The next Brimbank council needs some “fresh faces”, according to Local Government Minister Natalie Hutchins.
In an interview with Star Weekly, Ms Hutchins said the last council “bore the wrath” of some actions and decisions of previous councils.
“There were some really good new people that were looking to … change the direction of council, and didn’t get given a chance,” she said.
Councillors will return to Brimbank following municipal elections next October, seven years after all councillors were sacked in 2009 and replaced with administrators.
Ms Hutchins refused to comment on the possible return of previous councillors mentioned in the Ombudsman’s Report of 2009.
“I’m not going to comment on anybody individually; everybody has a right to stand,” she said.
“It’s a time for fresh faces.
“I just want to see a big range of candidates running, and I want to see a diverse range of candidates running.”
‘Time for return to democracy’
The minister disagreed with community concerns that the next election would be corrupted by outside political influences.
“Anybody can raise concerns, but I really think it’s time for a return to democracy,” she said.
“This is the single longest [time] a council administration has been in, and it’s time for people to be able to have a vote.
“It should sharpen people’s view on who they vote for,” she said.
“I’m quite excited about the fact Brimbank is returning to democracy.”
She admitted, however, there are potential problems if political parties choose to endorse candidates.
“I know of a few ALP members who don’t want to be endorsed as Labor candidates,” she said.
Star Weekly asked former councillors Marion Martin, Heidi Seitz, Stuart Miller and Maria Kiselis about a possible return to council, but did not receive a reply.
The council will run more information sessions for potential councillors on March 3, 7, 17 and 21 next year.
More than 70 people attended four sessions in November.
