Shoalhaven City Councillor, Natalee Johnston, has tendered her resignation from the organisation, less than 12 months after being elected.
In a Facebook post, Cr Johnston (pictured) said the decision to resign had been a difficult one.
“There are times in our lives when we must make difficult decisions. This is one that has taken me considerable time to make,” she wrote, adding that the residents of Shoalhaven “deserve better governance, transparency, and professionalism from their elected representatives”.
“I believe the time I dedicate to council matters could be used more effectively in other community endeavours where I can make a real difference. I have decided that within the current culture of the elected council, my ability to effect positive change is severely limited, and remaining in that environment is having a negative impact on me.
“So I have chosen to call it out and have resigned from my position as Ward 3 Councillor.
“I hope my departure encourages the reflection and change that is desperately needed,” she said.
In 1998, Cr Johnston graduated from the Australian Defence Academy’s helicopter training facility as the Royal Australian Navy’s first female pilot. She also works as a motivational speaker, risk and safety specialist, aviation sector mentor and volunteer lifesaver.
In a statement, Shoalhaven Mayor, Patricia White said Cr Johnston had served the community with dedication and integrity.
“Councillor Johnston has been a passionate voice on Council, and her commitment to the people of Shoalhaven, particularly during challenging times, has been unwavering,” said the Mayor.
“She brought a thoughtful and community-focused approach to decision-making, and her presence will be missed.
“On behalf of Council and the community, I extend our sincere thanks to Natalee for her service. We wish her all the very best in her future endeavours,” she said.
Council will today advise the NSW Electoral Commissioner of the vacancy requesting they commence countback of the September 2024 election results in Ward 3, to fill the vacancy in accordance with the legislative provisions.
If there are no eligible candidates, an attendance by-election must be held. If there is only one eligible candidate, that candidate is elected. If there are multiple eligible candidates, a countback election is conducted.
Information about the countback election process is available on the website: Countback elections – NSW Electoral Commission.
