Items of interest from Council’s post-election meeting held on Wednesday 15 April 2020.
DEPUTY MAYOR ELECTED
Councillor Kevin Davies is Mareeba Shire’s new Deputy Mayor.
Councillor Davies was elected to the position at today’s post-election meeting and said he’s pleased to have been given the opportunity to lead the Council alongside Mayor Angela Toppin.
“I think I will complement the Mayor’s leadership style, and I am looking forward to serving the community as Deputy Mayor,” he said.
“My knowledge of roads, water and waste will also complement the Council, and I hope to share my knowledge with the fellow Councillors and lead the Shire forward.
“I know the Shire like the back of my hand, and I am passionate about the people and the opportunities,” Cr Davies said.
Councillor Davies said the new Council was well balanced. “We have a good mix of Councillors,” he said.
“We have three experienced Councillors, and three new Councillors, who together with the Mayor, will lead the community through these uncertain times.”
Mayor Angela Toppin welcomed Cr Davies to the position. “Congratulations to Councillor Davies and I look forward to working with him,” she said.
“Councillor Davies is very passionate about the Shire and brings valuable experience to the table.”
COUNCIL TO FREEZE PAY INCREASE
Mareeba Shire Council has put a freeze on pay increases for both Councillors and employees amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Mayor Angela Toppin said during this time of uncertainty Council voted today to not take an annual pay increase. “The Councillors and I felt it would be inappropriate to receive a pay increase when so many people have lost their jobs and businesses are struggling,” Cr Toppin said.
“We believe this decision is the most sensible and ethical thing to do at this time.”
In addition, the Council agreed that any staff wage or salary increase that is at the discretion of Council will be deferred until further notice.
ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING DATES
Council made the decision to hold ordinary Council meetings on the third Wednesday of the month. The meetings will be held at the Mareeba Shire Council Chambers and will commence at 9am. Members of the public and media are welcome to attend. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the meeting will be limited to 15 people, including Councillor and staff until further notice.