Smith mayor tip

By Bridget Cook and
CITY of Casey councillor Wayne Smith is expected to replace Cr Shar Balmes as mayor on Monday but work commitments may stand in the way.
Cr Smith, a teacher at Fountain Gate Secondary College, has confirmed that he would like to take on the top job but was currently in negotiations with his employer to ensure he could take on the responsibility.
Cr Smith said he believed Cr Aziz could also be interested in the role but was in a worse position than him to take it on.
Cr Aziz did not confirm nor deny that he would put his hand up during Monday night’s election.
Cr Balmes said having a great support group and being accessible was vital when taking on the mayoralty.
“I am most proud of the fact that when I accepted the mayoral position my highest priority was keeping my marriage strong and my family intact,” she said.
“They have sacrificed a lot and were incredibly supportive. I also stated that I want to be an available and accessible mayor and I believe I fulfilled that commitment.”
Cr Smith, the longest serving Casey councillor, said he believed Cr Balmes had done a good job but thought his experience could help smooth out tension currently on council.
“There’s been some tension on council at times, and while I think Shar’s done a good at keeping control at council meetings, I think there’s a chance for me to come in and see what I can do,” he said.
“I might be able to bring some experience to the table.”
Cr Lynette Keleher also thought she would make a good mayor but said the current make-up of the council would stop her from doing so.
“I always put my hand up,” she said. “This year I will put my hand up but I know I won’t get it, not with this group of councillors.
“It’s disappointing because I try very hard on this council. I think it would be ground-breaking to have a mayor like me.”
The mayoral election will take place on Monday night at the City of Casey Council Chambers, Magid Drive, Narre Warren at 5.30pm.