Steve Cooper is keen to keep building on Geraldton’s strategic plan

As the old saying goes: “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.

That’s the approach Steve Cooper has adopted in his bid to be elected to the City of Greater Geraldton council. Mr Cooper, who is semi-retired, said he had a lot of respect for the way the council had invested in a long-term vision.

“I’m not about bringing in anything radically new or different to the council,” he said.

“We are in good hands, all of that good work has been done.

“What it’s now about is rolling out their strategic plan — I want to be a part of that.”

Born and bred in Geraldton with three children and two grandchildren, Mr Cooper said he had spent his campaign talking to local business owners and residents about their concerns.

“The significant majority are happy,” he said. “There are a few localised issues, for instance some concerns about parking and antisocial behaviour in the west end of town. Whereas at the Railway Street end their issues are around beautification. They aren’t major but they are there.”

Mr Cooper said he was inspired to nominate for the council to fill one of the three vacancies. “I’ve always said that a mix of new blood and existing experience is good for the city,” Mr Cooper said. “Turnover is good, you get good ideas and different perspectives coming to council. Being semi-retired, I’ve got the time to listen to the community and bring those points of view back to council.”

A former director at Central Regional TAFE, Mr Cooper said he was passionate about quality tertiary training in regional areas.

“It’s important that we attract good teachers and lecturers and provide a range of training,” he said. “You don’t want to see youth leaving the city. If you keep those things up and listen to the community then we are going to retain youth in our town for jobs.”

Promising to champion redevelopment in Geraldton’s outer suburbs, Mr Cooper said it was important council wasn’t too city-centric.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to be born and bred in Geraldton and I’ve enjoyed sports, leisure and education. I want that for future generations as well.”