But last week we revealed one of the challenges he is facing.

An independent report from LSI Consulting revealed the council had accumulated losses year-on-year going back to the 2016 merger when the new council was created.

Those financial results put Armidale Regional Council among the top 10 worst-performing merged councils in the state.

Last week we also reported the options the council is now looking at under Mr May's guidance, which could include an increase to rates of 20.5 per cent.

Meanwhile, the council has named a new general manager, who will start work in January. James Roncon, the general manager at Broken Hill City Council, has been hired on a five-year performance based contract.

On a much bigger political stage, Joe Biden declared victory in the US presidential election yesterday (Australian time).

It was interesting to read the thoughts of one of our regular columnists, John Malouff who our senior journalist Vanessa Arundale interviewed the day after the election.

The UNE psychology professor is originally from Colorado and had a unique perspective.

In events closer to home, plenty of people were out and about to enjoy Melbourne Cup Day in Armidale last Tuesday. You can see all the photos here.

Thanks for reading and I hope you have a great week. If you have a news tip, let us know by contacting the Express at armidaleexpress@austcommunitymedia.com.au.