WITH five generations of his family calling Warwick home, businessman John Wode is more than familiar with local issues.

While a final decision won't be made until next year, Mr Wode is considering putting his hand up for a position on the council.

"The final decision will be made next year, based on the number of candidates," Mr Wode said.

"Last time there were too many."

Mr Wode has been speaking to residents, to find out what their concerns are.

"Eighty per cent are the same thing," he said.

"Rates and the debt council is carrying."

Mr Wode said he believed we need to look at essential services such as water, roads and sewerage and make sure that they are the highest priority.

"I look forward to discussing the possibilty of reducing the number of councillors in line with the Scenic Rim and Goondiwindi councils, which have six," Mr Wode said.

"Every councillor should be responsible for the whole shire," he said.

"They should be representing all areas."

With a diverse employment history from shoes sales, banking, Queensland Rail and Main Roads and a working-class background, Mr Wode said that he was not looking at things from a single point of view.

"Visions are all well and good but action plans are critical and have to have a positive outcome," he said.

"I don't believe any business or council can reach its goals if there's division."

"Nothing can be achieved out of conflict.

"There has to be a common goal with the CEO and Council," Mr Wode said.

"I believe that Destination Southern Downs is a great name but needs expanding from just tourism," he said.

"It needs to grow its umbrella to enticing business and people. Without that (the region) won't grow."

Mr Wode said that there were always ways to reduce overheads.

He said he would like to speak to the new CEO, David Keenan, who had impressed him so far.

"So far he is looking in the right areas, not allowing debt to go up for non-essential services," Mr Wode said.

Having worked for the Department of Main Roads for over 25 years, Mr Wode said he had the ability to get the point across and get people on side.

"One person's opinion does not count if no one is on side," he said.

After his position with the Department of Main Roads became redundant in 2011, Mr Wode spent three years searching for a job before deciding to open his own computer business.

"There needs to be a focus on employment," he said. "We need to entice industry to create jobs."