The Greens’ Debbie Killian has been confirmed to fill the vacancy in Ward 3 of Shoalhaven City Council created by the resignation of Councillor Natalie Johnston.
“It wasn’t a straight forward decision to put my hand up,” she said. “The reasons given by Councillor Johnston for her resignation – essentially that she has ‘fundamental concerns about the culture of the elected Council’ really gave me pause.
“Councillor Johnston has always seemed well informed. She has been a calm and intelligent participant in Council, making positive and respectful contributions. She is a capable and committed person – yet she felt unable to make a positive contribution on this Council.
“That should raise concerns for any potential Councillor.”
Ms Killian conceded that she will be a lone Greens voice on Council but has committed to working constructively with other councillors for the benefit of Shoalhaven residents.
“I’m sure it won’t be easy, but I am very clear about what I stand for and how I will behave,” she says. “I absolutely commit to working with all the other councillors, regardless of their political leanings, and to show respect to them, Council staff, and community members.”