Long-serving councillor and former four-term mayor of Kingston Steve Staikos has resigned.
Cr Staikos made the announcement at Monday's ordinary meeting of council after recently being appointed as State Secretary of the Victorian Labor Party.
Since first being elected in 2008, Cr Staikos has been a powerful advocate for the city and particularly his Bunjil Ward, which takes in Clayton South, Clarinda, Oakleigh South, and Westall.
He has been particularly passionate about promoting social participation, multiculturalism, the environment, and the arts and been heavily involved in city shaping projects like the Sandbelt Open Space – Chain of Parks project, the Bay Trail, and the management of the Green Wedge, among many others.
In addressing the meeting Cr Staikos thanked all the other councillors and staff, community groups and community champions, he had worked with over his tenure, saying the opportunity to represent Kingston and his home patch had been a great privilege and life changing.
Along with all the capital works that have been completed, he highlighted the work council is doing in aged care and early childhood education, in addressing climate change and delivering affordable housing as things that have made him particularly proud.
Mayor Jenna Davey-Burns paid tribute to Cr Staikos and his massive contribution to Kingston and our local community.
"For 16 years Steve has been a constant on this council and a terrific leader during his periods as mayor. He is someone who has always had kindness, fairness, and justice at the forefront of his decision making and at all times tried to get the very best for our city," Cr Davey-Burns said.
"His experience, wisdom and mentorship has been invaluable, and we will miss not having him around the decision-making table. On behalf of our councillor group, I wish him all the best for his future endeavours."
Due to the next Council election falling in October Cr Staikos will not be replaced in the interim.
