<h2>Summary of the Ballarat Unscheduled Council Meeting - November 10, 2025</h2> <h3>1. Key Decisions &amp; Outcomes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral Term Set</strong>: The Council decided that the term for both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be one year.</li> <li><strong>Election of Mayor 2025/26</strong>: Cr Tracey Hargreaves was elected as Mayor for the upcoming term.</li> <li><strong>Election of Deputy Mayor 2025/26</strong>: Cr Ben Taylor was elected as Deputy Mayor for the year.</li> </ul> <h3>2. Detailed Descriptions</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral Term Set</strong></li> <li> <p>The Council resolved to set both the Mayoral and Deputy Mayoral terms at one year. This decision aligns with the Governance Rules, ensuring leadership continuity and responsiveness to community needs. The resolution was moved by Cr Jim Rinaldi and seconded by Cr Des Hudson, reflecting a unanimous agreement among council members.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Election of Mayor 2025/26</strong></p> </li> <li> <p>The election process was conducted in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020 and the Council’s Governance Rules. Two nominations were received: Cr Tracey Hargreaves and Cr Damon Saunders. With an absolute majority, Cr Hargreaves was re-elected as Mayor, highlighting her leadership as recognized by her peers. This decision ensures continuity in the leadership of the City of Ballarat.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Election of Deputy Mayor 2025/26</strong></p> </li> <li>Similarly, the Deputy Mayor election followed statutory requirements, with nominations from Cr Ben Taylor and Cr Jim Rinaldi. Cr Ben Taylor secured the position through a majority vote, marking his role in supporting the Mayor and representing the City alongside her.</li> </ul> <h3>3. Community Impact</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Leadership Continuity</strong>: The re-election of Cr Hargreaves as Mayor and the appointment of Cr Taylor as Deputy Mayor promise consistent and stable governance for Ballarat residents. Their leadership is expected to continue addressing key community concerns and advancing city projects.</li> <li><strong>Public Engagement</strong>: The meeting's broadcast and recording availability ensure transparency, allowing community members to stay informed and engaged with council activities.</li> </ul> <h3>4. Other Notable Items</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Public Participation and Acknowledgment</strong>: The meeting began with a Welcome to Country by Shannen Mennen, acknowledging the traditional custodians, the Wadawurrung people. This practice underscores the Council's commitment to honoring Indigenous heritage and fostering inclusive community relations.</li> </ul> <h3>5. Tech &amp; Innovation Notes</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Digital Accessibility</strong>: The live broadcast and subsequent online availability of the meeting proceedings exemplify the Council’s commitment to leveraging technology for civic engagement and transparency.</li> </ul> <p>This summary encapsulates the key outcomes and discussions from the Ballarat Unscheduled Council Meeting, reflecting the Council's decisions and their implications for the community.</p>