Councillor Chris Firns, who was elected Shire President at special meeting on Monday of last week, was fined $400 with $3587.70 costs in the Northam Magistrates Court on April 3 after he pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a notice, the action being brought against him by the shire.

He says the issue is being appealed to the State Administrative Tribunal.

The fine and costs hanging over Cr Firns’ head did not stop his fellow councillors electing him President five votes to four over former Deputy President Cr Bob Somers who was re-elected to his former position.

Cr Charlie Wroth, who had been Shire President for four years, did not stand.

Three new councillors – Pim Nouwland in Central Ward, John Prater in East Ward and Kevin Hogg in North Ward took part in the vote.

Cr Firns has had a rocky relationship with the shire chief executive officer Graham Merrick.

“However I am confident of the professionalism of all the shire staff,” he said.

Cr Firns has been prominent in the recently formed Ratepayers Association, but denies he has ever been a single-issue councillor.

He says his aim is to ensure the shire acts with “accountability, transparency and consultation”.

Cr Firns says he is also a strong supporter of retaining the rural character and heritage of Toodyay.

“I am opposed to the urbanisation of Toodyay,” he said.

“We should not become a dormitory suburb of Perth.”

He sees planning policies as a vital tool in maintaining Toodyay’s identity.

“Local planning policies should reflect the desires of the people,” Cr Firns concluded.

This will be an issue as some recent planning decisions have caused deep controversy in the shire.