Shire of Harvey meets for first time since council elections, with Cr John Bromham voted deputy president

The new Shire of Harvey council and leadership team has been sworn into their positions for the next two years. At a special council meeting held last week, the Shire’s three new councillors got their first glimpse into life as an elected member, helping select Michelle Campbell’s deputy during this term. Following the swearing in ceremony conducted by former councillor and Justice of the Peace Amanda Lovitt, Cr Campbell said her mission over coming years was to continue strengthening community engagement, make progression on infrastructure projects and maintain transparency and accountability. “The community’s input is invaluable, so I encourage community members to engage with us, your councillors, and to attend our meetings,” she said. “I am filled with enthusiasm as I take on this new role and I welcome all our councillors to the chambers, and together we can continue to achieve great outcomes for our Shire.” As an elected member for 12 years, Ms Lovitt provided her own advice to the new elected members. “When you become a councillor, you’re not part of your street anymore, you’re not part of your town anymore, you’re part of the whole Shire,” she said. The first order of business for the council was to determine who would be Cr Campbell’s deputy for the following two years. Re-elected councillors Robyn Coleman and John Bromham both put their hand up for the position, resulting in a secret ballot being conducted. There were no speeches to persuade elected members before the vote, with Cr Bromham winning the contest 6-4. Councillors Alicia Hitchcock, Tiny Holly and James Junio are the Shire’s fresh-faced representatives, with all other members of the 11-person council having previously served. The council is set to meet again on Tuesday.