Lucas to take leave

Baw Baw Shire Cr Ben Lucas has formally announced he will step away from council duties as of September 16, to pursue his candidacy for One Nation in the November state election.
Cr Lucas reiterated it was not his intention to use Baw Baw Shire Council as a stepping stone to state politics.
But, he said he would use the opportunity to "grandstand" on council basics - roads, rates and rubbish which he believed needed to be addressed.
"Then when it comes to state we really need to go through the budget and understand where we're wasting funds and then redirect that back to health, education, infrastructure and emergency services really. That's what our community is screaming for and that's what I got elected for here."
Cr Lucas implied he was frustrated with council being lumped with the cost and responsibility of State Government mandates, such as the Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund levy (ESVF), social housing and BESS on farmland.
"If I'm not going to stand up for it, who else is?"
"All the issues that we have here, including the underfunding in the second fastest growing region in Australia; we need to change it and that starts by marginalising the seat."
Cr Lucas said he would put his best foot forward as a candidate.
"If I am unsuccessful, I would love to come back and contribute in this space in the future," he said.
Cr Lucas' absence also will include his representation on council committee appointments.