On September 10, Port Macquarie-Hastings residents will go to the polls to vote in our next council for a four-year term.

At local government level is where true democracy can prevail. It is where grassroots decision making will directly affect each and every one of us and where residents can play a real role in helping to make a difference.

Already we have a number of candidates stepping up to the line and several sharing their intention to run for the top job of mayor.

When you go to the polls in September, here is your opportunity to put your words into action. If ever you’ve had a gripe about council, make your vote count. Our council will be made up of local people who will lead the way on decision-making for the next four years.

Think about what your expectations are from our next contingent of councillors and the priority issues we want them to action.

Is honesty and integrity at the forefront of your mind? Do we want councillors who are prepared to agitate on your behalf, embrace fervent open discussion and engage with residents on the issues that matter? Do alliances and political persuasions make a difference?

Think about who you want to represent you, your neighbour, your business, your community group. And if you aren’t happy with the line up, step up to the plate yourself.

It’s easy to sit back and knock council but there are plenty of opportunities for your voice to proactively make a difference. 

When our next council is sworn in, your councillors will continue to be an important link in championing the issues, big and small, for ratepayers.

Nominations for councillor and mayor open Monday, August 1. Candidates will then have until noon on Wednesday, August 10 to nominate.

Port Macquarie-Hastings is one of 81 of the 152 local councils in NSW holding elections on September 10.

Over the coming weeks, the NSW Electoral Commission will roll out its campaign. The first phase of the campaign urges voters to check and update their enrolment details, or enrol for the first time.

The second phase will carry important information about pre-polling and postal voting arrangements. The third phase will provide information about where to vote.