Samantha McIntosh
BALLARAT City councillor Samantha McIntosh has ended months of speculation by announcing she will stand in the October 27 local government elections.
Cr McIntosh said she wanted to continue an active role in Ballarat’s civic life.
“I understand what the job demands. I have a strong track record and I have the skills and experience to be an effective councillor,” she said.
“I would like to see through to completion a number of key projects.
“If I am re-elected, I intend to focus on redevelopment of the railway station project; facilitating completion of the new saleyards complex, finding a workable solution for the Civic Hall site; and continuing to develop strategies to manage Ballarat’s growth.”
Cr McIntosh said her new career as a real estate agent with PRD Jens Gaunt would also not affect her council responsibilities.
She has also sought legal advice that her role would not create a conflict of interest in planning matters.
“Just like any councillor, if I do have any conflict of interest, I will leave the chamber.”
Cr McIntosh said she had huge reserves of energy and could juggle the demands of councillor commitments and a professional life.
“I have spent close to four years as a councillor, which means I would bring considerable knowledge and experience to the role.
“And, crucially, with so many of my councillor colleagues choosing to retire, I would bring an essential level of continuity to the council chamber.”
Cr McIntosh is standing in the central ward because she has recently moved into the Ballarat CBD after having been elected in 2008 in the north ward. She said she had spent the past four years advocating strongly on heritage protection, sustainability, event promotion and strategic growth management issues.
She said her proudest achievements were the Preserving Our Heritage Strategy, the Ballarat Airport development, and the promotion of a wide range of city events.
“These are exciting times for Ballarat, the council and our community and I want to continue to play an active role in the civic life of this city,” she said.
fiona.henderson@thecourier.com.au