Emma Cole.
Camera IconEmma Cole. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

We have not received financial backing: Mayoral candidates

Julian WrightEastern Reporter

BOTH City of Vincent mayoral candidates say they have not received financial backing from any political party.

The race for mayor is heating up, with votes for the Vincent extraordinary election due in by this Friday.

The position was vacated by former mayor John Carey, who stepped down in January to campaign as Labor’s candidate for the Perth electorate in the State Election.

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Councillor Emma Cole, who secured a spot on the council in the 2013 general election, said she was a Labor member, but received no financial backing from the party.

“I have been a member of the Labor Party for some time but I have not discussed City of Vincent matters with the ALP,” she said.

“I have not received money from developers; I held a launch at my home but it was low- cost and for friends and family.”

She said her campaign to become councillor in 2013 was self- funded, but it cost more to run for mayor.

“Printing flyers alone can cost about $3000; running a campaign to provide information to voters as mayor is more costly than a council campaign.”

Ms Cole said she had had a positive campaign and feedback.

“The same concerns have come up from residents such as traffic and rat running but people are also interested in the new planning reform and happy that a conversation will happen regarding underground power next month.”

Her opponent Malcolm Boyd said he had “not received one red cent” from a political party or individual for his campaign.

Mr Boyd, a South Ward resident with three degrees and six post graduate diplomas, ran against Mr Carey in the 2015 general election, but lost by 3847 votes.

He said his campaign this time was “low-key”.

“I have 100 per cent paid for my own campaign out of my own pocket,” he said.

“My campaign is low-key but I am getting out there and I have my Facebook page and I have been talking to a lot of people.

“I know I am up against a strong team.”

He said a common issue brought up by residents was traffic problems in the City.

In his campaign, he said he was concerned with budget deficits disguised by selling assets, high business rate rises and inner-city broadband black spots.

Mr Boyd said if he was unsuccessful this election, he may run again in the future.