A survey of councillors undertaken by The Courier on Friday, revealed at least six councillors were certainties for the election on October 22.  Among them was veteran south ward councillor and mayor Des Hudson.

“I love my role as a councillor and I take the responsibility really seriously in being the conduit between the organisation and the community,” he said.  “It’s about hearing what people are saying and not just advocating for projects but also for a bigger vision for Ballarat.” 

Cr Hudson said whoever was elected as the city’s councillors was taking on a significant responsibility.

 “We see ourselves as the capital of western Victoria and the smaller communities around us depend on us for support,” he said. 

Fellow south ward councillor Peter Innes also confirmed he was throwing his hat in the council’s ring again.

“I think Ballarat is in a really great position going forward,” he said. “But we need to have the knowledge of experienced councillors going forward. It’s all about ensuring the best outcomes for the community, that’s the key thing in my mind.”

Cr Innes said he wanted to see out the completion of major projects including revamping of the Civic Hall and the roll-out of the Ballarat West Employment Zone. 

Deputy mayor Belinda Coates also confirmed she would run again. 

"Being on council for the past four years has been extremely rewarding and challenging at the same time,” she said. “I'm re-standing for council because there's a lot of opportunity have an impact on long term change at the local government level. I've had a great deal of encouragement to re-stand by people who have been heartened by the positive initiatives I've brought to the council agenda.”

If reappointed, Cr Coates vowed to continue to focus on the welfare of people in the community and the long-term well-being of the city’s environment.

North ward councillor Amy Johnson also declared she would stand again.

“I still think I have a lot to contribute,” she said. “If I’m lucky enough to be re-elected, I’ll be focusing on reducing wasteful spending such as unnecessary overseas trips, first class flights and excessive senior salaries.”

She also vowed to advocate for more CBD parking, fixing roads and footpaths, hard rubbish collection and lighting around Lake Wendouree.

Fellow north ward councillor John Philips will also run again.

“I’ve still got unfinished business which I would like to come into fruition,” Cr Philips said. “A major project I have been working on for years is the motorsports hub.”

Central ward councillor Glen Crompton was still weighing up his options.  

“I’m undecided,” he said. “ For me, it’s really about ensuring I can do the justice to the position it deserves.”

Cuncillor Jim Rinaldi publicly declared his intention to run again in April.  Councillors Vicki Coltman and Samantha McIntosh could not be reached before the paper went to print.