THE Liverpool Plains will soon have a new leader after current mayor Andrew Hope announced he would step down from the position.
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Cr Hope has indicated he will not just be stepping down as mayor, but also off the council entirely.
"My reasons for stepping down are for my own health, for my business and I saw through the eight years on council that I promised I would," Cr Hope said.
"I think it's the right time for me to step down, it's been great and I have achieved all the things I wanted to and more."
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Despite Cr Hope's impending resignation leaving Liverpool Plains with just six councillors, a by-election will not need to be called to fill his position.
"There won't be a by-election because we are 12 months out from the end of the council term and under legislation, the six councillors can see it through to the end," Cr Hope said.
"As well as that, we wouldn't have been able to host a by-election anyway because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so if everything goes to plan, the council will be back to seven councillors after the next council elections next year.
"One positive of the timing is that there is no cost to the community, which was a big part in my decision and I'm really glad it won't cost the community to have another election."
Councillors will vote on a replacement mayor at the September council meeting, with two candidates already throwing their hats in the ring.
"At this stage councillors Paul Moules and Doug Hawkins have officially nominated for the role of mayor," Cr Hope said.
"I also understand Cr Ian Lobsey may also nominate, but he hasn't officially done so yet.
"As well as nominating for mayor, Cr Moules has also nominated to continue as deputy mayor, while Cr Virginia Black has also nominated for the deputy mayor's position."
Cr Hope said the shire would be in good hands, regardless of who was elected.
"We're very fortunate to have a team of councillors who work very well together, bring their own strengths to the table and have a lot of experience," he said.
"All of the councillors are very dedicated to their community and I think whoever gets elected to be mayor will do a fantastic job."
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
