Isabel Strutt is one of the most experienced councillors seeking re-election at Uralla's September 10 local government elections.
She has served three terms on the Uralla Shire Council; one as deputy mayor, one as mayor and in all, 12 years as a community representative.
“I think I still have things to offer,” Ms Strutt said.
“There are great prospects ahead for Uralla and there is tremendous potential.”
Ms Strutt said her experience in local government and her knowledge of the community and its characteristics would make her a good mayor.
“There needs to be responsibility and wisdom from whoever leads,” she said.
“I do believe that whoever is the mayor needs to have an understanding of local government and the statutory requirements of what is the role of a council.”
One of Ms Strutt's goals for the new council is to be approachable and customer friendly.
“It’s been a core characteristic of the council and ... if I were elected mayor, I would certainly be looking to work with the new general manager at rebuilding that very important characteristic of the new council,” she said.
“It's vital that Council has really good communication with its community and the community feels like it can come to Council with an issue.”
Council should work collaboratively with other councils in the region, according to Ms Strutt, and actively look for services to purchase or supply. They should also support and value the rural and tourism industries in-order to attract new businesses to the area.
“There may be people who wanted to start new businesses or to value add to something that is already here,” she said.
“I think to have a council that is supportive of that type of innovation is really important.”
Ms Strutt said Council needed to have sustainability and sound financial management.
“As mayor … I would ensure full information is provided to Council to allow a properly informed decision,” she said.
Ms Strutt said a council under her leadership would be strong, representative and accountable.
