THE election to decide Orange’s deputy mayor for the next 12 months is set to be between at least two contenders.
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Councillor Scott Munro said he would consider standing following a nomination from mayor Reg Kidd.
Much like incumbent deputy Joanne McRae, who has confirmed her intention to stand for a second term, he said rejuvenating the CBD was the top priority.
“It’s about building retail to encourage people to shop in Orange, rather than Bathurst and Dubbo,” he said.
Cr Munro pointed out the mayor and deputy had little additional power than councillors and attendance at public functions should be shared more.
“If I was elected deputy mayor, I would share that role with other councillors,” he said.
A regular nominee for the role, Cr Munro said it was not up to him to convince his colleagues he was right for the role.
“They either see the work I do or they don’t,” he said.
“I’ve been a councillor for a number of years and done everything to the best of my ability.”
Seven councillors have ruled out a tilt, including Glenn Taylor, Jeff Whitton, Jason Hamling, Mario Previtera, Russell Turner and Stephen Nugent.
Cr Taylor, who tied with Cr McRae for votes last year before being narrowly defeated when her name was drawn from the hat, said he was “not the best councillor” to serve as deputy under Cr Kidd.
Meanwhile, Cr Nugent said he had considered running, but did not have the time “to do the role justice”.
Councillor Tony Mileto said he would consider a second try, depending on who else nominated, but expected to support Cr McRae if she stood.
“You’re really the face of Orange when the mayor’s not available and I believe you have to be committed,” he said.
Two others – councillors Kevin Duffy and Sam Romano – are yet to declare their hands and could not be reached for comment prior to publication.
Cr Duffy also nominated for the role last year and was eliminated – he was also a regular nominee during the previous council term.
Cr Mileto believed as many as five could stand for election next Tuesday, to be voted on by their peers.
The rules state for three or more candidates, the one with the lowest number of votes is excluded until only two remain – the councillor with the most votes is then elected.
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