STEPHEN Ritchie knows what it’s like to sit in council chambers and after a three-year hiatus, he’s decided to seek re-election to Moree Plains Shire Council.

Mr Ritchie sat as a councillor for five years and three months, and was deputy mayor to Katrina Humphries for two years.

He now feels it’s time to return to the fold – and he’s armed with a hefty to-do list.

“I want to see uncompleted projects finished, and there are many across the shire,” Mr Ritchie said.

“We have to get development applications processed and approved much quicker, and we need to promote more development.”

Mr Ritchie sat on the Urban Advisory Committee for more than 10 years and was president of Moree and District Historical Society for 25 years.

“Moree is my hometown, and I love the place and the district –  it’s as simple as that,” Mr Ritchie said.

“Moree has always been a great town, even in tough times, and is especially good for work and employment opportunities.”

Former Moree Plains Shire Council deputy mayor Stephen Ritchie has his name back on the ballot paper after a three-year hiatus (Image Copyright).

He says Moree Plains Shire is “huge and diverse”, and the “three Rs” – roads, rates and rubbish – are always issues.

“Roads are always a problem, and an even bigger one for Moree because of the sheer size of the shire. We need commitment and funding to make our rural roads better,” Mr Ritchie said.

“Moree residents are paying much more in rates than residents in other, similar-sized towns, and this needs to be looked at.”

It’s been three years since Mr Ritchie marched up the stairs at the Max Centre as Moree Plains Shire Council deputy mayor.

He says there’s unfinished business, and he wants to be part of the process to get projects completed.

“There are quite a few issues that need to be sorted out. I’m now retired and have the time and energy to fully commit to the people of Moree,” Mr Ritchie said.

“We need more industry, and the Special Activation Project will deliver that over time,” Mr Ritchie said.

“More industry creates more employment and population growth. The SAP is going to be great for the district, but we need to make sure it rolls out smoothly and on time, with no unnecessary red-tape or hiccups.”

Mr Ritchie said he will always be available to ratepayers if elected on September 14.

“I will never make promises to people, but I will always be approachable, listen to ratepayers and the issues they have, and do what I can to help,” he said.

Words: Bill Poulos