Councillor bids farewell to Berri Barmera

Cr Kassebaum said his decision to resign was due to a change in his personal circumstances.

“It was certainly a difficult decision as I have thoroughly enjoyed representing my community,” he said.

“However, I no longer live locally and stepping away from the role feels like the right decision and one I make with a clear conscience.”

Berri Barmera Council Mayor Ella Winnall thanked Cr Kassebaum for his service to the local community.

“Councillor Kassebaum has been a passionate, dedicated and knowledgeable elected member,” she said.

“He will be missed in the chamber and likewise in the community and we wish him the very best going forward.

“While a full chamber is always preferable, we respect Cr Kassebaum’s difficult decision and trust it was made with the community in mind.”

Berri Barmera Council will continue the remainder of the local government term with six elected members, plus the mayor.

Under the Local Government (Elections) Act 1999 and Council policy, council can carry two vacancies within 12 months of the next local government election.

The next local government elections will take place in November 2026, with caretaker mode to be effective from August.

Cr Kassebaum’s resignation, which comes within 12 months of the next local government election, means a costly supplementary election will not be required.

The Act is intended to prevent costly supplementary elections from being conducted immediately prior to caretaker periods.

Cr Rhonda Centofanti passed away in December 2023, with the Local Government Act 1999 and Council policy stating that council can carry a single vacancy after the first year of term.