Council nominee puts community first

Jarrod Bell (Supplied) 216411_01

Jessica Micallef

A Sunbury SES volunteer is redirecting his focus to the Hume council election next month.

Jarrod Bell has nominated for the Jacksons Creek ward and he says he wants to continue giving back to the community that has provided him opportunities.

“I believe that it is the duty of us all to give back to our community and we should all be involved in our community,” he said.

“I have spent my live volunteering … whether that be as a Scout leader, Blue Light Disco team member or as the youth development program leader with Sunbury SES.”

The “proud” Sunbury resident said his top priorities are helping residents and businesses get back on their feet and recovering from the coronavirus pandemic.

“No one can deny that COVID-19 has had the greatest impact on our community,” he said.

“I want the council to focus on creating jobs.

“I will also advocate for a small business stimulus package to support Hume’s 38,000 registered small business who are the lifeblood of the community.

“But I also want to see continued investment in the communities of Jacksons Creek, with infrastructure keeping pace as our community grows.”

As a first-time candidate, Mr Bell knows that due to the pandemic, the 2020 election campaign period will look differently compared to previous years.

But he said that presented a “very exciting challenge”.

“At the end of the day it’s about communication, listening to the community and going to where people are,” he said.

“I have started to hold a series of online live forums and social media will play a big part in this election.

“However the traditional methods are also important – mail, flyers and signs are all key ways to communicate with the community.”