Mayoral candidates Logan Howlett, Carol Reeve-Fowkes and Kevin Allen.
Camera IconMayoral candidates Logan Howlett, Carol Reeve-Fowkes and Kevin Allen. Credit: Supplied/Martin Kennealey

Fresh ideas versus experience in mayoral battle

Staff ReporterFremantle Gazette

Councillors Allen, deputy mayor for six years and Reeve-Fowkes, a councillor for six, said new leadership was needed given the threat of amalgamation.

‘The forced mergers are by far the biggest issue for ratepayers and I will fight them all the way,’ said Mr Allen, who recently moved against submitting a proposal to the state government backing a merger with Kwinana.

‘Given the huge financial dangers of the proposed merger with Kwinana, should the government force us to merge, I believe it is very important for experienced hands to be on the wheel to protect the interests of Cockburn ratepayers and try minimise the costs we will be exposed to if mergers proceed.’

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Fellow challenger Carol Reeve-Fowkes said it was obvious new leadership was needed.

‘I bring forward looking ideas and action. It’s vital Cockburn residents have a mayor that champions their cause and protects them from an expensive amalgamation,’ she said.

‘We’re an award winning, financially sustainable council in great shape. Why would a elected representative support fixing something that ain’t broke and will cost us millions?’

Mayor Logan Howlett, who voted in favour of submitting a merger plan to the state government, believed his experience in the role and engagement with the community 24/7 ensured he was suited to the role.

He said he should be in charge if amalgamation happened.

‘My demonstrated knowledge, skills, engagement with stakeholders and capacity to deliver over the last thirty years at executive level in state and local government areas will ensure Cockburn gets the best outcome for its community,’ he said.