YVE Stocks is the latest to step out of the shadows and announce plans to contest the March 2020 local government elections.

The sitting councillor had previously refused to answer queries about the election.

However, on Monday night, Cr Stocks put an end to speculation and confirmed she will seek re-election.

Cr Stocks said the Granite Belt is in better shape now than at the last election.

“Definitely. I do think that we are all better off working together,” she said.

“The Mt Marlay pipeline is a good example, and now the two water tanks to hold the carted water. The Wallangarra water treatment plant has been replaced at a cost of $1.5 million. Fred Rogers car park and streetscaping.”

Cr Stocks said infrastructure and development would be the focus of her re-election campaign.

“I would like to make sure that we continue with water infrastructure so that we will be more resilient in times of drought. A water grid connected to other available water, in southeast Queensland or NSW.

“Continue sustainable development that will bring jobs and people to the region, such as the UQ Solar Farm.

“Tourism and events – we have to attract other forms of income besides agriculture, manufacturing and transport. There are a lot of small businesses who depend on the outside money flowing into the area.”

She believes council’s success in negotiating with the state government over water and cartage is a feather in their cap.

“I think we have done the best we can with the resources we have at hand.

“The funding we have negotiated from both state and federal government.”

Cr Stocks also suggests she’s always been a supporter of Emu Swamp Dam’s construction.

“I have always supported the Emu Swamp Dam project.

“It has to be paid for by the state and federal government and the users.

“The SDRC ratepayers could not afford to construct the dam. My views have not changed in my term of council.”

Where council have perhaps fallen short? Her response is similar to that given by Cr Cameron Gow.

“Consultation with the community. We have tried many ways, but it is always hard to get to everyone,” she said.