After 32 years on Orange City Council, Mayor Reg Kidd says it's time for family to come first

Cr Kidd will remain at the helm of Orange City Council until Christmas but after that, he said his family, most importantly wife Kerry, takes centre stage.

"I can remember being in the old 'padded-cell' at the Royal Hotel and Bunkie [John] Davies made me write on the back of a beer coaster that I would definitely run with him in the next election," Cr Kidd said, recalling the former mayor's displeasure when he pulled out of his election ticket at the time.

That was in the late 80s, with Cr Kidd gaining his first seat on Council at the following election in 1990, a seat he has held since that year.

READ MORE: Tamburlaine puts the band back together with Boomey vineyard purchase near Orange

Born and bred in Orange, Cr Kidd was the city's first popularly-elected leader, and had stated early on he would not be seeking for relection on December 4.

"I'm really sticking to my word," he said, but added he was leaving the door open for a return.

He said it was time he put family first.

"Especially my incredibly supportive wife who was most responsible for me being able to give so much time," he said.

"Our three sons are all married now and have beautiful children who I want to spend more time with, particularly the ones in the (United) States who have their first child, and we have not been able to see to date."

READ MORE: Orange driver distressed after car's tyres are slashed in early-morning attack

He said the loss of his parents Bob and Joan during the term also had a profound affect which he would now have time to reflect on.

Cr Kidd said his business and professional interests had been on hold for the last four years.

"I believe the position of mayor required my full time attention," he said.

"Orange went through an extreme drought and we as a Council led the way in efficient water use and management, and infrastructure development, some finished, and others in the development stage, to see Orange well-positioned for future droughts and sustainable growth.

"Then along came the dreaded COVID-19."

But he said he was proud of the way the Orange community responded, leading the state in vaccination levels and getting tested.

READ MORE: Orange City Council criticised for not keeping up lawn maintenance at Orange General Cemetery

"The last four years has also seen incredible economic growth in Orange with a number of new businesses coming to Orange, government departments expanding or relocating to Orange and unprecedented housing development."

While stepping away from the chamber, Cr Kidd said he intended to remain on a number of council advisory committees.

"I believe they are so important to decision making of a council. There are some Governance issues I want to see resolved and I am confident with the new CEO and several senior executives this council has put in place will see Orange Council to the forefront of accountability and transparency."

He also stressed, he was taking a break, not closing the door on public service.

"This next Council term is less than three years away, and that will give me time to consider possible future public service as we have state, federal then council elections all in that time. Who knows what may eventuate.

"I left my decision to the very last moment watching nominations and it was not an easy decision but as in all decisions in life ... que sera sera and thank you Orange."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:

HAVE YOUR SAY

Send a letter to the editor using the form below