COUNCILLOR Shane Sali was re-elected as mayor for Greater Shepparton City Council at the Additional Council Meeting held on Thursday night, October 27.
This will be Cr Sali’s second time holding the position of mayor, having been in the role since June of this year following the resignation of Cr Kim O’Keeffe. Cr Sali will serve as mayor for the next two years.
The new two-year term replaces the existing one-year mayoral term, following the successful passing of a new amendment proposal.The two-year extension was introduced in response to the recent floods and in anticipation of a lengthy recovery period, which calls for stability and continuity at Council.
Not all councillors supported the extended mayoral period and raised concerns about the short notification they had received.
In Cr Sali’s mayoral address following the election, he said he was grateful for another opportunity to represent his fellow councillors, Council office and the wider Greater Shepparton community.
“We’ve just been through a major flood disaster, and I was overwhelmed by how the people of Greater Shepparton came together,” he said.
“I am proud of my fellow councillors for rolling up their sleeves and joining the people on the frontline. This flood event further united this council, council staff and the people of Greater Shepparton.”
Looking towards the future, Cr Sali said Council must continue to actively grow the economy, attract new business and inspire greater economic growth.
Nominations for the position of deputy mayor were also taken, with a hung vote reached between incumbent deputy mayor, Anthony Brophy and Cr Sam Spinks. The election for the deputy mayor will now be decided at a future Additional Council Meeting.
Background information for Mayor Cr Shane Sali and councillors can be found online greatershepparton.com.au/council/mayor-councillors
You can re-watch the Additional Council Meeting on Council’s Facebook page.
