The Economic Development and Children and Family Services committees member who has been involved with the Town for six years, two as a community representative and four as a councillor, said although she would miss being an active member of the community it was time to put her family first.
‘I have been very fortunate to have my family’s full support with my role on council,’ Cr Collins said.
‘My husband has covered my absence from the family for sometimes up to three meetings in the evening each week. My children are both very busy and with my daughter now in high school I feel it is now more important than ever to be at home and to put all of my energy back into my family.
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READ NOW‘I am also looking forward to supporting my husband in his career endeavours in thanks for all the great support he has shown me.’
Although Cr Collins said her decision not to stand was ultimately based around her family, council amalgamations did make her consider whether she would be doing the right thing for the Town.
‘The workload for our small group of councillors will be increased to facilitate all of the work ahead,’ she said.
‘I think it will be imperative to have a cohesive council to steer Bassendean through the amalgamation but ultimately I do not have the free time to commit fully to this process without sacrificing my family.’
Cr Collins said she would miss several things about her role and rated being involved with community groups and working on events including Trunk art and the Bassendean Preservation Group tree planting highly.
She noted her proudest moments as watching the town grow and working well alongside other councillors.
‘The development of the town centre is a direct result of a council that have been open to work with developers and encourage the projects from within,’ she said.
‘I am proud of the efficiencies we have implemented as a council in the last two years and although we don’t always agree with each other we all respect each others opinion.’
Cr Collins added the town would experience some challenges throughout the process of amalgamations, but was confident the community would continue to work together through their volunteer groups to keep it united.