussen and Kelso area. I still have family there and it is of my interest to give back to the community and better support their living lifestyle,” Mr Price said.

“Division 4 has supported my small business for a few years, and it’s time to give back to them.”

“I have recognised the needs of Division 4 in regards to safety, transportation, and safe areas for families to get together and enjoy the outdoors.”

Kristian Price will contest Division 4 as an independent candidate in the upcoming local government election. Picture: Supplied.

Mr Price listed several priorities including increased community engagement and councillor visibility, sound financial management to rein in costs and contain rate increases, and repairing the council’s organisational culture and increasing efficiency.

He wanted to provide more support for community groups, communicate regularly with ratepayers and return accountability of councillors and the CEO for their actions.

Mr Price said he was frequently hearing that it was “time for a change”.

“The increasing cost of living is absurd and with the increasing council rates, is just another insult to the struggling families,” he said.

Concerned about the “uncontrollable crime rate” in the area, he said safety and security had not been given the focus the community deserved.

He was running a self-funded campaign using social media to share his messages, coupled with face-to-face meetings in the community.

“I stand for what I say. I will be your voice in the council and for the people that know me, know I never back down. I am focused and strive to get things done,” he said.

“I am holding meet and greet sessions with the people in Kelso. It would be fantastic to have a chat with them.”

To contact Mr Price, visit his Facebook page or email: [e-mail]

Originally published as Kristian Price to contest Townsville’s Division 4 in upcoming local government election