A FORMER Bundaberg Regional Council employee is the latest resident to throw their hat in the ring for the council elections in March.

Jason Bartels - who has nominated to run for Division 1 - said he would strive to ensure the region remained an attractive and affordable area to live in.

"I live at Burnett Downs with my wife and three teenage children, we love the lifestyle and liveability that this great region offers," he said.

"But I am concerned that without change to our council this lifestyle and the liveability of our region is going to suffer."

Mr Bartels said some of the main issues he would be fighting for were:

No more increases to rates. His plan is to cap rates for the next four years.

Supporting existing agriculture and industry enabling growth and new opportunities.

Lobbying state and federal governments for a fair share of funding.

Not committing to projects until funding was secured.

Growing tourism in the area.

Developing existing facilities - such as Sandy Hook and the airport - into premium facilities..

Developing Bundaberg Port into the main logistical hub of the state.

Mr Bartels said ratepayers could not afford to pay more.

"This council has delivered an average increase to our rates of 7.54% every year since 2008.

"This is disgusting.

"What are they doing with the ratepayer's money?

"There is absolutely no need to keep charging ratepayers more, but there is a definite need for ratepayers' money to be better managed."