UPDATE: Perth’s newly elected Lord Mayor, Bruce Reynolds, has officially taken office with a clear mission: to rebuild trust and transform the city following years of political turmoil. Elected on October 18, 2023, Reynolds aims to shift the narrative from a fractured leadership to one of collaboration and progress.
With the previous mayor, Basil Zempilas, now leading the WA Liberal Party, Reynolds acknowledges the high expectations set before him. He stated, “You couldn’t get worse than where it was…the only way was up.” His immediate focus is on repairing the strained relationship between Perth’s city council and the state government, a crucial step for future development.
Reynolds won his position with 1,918 votes, narrowly defeating fellow councillor Catherine Lezer. He emphasized the importance of communication, noting that he has already begun texting with Premier Roger Cook, who was quick to congratulate him. “He was the first person to message me when I won,” Reynolds shared, signifying a shift towards a more cooperative atmosphere in local governance.
A personal story of resilience underscores Reynolds’ leadership style. Raised in state housing and moving schools over a dozen times, he has learned the value of hard work and determination. “I can control working harder than anyone,” he affirmed, reflecting a mindset ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
One of Reynolds’ ambitious goals is to make Perth the “safest city in Australia.” He believes achieving this within three years is possible if all levels of government commit to the vision. “If someone Googles ‘safest city in Australia’ and Perth comes up, that changes everything. Businesses invest. Tourists come,” he explained.
Additionally, Reynolds is excited about transforming Perth’s identity from the “City of Light” to the “City of Bright.” His plan includes attracting international university campuses to the CBD, which he believes would invigorate the city and fill empty storefronts. “Imagine the energy of the city with students around,” he said, envisioning a vibrant urban landscape.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Reynolds recognizes that success will be measured by the impact he has on the community. “History will be the judge,” he stated, showing humility about his legacy.
In his tenure, Reynolds aims to not only address safety and economic growth but also to tackle social issues like homelessness. “As long as I can look in the mirror every morning and know I’ve done the right thing, then that’s enough,” Reynolds concluded, emphasizing his commitment to ethical leadership.
With his term set to last until October 2027, Bruce Reynolds is poised to bring a new era of hope and revitalization to Perth. Keep an eye on this developing story as Reynolds implements his vision for the city’s future.
