Eight to debate at City of Launceston Mayoral Forum

“It was only seven or eight years ago that the mayor was elected unopposed,” he said. 

“Now we have eight candidates. That shows, I think, that the public is engaging with the city and with council.”

Those eight candidates will debate key election issues and engage directly with the public at Wednesday night’s Mayoral Forum, hosted by The Examiner and the Launceston Chamber of Commerce. 

Mr Grose said this was an important election for Launceston, given the big projects in the pipeline for the city. 

“This more than ever is a real crossroads election, because we sit on the edge of some great opportunities, with City Deal and the University of Tasmania development.

“That means that now more than ever it’s important for people to take an interest and have their say.

“[The forum] is an opportunity for the public to hear what the mayoral candidates visions for Launceston are and how they intend to achieve them.”

Editor of ​The Examiner Courtney Greisbach said the forum would be an opportunity for people who hadn’t engaged with local government before to learn about the candidates and issues. 

“If people want to be an active participant in the future direction of their region, it is important they familiarise themselves with their voting options,” she said.

“The council elections are not compulsory, and urban centres often have low participation rates of return votes. That has got to change.”

Voting for the local government elections closes on October 30, with postal voting packs expected to be mailed by October 8. 

RELATED:

Harris makes four for Launceston mayoral race

Wood, McKenzie, Fitch announce plans

Andrea Dawkins announces plans to contest Launceston

Finlay to run for mayor in local government elections

While you're with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates and daily headlines direct to your inbox. Sign up here.