Independent John Stamolis triumphs in Leichhardt Council by-election
Image: Balmain by-election taking place at Balmain Public School
By Jessica Yun
Independent John Stamolis will be representing the ward of Birrabirragal (Balmain) in Leichhardt Council once again, electoral results reveal.
In a by-election held in Balmain on Saturday, four candidates ran for election to the empty seat that had been vacated by Liberal councillor Melinda Manikas, who passed away in May.
Mr Stamolis, who was a Leichhardt councillor between 2008-2012, had missed out on being re-elected by a thin margin in the last election, meaning there were no Independents in council from 2012 onwards.
“We’re bringing Independents back,” said Mr Stamolis. “I think the community has sent a signal that they would like to see a diversity of voices on council.”
“I think that’s the biggest signal that our community has sent – that they would like to see an Independent returned, and not for all the party politics … Leichhardt is one of the councils in Sydney that is dominated by the three parties.”
Ruth Davis, 51, was one Balmain community member who placed her vote with Independent John Stamolis.
“I think it is good to have an Independent rather than one of the mainstream parties. And I know that he’s been on council previously, and I think he did a good job,” said Ms Davis.
“I think he’s passionate. The fact that he was on council and he’s been off, and he wants to get back on again – that shows that he’s really dedicated. I think he really wants to represent the area.”
Of the votes counted only from Election Day on Saturday, Independent John Stamolis came in the lead with 35.49% of votes from Balmain residents.
Next was the Labour Party’s Aaron Di Pietro who held 22.81% of the votes with Greens’ Derek Bolton coming a close third at 21.23%. Liberal Michael Manikas accumulated 18.56% of votes.
The election of an Independent councillor has meant the balance of power in Leichhardt Council has shifted.
Where the makeup of council had previously been an evenly balanced 4 Labour, 4 Liberal and 4 Greens councillors, the new council will comprise of 4 Labour, 3 Liberal, 4 Greens and 1 Independent.
“I hope to be the one who drives a number of thoughts myself. I have my own policies. And I will be ensuring that I drag the parties across to me, that I seek their vote on my policies.”
Having been a councillor in previous years, Stamolis felt his advantage was in his previous experience in local government.
Mr Stamolis says the central focus during his term would be in improving amenities for residents and families in the Balmain community.
“My biggest goal is to make sure local government addresses local issues,” said Mr Stamolis.
“It’s about local government. It’s about the amenities for the communities. It’s about having a strong functioning community that enjoys living in Balmain.”
