On the Wednesday, 19th February edition of the Local Government News Roundup:
- Mayors under pressure to resign from within
- Brimbank calls for rail before runway in a new campaign
- More than half a million failure to vote notices on their way to Victorians
- An interim federal report into local government sustainability released
- Council spending under the microscope in NSW
- Mackay CEO Resigns Amid Controversy
- A former CEO launches legal action against a council
plus more local government news from across Australia and beyond.
Brought to you by the Victorian Local Governance Association, with support from Symphony3 – simple, connected customer experiences.
Listen to this episode here, and find the link for your podcast player here.
Here is all the news from episode 429:
Victorian Roundup:
Whittlesea City Council has unanimously passed a motion of no confidence in its mayor Aidan McLindon, after receiving a petition calling for his resignation from the office of mayor.
The petition with 1153 signatures, stated that residents have lost faith in the ability of Cr McLindon to carry out the duties of the mayoral office after his decision to contest the recent Werribee by-election after just 9 weeks in office.
The council has called on him to resign the office of mayor, and will send its resolution and the petition to the Minister for Local Government for information.
Cr McLindon declared a conflict of interest in relation to the matter and left the chamber while the matter was discussed.
A supporter of Cr McLindon in the gallery was asked to leave after repeatedly interjecting during the council’s consideration of the motion.
Cr McLindon returned to close the meeting and made no immediate comment about the resolution.
Brimbank City Council has launched a ‘Rail before Runway’ campaign, advocating for the completion of Melbourne Airport Rail before the construction of a third runway at Melbourne Airport.
The initiative comes as Melbourne Airport’s third runway is set for completion in 2031, with passenger numbers projected to reach 83 million by 2046.
The movement is gaining significant public support, with 72% of surveyed Melbournians backing the prioritisation of airport rail link and improved bus services over other projects.
Extensive electrical vandalism at Toomuc Recreation Reserve has disrupted power to sporting pavilions and sewer services, prompting Cardinia Shire Council to implement temporary measures including a generator, security fencing, and mobile CCTV.
The council expects power to be restored within two weeks while investigations continue, and Victoria Police is seeking public assistance for any information regarding the incident.
The damage includes approximately 400 meters of cut copper cables and damaged switchboards, affecting operations at both Toomuc Reserve and Cardinia Life facilities.
East Gippsland farmers will soon have their say on the future operation of the region’s livestock exchange.
The Shire Council has announced a community consultation process starting next month, as part of an ongoing commercial review of the saleyards.
The council has stressed it is not selling the facility, but rather seeking the most effective operating model while maintaining council ownership.
Industry experts have already completed an initial review, consulting with livestock agents and staff.
Around half a million Victorian residents who missed voting in last October’s local council elections will soon be receiving notices in their mailboxes.
Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel has emphasised that the notices are not fines, but rather an opportunity for residents to explain their absence from the polls.
Residents will have 28 days to respond in writing with their explanation. Those who fail to do so face a $99 penalty.
The Commissioner strongly advises providing a detailed explanation with supporting evidence to increase the chances of being excused.
Eight Victorian animal shelters are joining forces this weekend in a major adoption drive called Mission Adoptable. The initiative, running from February 21st to 23rd, aims to find forever homes for pets across the state.
Participating shelters including the Bendigo Animal Relief Centre are offering significantly reduced adoption fees.
Dogs and cats will be available for just $50, while smaller pets like rabbits can be adopted for $20.
Victorian Briefs:
The Shepparton Cycling Precinct Velodrome has received a significant upgrade with new 300 lux LED lighting that meets AusCycling standards.
The improvements include a new multi-use pavilion and enhanced BMX facilities.
Cardinia Shire Council has endorsed key advocacy priorities for the upcoming Federal Election, focusing on four major projects: the Lang Lang sand truck bypass, a road sealing package, Cardinia Life redevelopment and Princes Highway intersection upgrades.
The projects aim to address critical infrastructure needs in one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities, where three new households move in daily.
Two new kindergartens in Dimboola and Nhill have been officially opened.
Funded by the Victorian Government through different grant programs, the facilities are operated by Emerge Early Years Services on behalf of Hindmarsh Shire Council.
Coming on Friday, on the next edition of VLGA Connect, I’ll be joined by Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh to talk about the council’s move towards open councillor briefing sessions, and the latest on the McRae landslip.
He says he is still waiting for a reply from the state government after writing to seek assistance almost a month ago:
National Roundup:
In interim report from a federal parliamentary committee inquiry into local government sustainability has been released.
The inquiry received 287 submissions, and held 16 public hearings around the country.
The purpose of the interim report is to provide an update on work undertaken to date, and to highlight emerging themes.
