The upcoming Maitland Council elections have been plunged into disarray after it was revealed that two Liberal candidates, Councillor Ben Mitchell (Ward 4) and Michael Cooper (Ward 3), did not have their nominations submitted by the Liberal Party Headquarters in Sydney before the deadline. This shocking development comes amid broader issues across the state regarding the nomination process for Liberal candidates in the lead-up to September’s Local Government Elections.
Councillor Mitchell Griffin, who has confirmed his nomination as an independent candidate for Ward 2, expressed his disappointment over the situation, stating that the exact circumstances are still unclear but are expected to be investigated in the coming weeks. Griffin praised both Mitchell and Cooper for their hard work and dedication, noting that they were likely to have been elected had their nominations been properly submitted.
Despite the setbacks, Griffin has assured the community that he remains committed to his work and will continue to serve as an independent candidate. While he will appear on the ballot as an independent, Griffin emphasized that he is still a member of the Liberal Party and was originally selected to run as an endorsed Liberal candidate. He remains transparent about his affiliation and intends to work closely with Councillor Sally Halliday (Ward 1), who successfully submitted her nomination as an endorsed Liberal.
Griffin urged traditional Liberal voters to support both him and Halliday in the upcoming election, warning that the council is at risk of falling under a Labor/Greens majority, especially with Greens candidates running in all four wards. He also endorsed the current Mayor, Philip Penfold, highlighting Penfold’s dedication to the city and their successful collaboration during Griffin’s tenure as Deputy Mayor.
As the situation unfolds, the Maitland community is left to grapple with the potential impact on the local elections, which are set to take place on September 14.