New four-year term Council takes oath over Skype
The Isaac region’s newly elected Council have taken their oath in 21st century style from their homes on the coast to the bush through digital airwaves.
Yesterday’s non-conventional special ceremony was conducted by Isaac Regional Council CEO Gary Stevenson PSM who swore in Councillors via video conference to their elected positions.
The ceremony kept with best practice for social distancing and reduced the amount of non-essential travel.
Mayor Anne Baker, Division 1 Councillor Greg Austen, Division 3 Councillor Gina Lacey, Division 4 Councillor Simon West, Division 5 Councillor Kelly Vea Vea, Division 6 Councillor Lyn Jones and Division 7 Councillor Jane Pickels were elected unopposed.
Two newly elected members will take their position on Council, Division 2 Councillor Sandy Moffat and Division 8 Councillor Viv Coleman, following success at local polls.
The Council will appoint the Deputy Mayor at its post-election meeting which is scheduled for 21 April 2020.
Mayor Anne Baker said she was looking forward to another four-year term of Isaac helping to energise the world.
“We are a great Council, made better by the drive and passion of Councillors I am proud to call my colleagues,” Mayor Baker said.
“I am grateful to the community who put their trust in this Council to deliver for them.”
Mr Stevenson welcomed the Councillors as they took their Declaration of Office over the phone or by video.
“While the regulation adopted by Governor in Council has allowed me to swear in our Councillors via technology, I am most looking forward to the collaboration of this new Council, which will happen regardless of them being in or out of the Council Chambers,” Mr Stevenson said.
Mayor Baker acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Councillors Geoff Bethel and Nick Wheeler.
“Thank you to Nick and Geoff for your hard work and dedication with your decades of experience on Council collectively.
“I would also like to thank all the candidates who nominated in the local government elections. We know better than anyone you do it because you love and care for your community.”
