As the Griffith City Council byelection approaches, The Area News chats with the candidates to see what makes them tick.
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Name: Damien Marcus, Independent
Age: 48 yrs
Family: Sheila and I have been married for 19 years, we have three boys, Jack 16, Jett 14, both studying at Yanco Agricultural High School, and Harry 10, is at East Griffith Primary School.
Occupation: Self Employed / Liquid Waste Contractor servicing Griffith and District for 18 years, part-time hobby farmer.
How long have you lived in Griffith? The Marcus family have been farming in the Griffith/Yenda district since 1922, when my great-grandfather Archie drew a soldier settler block north of Griffith.
Best part of living in Griffith? Family, friends, living in a supportive, innovative generous community who always look out for those in need.
Why are you running? There has been a call for some time for new faces to put their hand up and have a go. I have always been keen to be more involved in the community now is the right time for me. I will bring a “Yes we can” and “How can we help?” mindset.
How would you assess the performance of the current Council? Council are going along OK, making the right decisions all the time in an often challenging environment cannot be easy. Progress often appears to be at a ‘snail’s pace’ whether it be because of policies or politics.
Listening at community consultations, not being afraid to run with new ideas and ‘taking off the handbrake’. Having a more can-do attitude can only help.
If elected, what would you lobby for? Getting the basics right; roads, rates, rubbish and all the other services Council provides. Encourage more growth and affordable housing to assist businesses to expand, more quality care for the aged is needed.
Main issues you see in the Griffith LGA? Constant issues with the MDBA and losing more water, getting secondary and tertiary education moving in a more positive directions, funding for our hospital.
What are the best ways Council can help businesses prosper? Listening to the business community, streamlining problematic and time consuming processes and procedures. “How can we help” and “What can we do” should be the first questions asked.
What major projects you would champion? It would be great to see the long overdue upgrade about to happen at Westend Oval/Stadium. A complete overhaul of the Lake Wyangan area. I want Griffith to be the most attractive choice for new residents bringing new skills and business ideas.
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