City of Perth prepares to search for new Lord Mayor as Basil Zempilas firms up for Churchlands seat

The City of Perth is preparing to look for a new Lord Mayor as Basil Zempilas firms up for the seat for Churchlands. As of early Wednesday morning, Mr Zempilas had 51.87 per cent of the two-candidate preferred vote. Mr Zempilas becoming the member for Churchlands would effectively disqualify him from holding the office of Lord Mayor. It will be up to the council if an extraordinary election is held for his replacement or it holds off until the local government elections in October. The West Australian understands it is likely the council will leave the position vacant until October. An extraordinary election last October cost the city $75,000. Mr Zempilas took leave due to the State election last month and during his absence Deputy Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds has taken the reins. Cr Reynolds unsuccessfully ran for Lord Mayor in the city’s 2020 elections, finishing sixth out of seven candidates. He told PerthNow he was “110 per cent” dedicated to the City of Perth and would take on feedback from the community before he decides if he will run for Lord Mayor again. “I’m not here to warm a seat,” he said. “Whether that is in the position of Lord Mayor, a councillor or even a community member, I am dedicated to create positive change to the city.”