Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has approved a request by Councillor Paul Mercurio – best known for his starring role in the iconic Aussie film, Strictly Ballroom and as a judge on Dancing with the Stars – to take leave in order to contest the forthcoming state election.
Council says Councillor Mercurio will take leave from today, with his return earmarked for the day after the polls close in the November election.
He has asked to forgo his councillor allowance during the period of his leave, it said.
The Victorian Labor Party has endorsed Cr Mercurio as its candidate for the seat of Hastings.
“If you are a resident of Cr Mercurio’s Watson Ward, you can be assured that Council’s focus on delivering the services you need, and on the wellbeing of your community, will remain unchanged,” said Mayor Anthony Marsh.
“Any issue you would usually speak to Cr Mercurio about you can discuss with me, Deputy Mayor Lisa Dixon or any of the other councillors.
“Our councillors have a responsibility to represent the whole of the Mornington Peninsula, not just the ward in which they were elected,” the Mayor said.
