Basil Zempilas is officially in the run for City of Perth Lord Mayor, as he reruns for a consecutive four year term in the 2023 Elections on October 21 in Western Australia.
Nominations commenced on Thursday 31 August 2023 with Basil’s candidate profile published on the city’s website on Wednesday night before the deadline closed.
According to The Age, there was speculation Basil intended to shed the mayor title in favour of plans for state politics with the WA Liberal Party as his candidate profile was not listed on the website until Wednesday.
Basil will challenge fellow councillor Sandy Anghie in the run for Lord Mayor in Perth, as he reruns for the four year term, expiring on 16 October 2027.
In his candidate statement, Basil says, “Three years ago, I asked you to trust me to be your Lord Mayor,” noting the privilege it has been to honour that trust.
As the Lord Mayor, Basil works with his Council to provide direction to the City of Perth. He has vowed to continue his record of delivery, with the council’s efforts to limit rate rises, foster businesses district and draw people back to Perth city, while working on community safety.
“Our team has delivered the lowest rate rise of any Perth Council,” Basil proclaims. The council have changed parking bays to be free after 6pm and 100 new businesses have opened in Perth City, as well four new homeless shelters.
Read more: Exclusive: Basil Zempilas – ‘My heart beats true for Greece and Perth’
Among the promises Basil has vowed to continue and to implement, the council are advocating for positive environmental changes with the planting of 1000 trees, as well as safer and cleaner neighbours. The council has already acquired 175 additional Perth based Police officers.
According to WA Today, when Basil was asked why the City of Perth should re-elect him as Mayor, he said, “Because I haven’t let them down, I’ve delivered and there’s more work to be done.”
Basil closes his statement by reminding voters, “You can trust me to continue delivering for you and for Perth.”
Basil was elected Lord Mayor of the City of Perth in October 2020 and became the 18th Lord Mayor, joining Local Government after a successful and ongoing broadcasting career in television and radio.
Elections will take place on October 21.
