Nominations open for council seats

People passionate about their community now have the opportunity to make their opinions heard as nominations for the 2019 local government elections open tomorrow.

There are five seats up for nomination throughout the Shire of Manjimup, with three in the central ward and one each in of the north and west wards, and six seats in Bridgetown-Greenbushes, with two in the north ward and four in the south ward.

Interested people are encouraged to get started, as nominations are open for only a week and close at 4pm on September 12.

“Councillors are important to local government because the represent the level of government closest to the people,” Manjimup shire president Paul Omodei said.

“You can speak face-to-face with your representative and they use their local knowledge.”

Cr Omodei said the nominations were a good way for people to have their opinions heard.

The election is being run through the Western Australian Electoral Commission and there will also be a postal vote in both shires with the election held on October 19.

Cr Omodei said Manjimup received a better voter turn out with postal votes.

“Everybody has an interest in the community they’re living in, so if you’ve got an opinion, have your say by voting,” he said.

Shire of Manjimup nominations can be lodged with returning officer Graeme Cockram, who can be reached at 0438 711 736, or between 2pm and 4pm on September 12 at the shire office on Rose Street.

Shire of Bridgetown-Greenbushes nominations can be lodged with returning officer Liz Doust, who can be contacted on 0447 277 043.

Nomination requirements include a completed nomination form that has been signed and witnessed, a single A4 page 150 word profile and a nomination deposit of $80 and candidates must complete the online induction module at dlgsc.wa.gov.au

Contact WA Electoral Commission on 13 63 06 for more information.