At the July Clarence Valley Council meeting Councillors voted to approve an increase in remuneration for the office of Mayor and Councillors. This is the first allowance increase since the 2013/14 financial year.

Director of Corporate and Governance, Laura Black said, “The Clarence Valley Council has been reclassified as a Regional Centre by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal. This category determines the maximum and minimum fees to be paid to Mayors and Councillors.”

“There are many benefits to the community, especially with the election of a new Council scheduled for 2021. With a more reasonable allowance being offered, we anticipate more people will be encouraged to get involved with Local Government and as a result we will see an increase in the number and range of candidates for the next election. This provides more choice for voters.”

“The role of Mayor is very involved and is almost a full time job so it is appropriate that the efforts put into this role are acknowledged” said Ms Black.

Local Government elections were due to be held in September 2020, however due to COVID-19 the elections have been rescheduled to 4 September 2021. People wishing to register as candidates for the next local government election can find more information on the NSW Electoral Commission’s website. Council will commence its pre election candidate information campaign early next year.