A count-back of votes of the 2024 Inverell local government election will be called after the resignation of councillor Paul Harmon.

With 11 candidates standing last year for nine seats on Inverell Shire Council, the count-back rests between Graem Murray and Kelvin Brown.

Mr Harmon served as Inverell mayor for 12 years but was replaced by Kate Dight at the first meeting of the new council after last year’s election.

“It has been an absolute honour to serve the Inverell community over the past 21 years,” Mr Harmon said.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, especially major infrastructure projects. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues and most importantly, to the people of Inverell for their trust and support throughout my tenure.”

Mr Harmon expressed deep appreciation for his family’s unwavering support, saying he could not have fulfilled his role without the sacrifices made by his parents, his wife Anna and their children.

“Family life has been a challenge due to council commitments, but I am proud of the legacy I leave behind because they allowed me the time to serve,” Mr Harmon said.

The NSW Electoral Commission will conduct a recount of votes, excluding those received by Mr Harmon at the 2024 election. A by-election will not be called.

Paul Harmon has resigned from Inverell Shire Council.

Mr Harmon was first elected to Inverell Shire Council on April 6, 2004. He was re-elected multiple occasions, and served the community with dedication and leadership.

His tenure included key roles as mayor and deputy mayor, as well as representation on numerous committees, organisations and advisory bodies.

Mr Harmon served as mayor from September 2012 to October last year and guided the Inverell community through a period of significant growth and development.

His leadership was also recognised in his appointments as deputy mayor in 2009 and 2011.

Beyond mayoral responsibilities, Mr Harmon played a vital role in a wide range of Council

committees and representative groups, including Country Mayors Association, Inverell Sports Council, Inverell District Development Foundation, Sapphire City Festival, Civil and Environmental Services Committee, Economic and Community Sustainability Committee, Finance/Budget Committee and Water and Sewer Advisory Committee.

Cr Harmon’s commitment to the Inverell community extended beyond the Council Chamber.

He was a strong advocate for local business, community wellbeing, and regional development.

His dedication to community service included serving as a retained firefighter with the NSW Fire Brigade for 10 years.

He was also an active member of Apex for 15 years, a tradition carried on by two of his sons.

“I wanted to leave the Council in a better position than it was when I arrived. I am very humbled to have been a part of this journey and what we have achieved together,” he said.