Former Gloucester mayor Julie Lyford has called for MidCoast Council to be positive and diverse in the lead up to the September election.
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Ms Lyford, who has ruled out running for council, said the new council must consist of a dedicated team that can service the people of Gloucester, Greater Taree and the Great Lakes.
"Local government is the closest to the people.
"If you just want to be purposeful and see good results for the whole community, local government is the platform to do it because you can listen to other people's voices, you can have your voice heard but you can get what the community wants.
"The most exciting thing about being in local government is actually seeing results for the efforts you put in and the community put in such as parking infrastructure, play equipment and good roads, Ms Lyford said.
Ms Lyford was involved with Gloucester Shire Council as a councillor and mayor for 17 years.
She highlighted her involvement with the Life of a Community book as an example of the positive aspects of being a councillor. The book documented community groups, service clubs and residents who contributed to the well-being of the community.
"That was eye opening - it was wonderful to see how incredibly diverse the community is and how much energy and commitment comes from the community to create this great place to live.
"I think for me it was the essence of purposefulness of the community and being on local government in seeing what you can achieve, Ms Lyford said.
She said challenges did exist while she was involved with the council but encouraged community-minded people to consider running as a candidate for the MidCoast Council election.
"It's really important people understand its the broader well-being of the whole area that the advocacy needs to be well thought through and well informed.
"It's not an easy process but if you speak the truth, if you have the well-being of the community in your sights, if you are able to understand the processes of government and regional government, then stand up and have a go. It was an incredible learning curve and I feel privileged to be part of that process of being a councillor, Ms Lyford said.
She said the process to form MidCoast Council was disappointing but she encouraged future councillors to work together to do what is best for the entire region.
MidCoast Council applications close on July 31.