New Mayor Ian Ross has pledged to lead a councillor group focussed on delivering for the community as he guides Horsham Rural City Council for the next 12 months.
Cr Ross, representing Pine Lake Ward, was elected to the position at Thursday night's meeting at the Civic Centre where all Councillors were formally sworn in.
Cr Ross was the only incumbent councillor re-elected.
The Telangatuk East farm manager has had long-held associations with community groups including sporting clubs, Apex, the Victorian Farmers Federation, CFA, Kanagulk Landcare and local churches. He spent 13 years as director of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority.
The 2024-2028 term will be the first in HRCC's history to incorporate wards, following a 2023 State Government review.
Councillors voted not to elect a Deputy Mayor.
Cr Ross said he would endeavour to make the next year productive and enjoyable for the Councillor group.
"Thank you to my fellow councillors for trusting me with the responsibility of being mayor. After participating in induction programs in recent weeks, I can honestly say that I'm very confident that we're all here for the right reason – to do the best for the community," he said in his acceptance speech.
Cr Ross also emphasised the importance of restoring trust and involving residents in the council's planning and decision-making processes.
"We have a big job to do. We need to restore the community's trust. That starts by listening and truly involving people in our planning and decision making. Connecting with our outer communities will also be very important."
"I am very confident that our new council group will work together constructively for the betterment of the community.
"The Wimmera is a great community to be a part of. We have a wonderful opportunity to maintain what is good about our part of the world, while also striving towards making improvements in areas where it's needed," he said.
