Jack Kowarzik has been elected Mayor of Cardinia Shire Council, with Councillor Alanna Pomeroy to serve as Deputy Mayor for a one-year term.
Speaking on his election for a second term, Mayor Kowarzik said he was grateful to serve for the next 12 months and thanked his fellow councillors and family for their support.
“My focus for the next 12 months is to engage with and listen to our community,” he said.
“Ensuring Council is visible and accessible in what it does is a key priority of mine, and we need to do a better job in explaining the complexities and challenges of the work we do, the issues we face as a Shire and the towns we represent.”
“I’m looking forward to creating a 4-year Council Plan with our CEO and dedicated officers, one that balances the wants and needs of our community and working collectively to ensure this is achieved.”
Deputy Mayor Pomeroy expressed her eagerness to work alongside the Council group for the term ahead and thanked her family, the Council group and Council staff for their support.
“Our community looks to us, not just for action but for strong advocacy, sound governance, and leadership that builds trust and delivers tangible results” she said.
“My focus will remain on supporting the Mayor and Councillors, ensuring our decisions reflect the best interest of our community, balancing a long-term strategic vision with practical and effective outcomes.”
“Cardinia shire is a diverse and growing community, and we must embrace new ideas and approaches to meet the needs of today while planning for the future.”
Council CEO, Carol Jeffs congratulated the Councillors on their appointment to Mayor and Deputy Mayor and extended the welcome to the new Council group.
“The past few weeks have been an exciting time for our incoming Council group, who have been actively involved in a thorough welcome program,” said Mr Jeffs.
“Under the guidance of our Mayor Cr Kowarzik and Deputy Mayor Cr Pomeroy, we look forward to working collaboratively with the Council group for an exciting term ahead.”
The first Town Planning Meeting will be held on Monday 9 December and Council meeting on Monday 16 December.