They include an exponential expansion of the role of local governments beyond the three R of roads, rates and rubbish; the impact of evolving infrastructure requirements, service delivery obligations and cost shifting; and challenges with the application of Federal Assistance Grants.
The evidence received is being reviewed and the committee will make its final recommendations in due course.
The Australian Local Government Association says the Parliamentary inquiry’s interim report confirms the urgent need for reform of local government funding models, and is calling for increased federal funding to support councils facing mounting responsibilities and financial pressures.
NSW:
The City of Sydney has become the first council in New South Wales to pass a Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions motion, according to a report from City Hub.
The decision, made on Monday night, confirms the council will not conduct business with companies involved in Israeli settlements.
The motion received near-unanimous support, with only one dissenting vote from Liberal councillor Lyndon Gannon.
Greens councillors Sylvie Ellsmore and Matthew Thompson praised the decision as a crucial step in ensuring community funds are not linked to human rights abuses.
BDS Australia has welcomed the decision, while the Australian Jewish Association has strongly criticised the move, claiming it could lead to increased antisemitism in Sydney.
The Daily Telegraph has reported that the 2016 council amalgamations in Sydney, which cost $627 million to implement, have largely failed to deliver on promised cost savings.
Most merged councils are now spending significantly more on staffing than their pre-merger equivalents.
Former Premier Mike Baird’s promise of $2 billion in savings over 20 years has not materialised, with only two out of eight amalgamated councils in Greater Sydney spending less on total staffing costs than before the mergers.
Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery has criticised Newcastle City Council for what she describes as excessive spending, including Christmas party expenses and ticketless parking fines, while highlighting concerns about high rates.
The Newcastle Herald reported that the council has defended its financial management, citing strong performance metrics and budget surplus, while pointing out that it receives fewer government grants than other councils and maintains competitive waste charges.
Lake Macquarie Council has secured temporary accommodation for hundreds of staff displaced by last November’s administrative centre fire.
CEO Morven Cameron says around 400 indoor workers will be based at a former Ausgrid building in Wallsend for the next six months while repairs continue at the Speers Point facility.
The move comes as police investigate an alleged arson attack at the administrative centre on November 27.
A $14.7 million road project in Orange‘s southern outskirts has opened to traffic, with the newly named Brabham Way extending 1.7 km from the Mitchell Highway through a new roundabout at Shiralee Road.
The project, funded by multiple government sources and Orange City Council, includes a $3.1 million upgrade of Shiralee Road and aims to enhance connections between growing residential areas and key health and industrial zones.
Maitland City Council is seeking community input for an updated floodplain risk management study, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the 1955 Hunter Valley flood.
The study, developed in partnership with WMA Water, aims to better understand flood risks and develop management strategies, with a final plan to be exhibited for community comment in 2026.
QLD:
Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen has resigned effective immediately after serving in the role since November 2022.
The resignation follows speculation about his future, with media reports that he was on leave amid allegations that some councillors were discussing his future in informal, off-site meetings.
Executive Officer David McKendry has stepped in as Acting CEO and recruitment will commence for a permanent replacement.
Mayor Greg Williamson has expressed appreciation for Owen’s transformative contributions to the council.
During his tenure, he led major organisational restructuring efforts that successfully reduced red tape and improved service delivery efficiency.
Former Tablelands Regional Council CEO Brian Rinehart has launched legal action against his former employer through the Industrial Relations Commission, according to reporting from the Express Newspaper.
The move comes after his sudden departure last October, when he left the position with nine months remaining on his contract.
The circumstances surrounding Mr Rinehart’s exit remain unclear, with Council only stating he had ‘concluded his term.’
It’s the third CEO turnover for the Council in just four years.
The case is set to resume at the Commission this Thursday.
An independent investigation has found that Gold Coast councillor Brooke Patterson acted aggressively towards council staff on multiple occasions last year.
ABC News reported that she has been ordered to make a public apology and undergo behavioural training.
The investigation substantiated claims that Cr Patterson had aggressively confronted staff during a meeting and was abusive during a phone call.
While Patterson describes her behaviour as ‘direct’ and ‘robust’, City CEO Tim Baker rejected any suggestion that senior staff should be treated differently when it comes to workplace safety.
National Briefs:
Banana Shire Council has released its 2025 Investment Prospectus, showcasing opportunities across renewable energy, manufacturing, resource recovery and agriculture sectors.
The prospectus outlines plans for industrial expansion and workforce development to drive regional economic growth.
Clarence City Council has launched southern Tasmania’s first council-operated soft plastics recycling service.
From February 14, residents can drop off items like plastic bags and food wrapping at two locations in a bid to reduce the 1,420 tonnes of soft plastics currently going to landfill each year.
