Second-term councillor Scott Bannan is the new deputy mayor of Logan.
He was appointed to the position at council’s first post-election meeting on Wednesday April 10, where he was also chosen as the city’s infrastructure chair.
Leadership within council was something Cr Bannan didn’t chase in his first term, but he has since had a change of heart.
“In the first time, I said I wouldn’t be deputy mayor and I didn’t want a chair; all I wanted to do in my first four years was get to know my way around the building and build relationships with staff, and that’s what I did,” he said.
“Now that I’m comfortable, I’m happy and ready to step up.”
Cr Bannan said he brought a broad skillset to the role, which he will fill for the next two-years.
“I’ve had my own business for 25 years, as well as experience in organising and promoting events, in emergencies and disaster management – including as a firefighter, and in road and civil construction,” he said.
“I’m here first and foremost for my community and family, but now I’m the right hand of the mayor, so if he needs a hand, I’m here.
“And I’m here to help other councillors with anything they need.”
The other chair positions for council’s committees were also decided at the meeting.
The governance committee will be chaired by Karen Murphy, with newcomer Paul Jackson and veteran Lisa Bradley serving as deputies.
The planning, economic development and environment committee will be led by returning councillor Miriam Stemp.
The lifestyle committee will be chaired by Tony Hall.
Mindy Russell will serve as deputy chair to both the lifestyle and planning committees.
A budget committee will be chaired by Karen Murphy.
The budget committee will make recommendations about council’s fees and charges schedule, rates and discounts, recurrent budget, and long-term financial forecast ahead of the upcoming budget scheduled for Monday 24 June.
First-term councillor Nathan St Ledger was appointed deputy chair of the infrastructure committee.
“I think he’s a perfect fit for infrastructure because he’s got a trade background,” Cr Bannan said.
“He’ll pick it up faster than most because he’s a practical thinker, he understands relationships and he understands trade.”
Several councillors were appointed to represent council on 11 other external boards or organisations, including the Local Government Association of Queensland, Council of Mayors (SEQ), and the Logan Local Disaster Management Group.
“We have a great mix of returning and new councillors sitting in the chambers this term,” Mayor Jon Raven said.
“Our experience and fresh ideas will help build a brighter future for Logan.”
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