Mayor to step down

Mount Alexander Shire Mayor, Philip Schier, has decided to step down three months early. He has advised Phil Rowland, CEO of Mount Alexander Shire Council of his intention to relinquish the role at the end of August. Cr Schier will continue as a Councillor for Castlemaine Ward.

“I greatly enjoy serving the people of Mount Alexander Shire as Mayor,” said Cr Schier. “It is, however, a very demanding role with a significant impact on my young family. They need more of my time and emotional energy than I have been able to give them since taking up the mayoral role. Among other things, we have had some health issues to deal with. In devoting more time to family needs, I’d rather hand over the mayoralty to someone with a greater capacity to give the role the time and energy it needs.”

Cr Schier intends taking up some further study in Semester Two and has applied for mid-year enrolment in the Masters in Community Planning and Development at La Trobe University Bendigo.

“As well as improving my understanding of good planning in my role on Council, this will enable me to make a transition into a career in a field where my experience will be relevant and helpful,” he said.

He added, “Giving two months’ notice will allow me to see the Budget process through, as well as resolving some of the issues around aquatic facilities. It will also allow other councillors to consider their availability to serve as mayor. I have recommended to the CEO that Council should consider voting for a mayor-elect a few weeks before the official election. This has helped other municipalities to ensure a smooth transition between mayors.”