After serving six terms on Victoria City Council, Chris Coleman has decided not to run for re-election.
He says he considered the last 20 years an astounding opportunity: really a gift from the voters of Victoria, to allow me to go off and do a range of different things in community development that are sometimes painful and sometimes exhilarating, but always interesting.
However, he feels local government's focus has shifted, and not for the better: “over 20 years I have watched as we moved from the principles of good governance to a trend line that is really more about spectacular politics, and I find that frustrating at times."
He is very thankful for the opportunities he's had, but thinks it's time for a change. Coleman says he's going to keep working with the community, but stay outside the political realm.
After spending the last four years helping shape the future of Victoria as a member of City Council, Margaret Lucas announced today that she will not be running in the 2018 municipal election. In her time on City Council Lucas helped overhaul the City's Strategic Plan Grant process and supported business-led initiatives like the creation of the new Business Hub. As well she backed progressive initiatives like affordable housing, the cycling network, arts and culture and urban food initiatives.
"It has been an honour to be at the table" says Lucas. I am proud to have brought the voice of business into City Hall at the same time representing the broad desires of Victorians now and also laying the groundwork for future generations.