Long-serving Coffs Harbour councillor and former mayor Paul Amos has officially stepped down today, ending nearly a decade in local government and triggering a council by-election.
Amos’s resignation takes effect today, Wednesday, 14 October, after serving on Coffs Harbour City Council since 2016.
He was appointed Deputy Mayor in 2021 before being elected Mayor following the December 2021 local government elections.
Amos held the mayoral position until 2024 and continued serving as a councillor following that year’s election.
During his time as Mayor, he oversaw the opening of several major community facilities, including the Wiigulga Sports Complex, two synthetic sporting fields and Hub 2 at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium precinct.
His tenure also included the major redevelopment of Sportz Central and the official opening of Yarrila Place by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in September 2023.
Amos also championed a free bus travel trial aimed at encouraging greater public transport use across the city.
City of Coffs Harbour General Manager Murray Wood thanked Cr Amos for his contribution to the region.
“On behalf of City staff, I’d like to thank Cr Amos for his significant contribution during his time as a Councillor and Mayor and thank him for his service to the Coffs community,” Wood said.
Mayor Nikki Williams also acknowledged his service during a challenging period for the community.
“Cr Paul was on Council during a challenging time for our community which included flood, bushfire and the COVID pandemic. I wish him all the very best with the next chapter of his life.”
Amos’s departure leaves a vacancy on Coffs Harbour City Council, with a by-election to be held to elect his replacement.
The NSW Electoral Commission will oversee the process, with the by-election generally required to take place within three months.
Further details, including voting dates, will be announced once confirmed.
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