Tasmania’s Local Government Code of Conduct panel has found a Glenorchy City Council alderman in breach of parts of the code, and imposed a three month suspension from office.
The complaint against Alderman Kelly Sims was made by Mr Beau Thomson in relation to a number of Facebook posts and an email exchange.
In investigating the complaint, the panel described posts of a vindictive nature; statements that intended to cause detriment of other parties and improperly influence ratepayers in the lead up to local government elections; and actions with the potential to reflect adversely on the reputation of the council.
In addition to imposing the three month suspension, the panel has made a referral to the Director of Local Government in relation to some of the actions investigated.
Excerpt from Panel determination report:
“She has indicated no remorse for her actions and does not appear to understand that her behaviour could not be considered reasonable when so many of her damaging statements were made without any evidence whatsoever. Additionally, the Panel considers that her making threats against the complainant and his fiancé, and the Panel, is completely unacceptable and in addition, amount to bullying and harassing conduct which may well constitute attempting to obstruct, prevent or pervert the due course of justice or the administration of the law. This matter has been referred to the Director of Local Government.”
The three month suspension period took effect from 23rd January, and Alderman Sim’s profile has been removed from the Council website. The panel determination is to be tabled at the Council’s meeting on 30th January.
Read the Council report here, and the panel’s determination report along with a letter to the council from the Director of Local Government here. (from p.19).