GREG Conkey has emerged as a surprise challenger for mayor, after announcing he will run against incumbent Rod Kendall for the top job at Monday night’s mayoral election.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The new contender comes after Councillor Paul Funnell withdrew from the battle on Saturday, coming up one short on the head count needed to secure a victory.
While expressing his regret at leaving the race, Cr Funnell gave Cr Conkey his full backing for the top slot and Dallas Tout as deputy mayor.
Cr Funnell is now publicly calling on fellow councillors to do the same, citing a need to stop players affiliated with parties from taking council’s leadership roles.
“I don’t believe there is any place for party politics whatsoever in local government,” he said.
“This is what is muddying the waters, and they will continue to use it as a platform and it ceases to be about local representation.”
Cr Conkey, who is now serving his second term in Wagga council, told The Daily Advertiser he was holding meetings on Sunday afternoon to shore up support among councillors.
“I’m reasonably confident I will do well, and I appreciate the support I have received so far publicly and privately,” Cr Conkey said.
Monday night’s vote now looks to be a two-man race, with only Cr Kendall and Cr Conkey putting up their hands.
Last week, Kerry Pascoe indicated he may throw his hat in the ring if he has the numbers, however, it is unknown if he still intends to run.
Cr Conkey will face-off against the popular Cr Kendall, who has already confirmed he will run for another tilt as mayor.
Earlier this month, Cr Kendall was ushered into office for another term after a landslide of votes for Next Generation Wagga.
Cr Kendall led the five-person ticket, which gathered more than 20 per cent of the first-preference vote.
The position of mayor and deputy mayor will be decided during Monday night’s ordinary council meeting starting at 6pm.