July 18th 2024.
A recent report has raised serious concerns about the functioning and management of Sydney's Liverpool City Council. The report, which was commissioned by NSW Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig, has prompted a state inquiry into the council and its members. Minister Hoenig has expressed his intention to suspend the council and potentially take further action based on the interim report, which highlights allegations across various areas of the council.
According to the report, an initial investigation revealed that key positions within the council, including the CEO and Directors, were filled by individuals with little to no experience. It also found that these individuals were receiving hefty remuneration packages of up to $250,000 without any evidence of market-testing or merit-based selection. These findings have raised concerns about the council's hiring practices and allocation of public funds.
Among other allegations, the report also mentions inappropriate record-keeping and a toxic work environment where bullying, intimidation, and sexual harassment were not adequately addressed. Female employees also reported a gender bias within the council, where male employees were given preferential treatment for career advancement opportunities. Furthermore, the report highlights direct interference from the mayor and councillors in the assessment of development applications, as well as the misuse of public funds.
As a result of these alarming allegations, the NSW government has initiated a public inquiry into the council. Minister Hoenig has also informed Mayor Ned Mannoun of his intentions to suspend the entire council and delay the upcoming local election until the inquiry is completed. In a statement, Minister Hoenig emphasized the importance of integrity and serving the community's best interests, which he believes is not being upheld by the council.
Mayor Mannoun, on the other hand, has responded to the investigation by calling the allegations a "shopping list of unfounded claims." He expressed his concerns about the council's capacity to respond to the report and participate in the inquiry if they are suspended. He also questioned the minister's motive for denying the council and its elected officials access to council support. Mayor Mannoun plans to review the interim report and provide a detailed response in the near future.
Meanwhile, Acting CEO Jason Breton has assured that the council will fully cooperate with the Office of Local Government and participate in the public inquiry once it is launched. He also stated that the council is currently reviewing the interim report and its contents to provide a comprehensive response. In the meantime, the council will continue to serve the community and deliver the high-quality services that residents and ratepayers have come to expect. Breton also commended the council employees for their hard work and assured them of his support during this challenging time.
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