Back at the helm … Justin Mammarella has been elected Melton’s Mayor for the next two years. 57473 Picture: SARAH MATRAY
By Belinda Nolan
The Watts Ward councillor was voted in by a majority of councillors during a statutory meeting of council last Wednesday. Councillors were divided over the two year proposal, which sparked a lively debate in front of a packed gallery of spectators.
Meeting chair Councillor Renata Cugliari had the deciding vote after councillors Sophie Ramsey, Garry Stock and Bob Turner voted against the two year term, while councillors Mammarella, Broden Borg and Kathy Majdlik spoke in favour of the motion. Cr Stock objected to the proposal, fearing the council would be forced to abide with under-performing mayors for an extra year.
“This is not a motion put forward by the people. This will put the council in a position that it won’t be able to change,” Cr Stock said.
But Cr Borg said the shire had experienced turbulent times with the recent resignation of its CEO and rapid growth and would benefit from the stability of a two-year tenure.
“If councillors feel the mayor is not doing a good job they can pass a no confidence motion,” Cr Borg said.
Cr Mammarella was sworn in after a failed leadership bid by Cr Turner. The move will see him don the mayoral robes for three consecutive years.
The newly-elected Mayor promised to make sweeping changes during his term including introducing councillor portfolios and community forums.
