Popular Paul is ‘undecided’

Mayor Antonio yet to decide on possible third term

PAUL Antonio loves his job, is “fit as a fiddle” and stands by his mayoralty record but that doesn’t mean he’ll run for another term.

The Toowoomba Regional Council mayor, elected with more than 75 per cent of the vote at the 2016 local government election, hasn’t decided whether he will, or won’t, seek a third term as civic leader.

“We’re not even half-way through this term,” Cr Antonio said.

“Those decisions, you’re better off ringing back in 18 months.

“I’m terribly pleased with what I have achieved in my mayoralty, I love the job.”

But his position as a popular leader has firmed since the sensational resignation and ongoing corruption and extortion investigation into former Ipswich mayor Paul Pisasale, once known as the most popular mayor in Queensland.

Mr Pisasale secured 83% of the Ipswich vote at the last council election, but Cr Antonio wasn’t far behind with 75.22%.

Based on the election results, Cr Antonio is the most popular mayor in a major region but second behind Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Rex Burke whose 281 votes, or 75.74%, puts him top of the table.

“The reality of my position in this community is despite a fairly tough campaign last time, now that (former Ipswich mayor Paul) Pisasale has been removed, I am one of the highest-rating mayors in Queensland,” Cr Antonio said.

“I don’t consider these things lightly.

“At this point in time, it’s far too early.”

Cr Antonio’s re-election bid, or lack thereof, was raised in a social media video when he was asked whether he’d seek a third term as Toowoomba’s mayor.

“We’re 18 months into this term,” he said in the interview.

“I’ve enjoyed my job. “I’m fit as a fiddle, I do a lot of exercise.

“I’m very happy with my lot and at this point in time, it’s too early to make a decision.”

The other 2016 mayoral contenders were Lindy Eising, Jim McEvoy, Rob Berry and Dirk Egan.

Has Cr Antonio maintained his popularity since being elected?