Barry Lyons has been elected by his colleagues to take the reins as Bendigo’s mayor for the first time next month.

The retired businessman and former publican has been on the council since 2008 but his career in local government dates back to the 1970s, when he served on the former Romsey shire.

He is also been the president of the Kangaroo Flat Lions Club and served on the board of the Kangaroo Flat Community Health Centre.

He will take over as Bendigo’s mayor next month and will succeed Lisa Ruffell.

In a statement issued last night, councillor Lyons said it was an enormous privilege to be elected to the role and that Bendigo should aspire to be the best regional city in Australia.

Meanwhile, the council voted last night not to introduce paid street parking around the Bendigo Hospital.

However, other measures being put in place will be reviewed next February.

Councillors also voted to start the rezoning process for Fortuna Villa.