Orange Mayor Jason Hamling has confirmed he will not be seeking re-election at the local Council election in September.
NEW DIRECTIONS: Mayor Jason Hamling and Mel Hamling at today's announcement.
In short: Orange residents will elect a new mayor at September's local council elections.
Mayor Jason Hamling announced today he wouldn't seek re-election.
What's next: The next local government election will be held 14 September.
Orange residents go to the polls on 14 September this year to elect a new mayor and local Council members to serve for the next four years.
Announcing his decision today, Mayor Hamling said he would continue to work hard as mayor in the coming months to make more progress on key projects.
"It's been a privilege to serve the people of Orange as a councillor and then Mayor," Cr Jason Hamling said. "To witness the community grow and prosper with new families , new industry, new business and new ideas to enrich our lifestyle right where we live has been very rewarding."
"During my times as mayor I have enjoyed the privilege of meeting our Prime Minister and NSW Premier, to advocate for our community. At all times I have had such positive feedback about Orange. We really are lucky to live in a dynamic regional city."
While ruling out standing at the next election, Mayor Hamling said he was looking forward to continuing as mayor until the new mayors is elected, and exploring new career options.
Cr Hamling was first elected to Council in 2004 and has served continually since then, He served a number of terms as deputy Mayor and was elected mayor at the 2020 local government election.
Orange City Council CEO David Waddell has thanked the mayor for his service.
"The task of being a mayor is a challenging role. It's about leading the community as well as leading the Council and Mayor Hamling has tackled that work with energy and enthusiasm," Mr David Waddell said.
"I congratulate him for what he's achieved and wish him well as he explores new directions."
