SHARON Griffiths, after four years as a councillor, has thrown her hat in the mayoral race as well as contesting the councillor election.

The Redbank resident says she is contesting the mayoral election because she is solutions focused and has a can-do attitude.

“I really like supporting the community and community-driven initiatives,” Cr Griffiths said.

“I would like to make sure I am challenging the organisation to deliver on services and infrastructure and provide direction to make sure we get there.”

Cr Griffiths, a Wauchope business owner, has formerly worked with an accountancy firm, private corporations, and the Education Department taking in five small schools in the outer valley.

She has 32 years’ experience in business and varied community involvement.

Cr Griffiths wants to build on her council achievements and believes it is time for a positive new direction for council.

She cited continuing savings and efficiency as important, with runs on the board, but more to be done.

Renegotiated loans were a big win, Cr Griffiths said, along with solar power installations and better utilisation of the Glasshouse.

“We need to still be looking for further initiatives and opportunities for savings to provide for our future services and infrastructure,” she said.

Cr Griffiths advocated for the volunteer program and RV friendly town status.

Casting her mind ahead, Cr Griffiths is interested in looking at possibilities associated with affordable housing.

The key focus ranges from roads to infrastructure, opposing a 52.4 per cent rate rise and spending rates more wisely.

Cr Griffiths’ team of election candidates also features Katie Scott, Sheryl Barnett and June Bricknell.

She said the team members were skilled and qualified to be on council.

Their expertise spans finance, business and environmental science.

“They are very in touch with community and looking for practical outcomes,” Cr Griffiths said.

The election campaign has included touching base with progress associations and attending markets.

Feedback indicates community issues, such as roads, footpaths, parks and gardens, are much the same as in the past.

Cr Griffiths said her group was dedicated to seeing results and working cooperatively with the council.