Notice of motion by Cr Kathryn Bell fails to get support

The Local Government Act provides two methods by which a mayor can be elected - by popular vote at an ordinary election or by vote among the councillors. When in May 2016 the former Greater Taree City Council, Great Lakes Council and Gloucester Shire Council were merged to form MidCoast Council the State Government declared the mayor of the new council was to be elected by councillors.

However, legislation provides opportunity for the community to decide how to establish their mayor, via referendum. Greater Taree City Council's mayor was determined by popular vote while Great Lakes and Gloucester councillors determined who would be mayor.

Cr Troy Fowler spoke against the motion, expressing concern that a popularly-elected mayor may not get along with other councillors.

Likewise Cr Len Roberts was against it. "Normally I would support the motion but I can't support this motion in this form not at this time," he said. "We don't vote for our prime minister or premier, we vote for a mob.

"I believe this is premature and should be (decided) by the next council."

Cr Brad Christensen believed Mid Coast residents should be given the choice, acknowledging "there are individuals who run for council who have their own agendas, own egos."

Deputy mayor, Claire Pontin said she did not support the motion. "The last four to five years have been disruptive. We need some time to settle down - I don't think the time is right.

"The mayor's primary job is to be the spokesperson for the council - councillors and staff."

Cr Bell's motion sought council's affirmation of the right of electors to determine the method of election of their mayor, via a referendum in conjunction with the 2021 council elections.

"I would have thought it was a simple question, a good time, to give people the choice," she said. "Choice is the cornerstone of democracy. Who are we to stand in the way of the community have choice?"