The Western Australian government has asked the City of Melville to resolve a number of ongoing governance issues.
The issues are outlined in a letter to the city from the Department of Local Government.
The department’s concerns relate to the way in which council member behavioural complaints are dealt with; the impact of inappropriate questioning of staff by council members; behaviour between council members and towards staff.
A number of other matters have also been raised, including the involvement of council members in operational matters, and the increasing cost of legal services.
The letter, signed by acting Executive Director of Local Government Mustafa Yildiz, says the department is concerned that the issues are adversely impacting the relationships between council members and administration staff, leading to further dysfunction and council decision making that will not likely be in the best interests of the community.
The department is seeking a response by the 28th April, including an approach and strategy for prioritising and improving governance practices at the city.
The city has issued a statement confirming receipt of the letter, and that it will work collaboratively with the department on addressing the concerns. It says the city and the council are working to better understand the Department’s concerns and have requested a briefing to support this process.
It has also set up a dedicated web page with the latest information on the process.
Source: City of Melville media release; City of Melville dedicated webpage