Fourth-term Councillor Geoff Taylor has been appointed as Hamilton's Deputy Mayor, returning to a position he held between 2019-22.
Announcing the appointment, Mayor Tim Macindoe noted that there had been keen interest in filling the role from some very talented councillors and he had been spoilt for choice.
"Ultimately, Geoff's experience played a significant part in my decision. As a new mayor, and a relative newcomer to local government, it is important to me to have a deputy whose institutional knowledge I can draw upon. I also took into account Geoff's top polling in the West Ward in the recent Council elections, and his previous experience serving as Deputy Mayor during Paula Southgate's first term as Mayor."
Deputy Mayor Taylor will also serve as Deputy Chair of the Council's Growth and Economic Development Committee and head up a new Central City Revitalisation Subcommittee.
"Both Geoff and I campaigned on a pledge to do all we can to restore confidence and vibrancy to our inner city, and I will be looking to the subcommittee to connect with those who can play a role in assisting us to make our CBD a more appealing place to work in, reside and visit."
Mr Taylor said that he is delighted to accept the appointment. “I have great respect for Tim and many of our views are very similar. He will lead an inclusive Council, and he is committed to making the tough changes this Council needs. It will be a real honour to be his right-hand man over the next three years.”
The Mayor also announced the appointment of Senior Councillor Angela O'Leary to a new portfolio position that will oversee connectivity between governance and operations within the Council. She will also chair the Chief Executive Review Committee and be responsible for coordinating and chairing elected members' information sessions and briefings.
Cr O’Leary said she was excited to fill the role she has been offered. “I believe it is one that will enable me to use my skills and experience to best effect and I look forward to supporting our new Mayor and full Council team wholeheartedly.”
The Mayor indicated that further appointments to lead Council committees will be announced shortly, along with a number of individual responsibilities that councillors have expressed interest in filling.
“I am keen to harness the talents of all members of our Council team and I appreciate the very constructive way in which our diverse group is pulling together and focusing on the challenges ahead of us,” Mr Macindoe said.
Photo: Deputy Mayor Geoff Taylor
Photo: Councillor Angela O'Leary