ERGON scheduler Greg Campbell, 40, wants to be the Cloncurry mayor and to see the shire “moving forward”.
He believes that his local government knowledge as a former deputy mayor, a position held between 2008-12 in mayor Andrew Daniels’ first term, will be invaluable in the chamber considering the retirement of Bob McDonald.
Mr Campbell was the former council chair of works which meant he covered roads, engineering, and waste.
“One thing we’ve struggled with is staff turnover and staff having to be Mr Fix Its as well,” Mr Campbell said.
He believed his practical knowledge in utilities will allow him to better support these council staff.
It could be a tough few years for the shire’s economy, he said.
Although MMG’s Dugald River project was a “positive light” he did not foresee the shire having an increased number of ratepayers.
Mr Campbell wanted to ensure that council did not increase its spending so that burdening the rate payer even further was avoided.
“I would find it hard to justify any significant rate rises,” he said.
“We have got to ensure local businesses are supported.
“Most costs are rising so I don’t want to add extra pressure on businesses and houses by passing costs.”
Upgrades to the showgrounds as well as to the airport were welcomed.
Sealing of rural roads would continue to be a priority for Mr Campbell.
The town was in a stable position when it came to water supply because of Chinaman Creek and the weir, but more work was needed.
“We have got some good raw water sources now so we have got work to do with treatment and the distribution side.
“There’s work to be done on Dajarra’s water supply to make it more resilient.”
Mr Campbell acknowledged another dam was needed. “At the moment what the town has is adequate but it does not allow for any industry growth, any future mining growth, doesn’t allow any future agricultural opportunity.”
