MAV Statement on Whittlesea City Council Dismissal
The State Government’s decision following the report of the independent monitor is an opportunity for Whittlesea Council to start the process of rebuilding trust with their community.
Reports that the monitor has found that governance at the Council had ‘irretrievably collapsed’ and that personal differences have rendered the Council dysfunctional are concerning.
Cr Coral Ross, President of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) said all Victorian communities have the right to expect honesty, accountability and transparency from their councils.
“The behaviours identified by the monitor at Whittlesea are not representative of our local government sector.”
We understand the monitor has recommended the Council be dismissed and administrators appointed until at least the 2024 general elections for local government. An interim administrator will be appointed so council responsibilities can continue after the council has been dismissed.
"Now the work begins to restore public confidence in the council, so that the Whittlesea community can enjoy local services, programs and infrastructure and return to a democratically elected local council in 2024.”
For further information, contact MAV President Cr Coral Ross on 0438 005 225 or the MAV Communications Unit on (03) 9667 5590.