Election hopefuls offered insight into council operations at community forum

Nominations opened on Monday for Orange, Cabonne and Blayney councils after amalgamation proposals delayed elections from last year.

They will close at noon on Wednesday, August 9, but NSW Electoral Commissioner John Schmidt reminded candidates to nominate as soon as possible to avoid any problems.

“The nominations deadline is strictly enforced,” he said.

“A candidate must be properly enrolled in the council they wish to represent and must either be nominated by at least two people correctly enrolled in the same council area or ward, or by a registered political party.”

Mr Schmidt also reminded candidates, political parties, third-party campaigners, and political donors to check funding rules for the election.

“Candidates and groups must also be registered with the NSW Electoral Commission before accepting donations or incurring campaign expenses,” he said.

"There are limits on the amounts that can be donated to any registered political parties or groups, which are now capped at $6100, and a $2700 cap to unregistered parties and candidates.”

Meanwhile, Orange City Council will host a forum for anyone thinking of putting their hand up.

It will be held on Tuesday, August 1 from 5.30pm-6.30pm in the council chambers, providing an insight into what life as a councillor involves, the role of local government, the role and responsibilities of councillors, the election process and information about Orange City Council as an organisation.

Guests can stay for the Orange City Council meeting afterwards, starting at 7pm.

The forum is free with no booking necessary.

Council staff will be available to answer any questions related to the council and the role of a councillor.

So far, four groups have announced they will run, including The Greens, the McRae-Bloomfield team, a ticket led by Luke Sanger and Leiarna Dunworth, and another led by Bernard Fitzsimon. 

Matthew Chisholm and sitting councillors Russell Turner and Chris Gryllis have announced their solo candidacy.

For more information, visit www.votensw.info or call 1300 135 736.