By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Former Greater Dandenong councillor Peter Brown’s first priority is to call in the controversial Parkfield Reserve masterplan, if he is – as expected – returned to council on 11 November.
Mr Brown is the unbackable favourite to return via countback, filling the Paperbark Ward vacancy created by the sudden resignation of mayor Roz Blades.
A former mayor himself, Mr Brown was warily confident of being returned.
After all, he had failed to secure Meng Heang Tak’s former seat by countback in 2018 – despite having the most primary votes out of the remaining candidates.
“I certainly hope I am re-elected,” Mr Brown said.
“It might be a case of absence making the heart grow fonder.”
If returned, Mr Brown said he’d look to revisit the Parkfield Reserve masterplan. He was concerned that the plan may disadvantage Noble Park Tennis Club.
“My first proposal would be for the masterplan to be called in, and a consultative group formed to work on what’s the best needs of the clubs.
“The facility is being built for the clubs and the public. The first priority is what they want, not what we want.”
The council masterplan was approved in February, despite vigorous opposition from cyclists over the removal of its Maurice Kirby velodrome.
The tenant tennis, soccer and cricket clubs staunchly supported the proposed redevelopment.
During the countback, Ms Blade’s votes will be redistributed to the remaining unsuccessful candidates from the 2016 election, according to preferences.
The eligible candidates’ primary votes are not counted.
“From the advice of scrutineers, I’ve been given the understanding that 65-70 per cent of preferences were going my way,” Cr Brown said.
The countback will take place at 10.30am on Monday 11 November at the City of Greater Dandenong council chamber, Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.
