A newly-elected group of MidCoast Councillors are now in place following the finalisation of election results this week.
The NSW Electoral Commission declared the results of the 4 December 2021 poll following the distribution of preferences, with six returning representatives and five new Councillors elected.
Candidates elected to Council by sequence of election are:
- Alan Tickle*
- Peter Epov
- Claire Pontin
- Troy Fowler
- Peter Howard*
- Jeremy Miller*
- Paul Sandilands*
- Dheera Smith*
- Katheryn Smith
- Kathryn Bell
- David West
(*New to Council)
The election was finalised later than in previous years after the NSW Electoral Commission extended the return period for postal votes under its COVID-safe plan.
A total of 65,402 ballots were counted in the MidCoast, representing an 85.86% turnout, with an informal vote of 5.67% recorded.
MidCoast Council's General Manager, Adrian Panuccio, thanked all candidates for their participation in the democratic process and welcomed the new Councillors on board.
"I congratulate those who have been elected to represent our community and extend a warm welcome," Mr Panuccio said.
"We are looking forward to working with our new Councillors in what promises to be an exciting term ahead."
The first meeting of the new elected Council will be held on Wednesday 12 January 2022. At this meeting Councillors will take the oath or affirmation of office and to elect the Mayor and Deputy Mayor.
Councillors will participate in a comprehensive induction program, which has been developed in line with the Office of Local Government Guidelines, to prepare them for the rigours of the role.
The new Councillors will serve a reduced term of two years and eight months as a result of the 2020 election being rescheduled.
