Thursday, December 5, 2024

Port Stephens elects youngest ever councillor to Deputy Mayor role

Port Stephens Council has named a new Deputy Mayor with Raymond Terrace resident and West Ward Councillor, Councillor Giacomo Arnott unanimously elected at last night’s Council meeting.

Cr Arnott (pictured) takes over from Central Ward Councillor Steve Tucker, who was elected to the Deputy role in 2021.

Cr Arnott is a lifelong resident of Raymond Terrace and a Law and Business graduate with a Diploma of Legal Practice. He’s also a professional firefighter and volunteers with many local groups and community-based initiatives.

He was first elected to Council in 2017 at age 23, when he won the highest number of votes in the ward at his first election and became the youngest person ever elected to the Council.

Following his swearing in at last nights Council meeting, Cr Arnott said he was very grateful to have the opportunity to take on the new role with Council.

“It’s great to have the support of my fellow Councillors and I look forward to working together to improve transparency and deliver valued services and infrastructure for the local community,” he said.

“Becoming Deputy Mayor at such a young age shows that young people, especially those from Raymond Terrace, can do anything.

“I hope my election encourages others in our community to aim high and work hard,” he added.

Cr Arnott made headlines in 2019 when Police were called to escort the Labor councillor from the building. He had refused to leave the chamber following a verbal stoush with another councillor.

Deputy Mayor Arnott will remain in the role for one year.

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