But cracks are starting to appear in the facade.

Despite denying her plans to challenge Cr Smith for mayor in September are a repudiation of his leadership style, those close to the council group say there have been tensions between the pair for months.

That our shire is at a critical juncture in its history and needs strong leadership is without question.

As neighbouring councils like Wagga know only too well, internal friction among councillors can seriously impact service delivery and decision-making.

One of the beauties of a democratic system is that anyone has a right to run for office.

But it’s incumbent upon Crs Smith and Halliburton to ensure any challenge in September does not plunge the council into political chaos.

In-house mayoral votes are, by definition, politically charged affairs.

Councillors actively lobby colleagues behind the scenes in a bid to roll their opponents.

Factions form, political debts are owed.

It can be a recipe for dysfunction, a recipe this community has no appetite for.

A far more sensible – and democratic – way of electing our mayor would be by popular vote at a general election, just as councils like Griffith have opted for.

This negates the political jostling and means the community has the ultimate say on who leads them.

Who’s the best person to lead Junee into the next term of council?

It’s hard to say.

There’s no doubt Cr Smith is a man of energy, expertise and passion for Junee.

He thinks outside the box and is an effective communicator.

His push for more renewables in Junee and greater tolerance for diversity shows he is a progressive thinker and he is also championing a host of other community building projects.

But Cr Halliburton should not be underestimated – she is a politician very much in touch with her community. Illabo born and bred, Cr Halliburton’s Junee community ties were forged during her time as head history and English teacher at Junee High.

An interesting election campaign is guaranteed.