By BEN CAMERON
Council hangs on tight to bring new life into former home…
CARDINIA Shire Council has no plans to sell its Henty Way offices, preferring them to be used as a health or education hub.
With the council set to move to its new civic centre home in Officer on 17 November, council chief executive officer Garry McQuillan said there was no intention to sell at this stage.
“At this point in time, council is not intending to sell the office and continues to talk to interested parties,” he said.
“Our preference is that it be used as health or education facilities.”
A spokesperson said in October that the council was keen to see the buildings remain an “asset for the community, possibly as a health or education hub, and is in discussions with interested parties about its future”.
The new council offices, which are located in Siding Avenue and just a short walk from Officer train station, will bring all indoor staff into one location.
Meanwhile, the council held its last ever ordinary meeting at the old council building on Monday night at which Ranges Ward Cr Leticia Wilmot was named the shire’s second ever female mayor.
Former mayor Cr Graeme Moore, now Cr Wilmot’s deputy, said he was keen to introduce her to local residents in other wards.
“She’s got her head on straight,” he said.
“But she will need to hit the ground running.
“I will show her around the Port and Central wards where she is not as well known.”
He said he was still feeling fresh after a busy 12 months.
“I’m still keen as mustard,” he said.
“Unfortunately I won’t be attending council’s first ever meeting in the new offices (next Monday), it’s a historical occasion, so it’s a shame.
“But I’ll be celebrating my 42nd wedding anniversary in Queensland.”
