Besseling to stand for mayor

THE former state member for Port Macquarie, Peter Besseling, will contest the Port Macquarie Hastings Council elections for the mayoral position.

Mr Besseling said he would nominate after 'many local residents' had asked him to 'lead our community as mayor'.

"Local Government is of great importance and value to regional communities in particular," he said.

"It is seen as the contact point for most people's interaction with government of all levels through the infrastructure and services we need for a vibrant community.

"It is therefore vitally important that we have good governance of our council in delivering for our local community and just as important that we have strong leadership to drive us towards a prosperous future.

"There are many challenges in local government in the Hastings, in particular, but we also have many opportunities and I want to see our area reach its economic, social and environmental potential."

Mr Besseling said he wanted to make the most of our great potential.

"It is for this reason that I put myself forward as a candidate to lead our council," he said.

"There are many local government issues that cut across state and federal jurisdictions, from funding opportunities to the impacts of legislation and regulation. I intend to use my experience as a member of the NSW parliament for the benefit of our Council and I believe this experience and my existing relationships within our community, equips me well as a Mayoral candidate.

"I hope to see others with strong community involvement also stand for council, particularly those who share a vision of a strong, vibrant, positive future for our region."

Mr Besseling said he had resigned his position from the Lyne Electorate office.

Meanwhile another high profile candidate has entered the councillor race. Trevor Sargeant, the former council economic development officer confirmed he would stand for election in September. More on his nomination next week.