Extraordinary election called in Boddington with two seats still to be filled on council
An extraordinary election has been called in the Shire of Boddington after the shire failed to secure enough nominations to fill vacant council seats.
Four seats are set to become vacant at the October 16 local government elections.
But when nominations closed last month, only two people — both serving councillors — had put their hand up to run for the Boddington council.
Shire president Gary Ventris and Cr Ian Webster were both elected unopposed and will serve until 2025.
The two other seats remain vacant.
Shire chief executive officer Julie Burton said nominations for the coming extraordinary election would open in January.
“Electors not currently on the residents roll will have until January 6 to ensure they are included on the roll to allow them to nominate for council,” she said.
“Nominations for the two vacant positions will then open on January 12 and close on January 19.
The election will be an in-person election.
“Holding the election in February, rather than prior to Christmas, which was also considered as an option, will enable potential candidates to get through the upcoming busy period of the year.
“Many people have commitments that can be reconsidered at the end of a calendar year, and February offers community members an opportunity to plan ahead for the time commitment required of a councillor.”
Ms Burton encouraged people to consider taking a leadership role in their community.
“Boddington is heading into some exciting times with a 10-year Strategic Community Plan to be developed in the next 12 months, which is to be heavily informed by community feedback,” she said.
“The successful candidates will play an integral part in shaping Boddington’s future in accordance with the community-led direction.
“Council is a cohesive, committed team, and it is a great time to consider nominating.”
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