Residents across the Adelaide Hills are receiving ballot papers this week for the council’s supplementary mayoral election, with voting to close on Monday the 9th of February.
The election was triggered by the resignation of former mayor Jan-Claire Wisdom in September, following several months of leave. A council investigation found she had breached behavioural standards, bullied staff and misled the organisation over her use of a policy to obtain legal advice — allegations she has consistently denied.
Three candidates are contesting the role: Adelaide Hills Deputy Mayor Nathan Daniell, business leader and former councillor Andrew Stratford, and small business owner and Upper Sturt Soldiers Memorial Hall volunteer Georgia McDonnell.
Daniell has represented the Adelaide Hills since 2014 and has served as deputy mayor for more than six years. He says his priorities include financial sustainability, disaster preparedness and protecting the character and amenity of the Hills.
Stratford previously spent 18 years as a councillor and brings a mix of small business experience and public service, with a focus on community advocacy and practical leadership.
McDonnell describes herself as a lifelong Hills local and community engagement professional, with a strong focus on supporting local services, protecting heritage and strengthening community-led initiatives.
Adelaide Hills Council has encouraged residents to read about the candidates and take part in the election, reminding voters that their ballot papers will arrive by post and must be returned before the close of voting on Monday the 9th of February.
