AN emotional Gerry Pule delivered his final speech in style at Bassendean council on Tuesday night.
The long-standing councillor will not return after the October local government election, deciding to call it quits after serving the Town for 10 years.
Councillor Pule, who started on council in 2007 and stepped down as deputy mayor at the last local government election, said it was a great privilege to serve the community and hoped he had done a good job.
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READ NOW“I’ve done my very best to listen widely and to ensure we consult with our communities,” he said.
“My commitment to the people has been from the start to improve the quality of life in Bassendean.”
Cr Pule listed making the Town centre better, building a better War Memorial and Civic Gardens, providing better housing and business in the Town centre and preserving public open spaces as some of his achievements and was proud to be part of the Town’s Reconciliation Plan.
He also offered advice to those looking to take his seat in the upcoming election.
“One of the best qualities a councillor can bring is to continue to learn and to listen to the people,” he said.
“People offer intelligent and rich resources, usually freely and with good will.
“People have rights to voice their opinions and their concerns; a good councillor will always take this into consideration.
“A good councillor must be prepared to bite the bullet and serve without fear or favour and be prepared to make effective decisions for the greater good.
“I hope I have done these things well as well as working hard for the Bassendean community.”
Mayor John Gangell choked back tears and was unable to speak at times during his address but thanked Cr Pule for his service, while Cr Paul Bridges, who also stepped down, assured him, Cr Pule was not dying.
“Your service has been very valued, I’m very emotional,” Cr Gangell said.
“Cr Pule has helped me considerably through some very tough and hard times and I’m eternally grateful for your support and continued loyalty.”
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