General News
31 October, 2023
Douglas Shire Mayor stands down in shock announcement
DOUGLAS Shire Mayor Michael Kerr is standing down at the local body elections next year, citing personal reasons.
DOUGLAS Shire Mayor Michael Kerr is standing down at the local body elections next year, citing personal reasons.
He has served two terms as both a councillor and mayor.
"It has been an incredible honour and privilege to serve as both a councillor and Mayor of the Douglas Shire over the past two terms," Cr Kerr said.
“I am grateful for the support and encouragement I have received from the community and proud of all that we have accomplished together over what has been a challenging tenure,” he said.
Cr Kerr has also chaired the Far North Queensland Organisation of Councils while working alongside community members, local organisations, and government officials to improve infrastructure and public services, support local businesses, promote tourism, and the first surplus budget for Douglas since de-amalgamation from the Cairns Regional Council.
Despite the challenges by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cr Kerr said he had always remained committed to creating a better Douglas Shire for all.
"I believe that it is the right time for me to move on and pursue other opportunities in my commitment to working for the people of this shire and to continue strengthening this region," he said.
"I wish the next mayor of the Douglas Shire all the very best and equally hope that they will have elected councillors who will fully support them on their journey as only through a united commitment and a cohesive council will we see the continued growth and success of the Douglas Shire in the years to come."
Cr Kerr thanked the community for “allowing him the privilege of serving as mayor and has committed to continue to serve the community to the best of his ability until the successor is chosen in the March 2024 election.”
In recent times Cr Kerr has had to deal with a dysfunctional council with the other four councillors recently passing a motion of no confidence in his leadership as well as other controversies involving the Daintree River ferry and the council’s media policy.
Cr Kerr has been suggested as a candidate to contest the state seat of Cook held by Labor’s Cynthia Lui.
The council holds its monthly meeting today and more about his retirement is expected to be discussed.
