Brimbank councillor Lucinda Congreve has resigned from office.
The former mayor’s resignation, which is effective immediately, comes just months out from local government elections.
Ms Congreve said her decision was made in order to better balance her obligations as a mum with young children and her full-time work.
She said it was a difficult decision, but family comes first.
“It’s been a difficult decision to resign from council but since returning to work full-time this January I have found balancing my family responsibilities with my council duties increasingly challenging,” she said.
“‘I’m sad about my decision to resign but my kids are young and they need their mum and I need them. I also need to meet my obligations as an employee – a balancing act, I know many families in Brimbank will understand.”
Ms Congreve said she looks back at her time in office fondly.
“My original motivation for standing was to represent and advocate for additional services and support for families, to make sure that we were supporting families to thrive and I’m proud of my work in delivering additional supports, such as more lactation consultants, accelerated parks and playground programs and, as the mayor, advocating for Brimbank at the highest levels of both state and federal government,” she said.
“I’m also proud to have helped lead a successful advocacy campaign surrounding the removal of level crossings in Deer Park and West Sunshine, something the community will benefit from for many years to come.”
Mayor Georgina Papafotiou said she supported Cr Congreve’s decision.
“Family always comes first and I understand Lucinda needs more time for her young family.
“I’d like to thank Lucinda for the contribution she’s made to our city as a Brimbank councillor. Her dedication and commitment, in particular her work as mayor is recognised and highly appreciated.
“On behalf of Brimbank council I wish her all the best for the future,” Cr Papafotiou said.
