Redland City Council will apply to the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) for a recommendation to the Minister for Local Government that the upcoming Mayoral by-election be conducted by postal ballot.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said Councillors agreed, at a Special Meeting of Council held on Thursday 29 October, to pursue the option following the mid-term resignation of the former Mayor, which left the Mayoral office vacant.
“This decision means Council will formally request that the ECQ conducts the by-election using a full postal vote, subject to the relevant electoral requirements and approval processes,” Cr Talty said.
You may also like these stories
“A full postal vote means eligible voters would receive their ballot papers by mail instead of attending a polling booth in person to cast their vote.
“Council believes a full postal vote would be more convenient for voters over the holiday and Christmas period, and reduce election costs which are ultimately paid by the community through Council’s budget.
“While the cost is not known as yet, it is expected that a full postal ballot will be significantly less costly than an in-person poll.
“This was not an expense that was budgeted for, and a full postal ballot, while less costly will also provide certainty and consistency for voters.
“This decision is an important step towards progressing arrangements to fill the vacant Mayoral office and ensure on-going leadership for Redland City, and we will continue to work through the processes to support the delivery of the by-election.”
The Electoral Commission of Queensland is responsible for conducting local government elections and by-elections in accordance with the relevant legislation and electoral requirements.
Information about the Redland City Mayoral by-election, including candidate nominations, enrolment and voting arrangements, will be made available by the ECQ in due course.
