LEETON Shire Council mayor Paul Maytom has officially started his last term as mayor and a councillor after being re-elected unopposed on Wednesday night.
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It was well known councillor Maytom was not planning to contest this year's local government election, which had been due to be held this month, but was cancelled amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
This meant all current councillors, including Cr Maytom, would be required to continue serving in their positions until the election is held in September, 2021.
However, mayoral elections were allowed to go ahead as the vote is done by the shire's councillors and not the general public.
Cr Maytom was re-elected with little fanfare after no other councillors challenged for the position.
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Speaking after his election, the mayor assured the community his passion for the top job remained.
"As a council we've certainly got the runs on the board," Cr Maytom said.
"The last year has been the biggest year in all my time on this council. There has been a lot happening in our shire.
"I'm extremely proud to lead this council. My heart and soul is in this job. You've got my commitment.
"I see this coming year as a year of building."
Cr George Weston was re-elected as deputy mayor after Cr Tony Reneker also threw his hat into the ring.
Councillors chose to conduct the election for the deputy role via ordinary ballot, with their votes to remain secret.
Therefore, who voted for who will not be released to the public.
"We're all here for the community,' Cr Weston said.
I'm extremely proud to lead this council. My heart and soul is in this job. You've got my commitment.
- Leeton Shire Council mayor Paul Maytom
"I thank the councillors for their confidence in me."
Cr Maytom and Cr Weston have been in their respective roles for many years.
They agreed they would do "whatever they can" to ensure council is positioned well in the coming 12 months.