IF Bendigo residents want to pay lower council rates they must consider what services they are prepared to forgo, says new Mayor Peter Cox.
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Cr Cox was installed as Mayor at a special meeting at the Bendigo Town Hall on Tuesday night.
I would like to see...improved pathways as our number one goal for 2015.
- Peter Cox
A smaller local government with lower rates was an overarching theme Cr Cox conveyed in his inaugural speech, perhaps in response to recent public backlash following revelations council rates in Bendigo had doubled in the past 10 years.
He asked attendees the question: "Where others can provide a service, should council?"
But outgoing Mayor Barry Lyons defended the council's rate rises during his tenure, saying during his parting speech that the increase was the right decision - made to pay for vital council projects.
Cr Mark Weragoda said he was willing to discuss the possibility of lower rates but had concerns about the prospect.
"I'm willing to explore it but we have to look at our 10-year plan we have to look at what we can achieve in our 10-year plan with the current rates system," he said.
"I'm really concerned if we drop our rates, something has to give and then we might have to play a catch-up game."
Other goals Cr Cox identified during his speech included prioritising expenditure of open space, improved suburban drainage and improved walking and cycling pathways.
"I would like to see...improved pathways as our number one goal for 2015 rather than large, big spend projects," he said.
He quoted his favourite saying, "communities are only as strong as the number of people who get involved," and encouraged all businesses and organisations to hold an "Open Day".
"Annette (Cr Cox's wife) and I have hosted over 1500 visitors and enjoyed it immensely," he said.
"Astutely promoted, it provides an opportunity to share your passions with others with greater awareness of what you do."
Cr Cox said he hoped he could "live up to the position and represent people's point of view and lead the council in a creative and innovative way".
Cr Cox has been a City of Greater Bendigo Councillor since 2008 for the Whipstick Ward.
He lives in California Gully and has worked for Future Employment Opportunities for 25 years.
Former Mayor Barry Lyons thanked his colleagues for electing him and said the highlights of his tenure included the opening of the Bendigo library, the Bendigo Art Gallery extension and visiting schools.
