Deputy Mayor Jeff McConnell has announced his intention to run for Mayor of Scenic Rim Regional Council in the 2024 Local Government elections.
McConnell has been the Division 2 Councillor for the past three years, having been elected in March 2020.
Prior to his election to Council, his previous positions were in the Australian Army and with the State Emergency Services. Mc Connell said his experience as a Councillor, combined with eight years as Local Controller, Scenic Rim State Emergency Services, and leadership positions in the military have provided him with the skills and experience require to lead Council forward.
“What I’ve done during my term, is educated myself,” he said.
“I’ve found courses out there, some free and some we’ve had to pay for. I’ve done about four Queensland Treasury Corporation courses on financial decision making. I’ve done two years as Deputy Mayor to understand the role better and prepare myself for the next four years if I do become the Mayor.”
His decision to contest the 2024 Election as Mayor came after having residents and business owners approach him to take on Mayoral role.
“If I am elected Mayor, my term will be about leadership, respect and stability. The elected Councillors in this Region, need to be empowered to make a difference and be respected for the skills that they bring to these elected positions. My commitment is to foster their skills and strengths, bring unity and stability to the Council and to pave the way to ensure our Region is successful well into the future.
“My leadership positions within the military and the State Emergency Service equips me with the required skills and I believe my inclusive, transformational leadership style is exactly what the Council requires. I have demonstrated my commitment to my role as Councillor and affirm that I will perform duties as Mayor with equal vigour, passion and commitment.”
“I have consulted and listened with many people across the Region who are all saying the same thing ….. They want a different style of leadership in Council. I believe that I will fulfill that mandate.”
