CIRCULAR HEAD COUNCIL - COUNCILLOR DISQUALIFICATION

Greg Winton, General Manager of the Circular Head Council, has confirmed that he has notified the Electoral Commissioner that he is aware that a vacancy in the Office of Councillor of the Circular Head Council exists.

Mr Winton indicated that he had personally advised Mr. Darren Wilson that as a consequence of non-attendance, he was required to notify the Electoral Commissioner accordingly.

The Tasmanian Local Government Act 1993 provides that where a Councillor is absent without leave from 3 consecutive ordinary meetings of a Council, then the office as Councillor immediately becomes vacant. The Act does not provide for any alternative remedies.

The Act requires the Electoral Commissioner to approach eligible candidate(s) from the 2002 election at which Mr Wilson was elected. It is understood Mr Michael Weldon, a former Councillor at Circular Head, is the only eligible candidate. In the event the eligible candidate does not wish to perform the role as Councillor, it will be necessary for a by-election to be held at an estimated cost of $15,000.

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Further enquiries may be directed to Greg Winton by telephoning 0438 071651.

Authorised for general media distribution by Greg Winton, General Manager, Circular Head Council on Wednesday, 28 February 2007.