Councillors Mark Way and Warren Steel have announced their intentions for the next election, with one standing again and the other not.

Councillor Steel says he will stand again, "I have a team of five but there is no need to announce them or our policies now, given the election isn't until December."

The councillors with the CEO at the July Meeting. Only five will be standing for re-election: Councillors Brown, Rice, Watson, Steel and Reilly

Councillor Mark Way has told The Bugle that he will not be contesting the next council election, on 4 December, citing the pressures of running an independent campaign as the reason for the decision.

“Being a total independent, I rely on my family to come all from all over the place to do all the work on the polls, and they have said to me they have had enough,” he says.

“I understand, as they have backed up for two elections.

“I am still fully committed to the community and will see how I can continue to make a contribution.”

He says he is really happy projects like the bike skills park and other infrastructure has got up and running during his two terms.

“The only disappointment I have is that the Minnamurra Boardwalk is on hold, after doing all that work,” says Cllr Way.

“I would have also liked to see the cycleway to Jamberoo completed and an eco-resort at Jerrara Dam.”

He says the timing of the election in December is unfortunate, given nothing usually happens in the new year.

“Having an election in February would have been better.”

He is keen for the current Council to get as much work as possible done in the longer time frame.

“I have the greatest confidence in our new CEO,” he says.

“We are lucky to have her. I think she will lead Kiama Council and the community into the future.

“I’m impressed and support her totally.”