JASON Hamling will be Orange's next mayor after preferences were finalised on Monday.
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Cr Hamling had held a narrow advantage over fellow councillor Tony Mileto since counting began on polling day but was yesterday confirmed as Orange's second popularly elected mayor, taking over from Cr Reg Kidd.
He amassed 7089 first preference votes compared to Cr Mileto's 6602. But with preferences, Cr Hamling amassed the absolute majority which was 12,178.
"It's just a crazy feeling," Cr Hamling said yesterday. "It's a strange feeling knowing that people have put their trust in you, I'm going to do the best I can."
Cr Hamling said finishing the $25million Jack Brabham Sporting Stadium project was his first goal.
"I want to go full steam ahead with that," he said.
Cr Hamling was also the lead candidate on the Group H ticket. By securing the mayor seat on the 12-person council, the second candidate on the H ticket Tammy Greenhalgh, will also be elected to the council. Number three Sarah McGregor could also gain a spot.
"I want to thank my ticket mates," Cr Hamling said. "They all came for the ride with me."
He also thanked his campaign volunteers and his family and friends for their support.
"Especially my wife, Melissa," he said.
Cr Hamling is Orange born and bred, having gone to Glenroi Public School and then the Canobolas High School.
"I love Orange and I don't like it when people put Orange down," he said.
Cr Kidd did not contest this election.
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