Neutral stance

• Published date: 23 June 2022

Nominations officially open next month for October’s local body elections — so far, three mayoral candidates have announced their intention to stand: Glyn Lewers, Jon Mitchell and Olivia Wensley

Boult says he’s ‘‘constantly’’ asked if he’s supportive of any particular candidate, be it one of those three, or someone yet to throw their hat in the ring.

‘‘I’ve made it very clear that my position on this should always be a neutral one, and I reinstate that now.

‘‘It is up to the community to decide who will lead the district for the next three years, and it would be completely improper of me to influence that in any way.’’

But Boult says he’s disappointed with the lack of candidates standing for council, to date.

While a few councillors will tap out, including Val Miller and...