Results of the elections on 24 September are that Darcy Byrne (Labor) has the mayoralty, after doing a deal with the Liberals and the independent Victor Macri. Labor won 5 seats and the Liberals 2. The Greens also won 5 seats but could only rely on two independents, John Stamolis and Jennie Lockie (Nowestconnex).
Labor promised during the campaign that there would be a $10 m “bike fund” for projects over the next three years, in addition to funding to complete the Greenway. The Greens promised $40 m for “active transport”. The Liberals were silent.
IWBC is calling for a quick resumption of bicycle planning and construction, with adequate staff to do the work. There is a fear that another round of reorganization and change may ensue as the new Council sorts itself out, leading to delays in getting vital bicycle infrastructure designed and built. Specialist bike planners are needed and we hope Council can build on the expertise already apparent amongst current staff.
We are also calling for a reconstitution of a Bicycle Advisory Committee, where residents can have a say on bicycle projects and programs. We hope a progressive will be appointed to chair the Traffic Committee and that a cycling representative will be appointed.