Mulmur council gets down to business on inauguration day

Mulmur council members were sworn in Wednesday during a modest ceremony, followed by a brief reception before getting down to the business of their first meeting, which was expected to go on well into the afternoon. 

There was a packed house for the 9 a.m. inauguration ceremony, which saw each council member taking the oath of office, beginning with newly elected mayor Janet Horner. 

Before breaking for coffee and snacks, each council member was given a few moments to address the crowd overflowing council chambers. 

“Let me first say how excited I am to be sitting in this chair surrounded by this very capable team,” said Horner. 

She took the opportunity to thank fellow councillors, past and present, her husband Brian, who she said has been calling himself “the first lady of Mulmur”, former mayor Paul Mills, who was in attendance, for his “solid leadership and gracious handover.” She thanked staff and those who added special touches to the ceremony, including Grace Franco Lloyd, who sang the National Anthem, and Ruth Rindella who read an original poem about Mulmur. 

Horner went on to say, “To the voters, this council, we thank you for your support and your belief in the future of Mulmur. Your confidence and trust in us is something that we will not take lightly… Our future starts today. Our job as council begins today, as we build the framework for the future we want tomorrow.”

She outlined four themes that will be the focus of council: High quality and efficient service (infrastructure, maintenance, customer service and affordable policing and fire service); Controlled growth (develop housing for families and seniors, develop a vision for the Primrose business park, which has a new owner; Support small business and agriculture (enhance internet and wireless service, work to accurately define greenspace mapping concerns); Resident engagement (add new committees to work on strategic plan and continue addressing road safety).

“Together we will move through the next four years – we will embrace the future and work hard to create the vision of Mulmur that we all can support. I trust that my leadership as your mayor will help us get there,” said Horner. 

Earl Hawkins also thanked supporters and gave a heartfelt thanks to staff.

“Without a good staff we are nothing, absolutely nothing,” he said. 

Hawkins thanked Mills for his time as mayor, saying to him directly, “At times your job was very difficult. You are a good mayor.”

Like others on the campaign trail, Hawkins said many positive comments about life in Mulmur were expressed. “Many people said they’re just happy to be here, that’s really something.”

“Our job is not an easy one. Sometimes you have to make decisions that are best for the majority,” he said. “I will do my best, as I have for the past 21 years.”

Three councillors-at-large, all of whom are new to the table, made brief comments.

“I am thrilled and honoured to be sitting on this side of the desk. I am really looking forward to the next four years. Thank you,” said Shirley Boxem.

Patricia Clark said, “I think we will enjoy ourselves. We will work hard but have a good time.”

“I will do my best to fulfill my duties. Thank you for this opportunity,” said Ken Cufaro.

Trina Berlo photo: Mulmur council: Shirley Boxem (from left) Earl Hawkins, Janet Horner, Patricia Clark and Ken Cufaro.