The collected materials will be processed into new products through partnership with RecycleSmart
Ballina Shire Council has launched a new website featuring enhanced search capabilities, interactive mapping, and integrated community engagement features to improve the digital experience for residents.
The modern platform includes a “What’s Around Me?” tool for discovering local facilities and services.
TAS:
Tensions are running high at Hobart City Council, with four councillors calling for Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds to step down, according to a report from ABC News.
A damning ombudsman’s report found Cr Reynolds breached Tasmania’s personal information laws when she disclosed details about a fellow councillor’s attempt to book the town hall ballroom.
While she acknowledges the findings and has committed to additional training, Cr Reynolds claims the matter is being ‘weaponised’ by a small group of elected members.
The Local Government Minister is reviewing a formal request for action from the four dissenting councillors.
West Coast Mayor Shane Pitt has hailed a significant advocacy victory, after the Prime Minister confirmed legislation to secure the future of the Macquarie Harbour salmon farming industry, and protect all existing jobs.
It follows an 18 month campaign that united the local community, particularly in Strahan.
Mayor Pitt said the community was breathing a collective sigh of relief at the news.
SA:
Adelaide Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith says South Australians are delighted with the news that LIV Golf has secured a long-term commitment to remain in South Australia until at least 2031.
There are plans to relocate to the North Adelaide Golf Course, in a move expected to bring significant economic benefits.
The council previously looked at upgrading the North Adelaide course but Mayor Lomax-Smith said it was determined not be a high priority at the time.
The District Council of Orroroo Carrieton has announced the return of a familiar face to its top job.
Stephen Rufus has been appointed as the Council’s new Chief Executive Officer, a position he previously held from 2014 to 2017.
Mayor Grant Chapman says Mr. Rufus brings valuable experience to the role, having most recently served as Director of Community and Corporate at Port Pirie Regional Council.
The appointment follows the departure of former CEO Paul Simpson in December last year.
Mr. Rufus will take up his new position on March 31st.
WA:
A Perth family is demanding $5,000 in compensation from the City of Swan after their dog was poisoned by castor bean plants growing on council land.
Yahoo News reported that the toxic seeds from the invasive species blew into the family’s backyard from a council-managed reserve, leading to expensive veterinary treatment for ricin poisoning.
The council has initiated removal and spraying operations to manage the invasive weeds, and Mayor Tanya Richardson has confirmed that specialist contractors have been engaged for further spraying and removal of the plants in more inaccessible areas.
Several Perth councils are urging the State Government to intervene in what they’re describing as the worst mosquito breeding season on record.
The Cities of Bayswater, Swan, Belmont, and the Town of Bassendean say they’re struggling to manage unprecedented mosquito numbers along the Swan River.
Bayswater Mayor Filomena Piffaretti says the combination of high tides, increased humidity, and higher temperatures has created perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
Despite using modern technologies like drone-delivered larvicide, local councils say their resources are stretched too thin to effectively combat the problem.
The councils are calling for better funding and a coordinated approach from the WA Department of Health, particularly given that several breeding sites are located on State Government land.
Global Roundup:
UK:
Barry Panter, the Mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme, has tragically passed away following a road accident.
He leaves behind a legacy of public service that included roles in the RAF, South Wales Constabulary, and local government.
His career was marked by dedication to community service, from his military service to his police work and finally as a local councillor and Mayor, during which he focused on raising funds for the Salvation Army and Headway North Staffordshire.
North Somerset Council is set to begin the search for a new Chief Executive following the announcement that Jo Walker will step down from her role in May.
Ms Walker, who has led the council for over six years, is heading back to Gloucestershire County Council where she’ll take up the position of Chief Executive.
During her tenure at North Somerset, Walker oversaw several major infrastructure projects and guided the council through the Covid pandemic.
Council Leader Mike Bell praised her ‘inclusive and forward-thinking’ leadership style.
She’ll begin her new role at Gloucestershire on May 19th.
USA:
In what is being described as a major move toward transparency, officials in Salt Lake City, Utah have unveiled a new online dashboard to monitor the city’s Public Safety Plan progress.
The data reveals encouraging trends, with overall crime dropping 25% in the past three years, despite a slight uptick in violent crime.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall’s ambitious 27-point action plan, launched just last month, aims to tackle both public safety and homelessness concerns.
Speaking about the initiative, Mayor Mendenhall emphasised the importance of public accountability, stating that residents deserve to see the tangible progress being made in their city.
Voters in Katy, Texas will head to the polls this May to decide whether to double the amount of time city council members can serve consecutively.
The proposed change would extend term limits from six to twelve years.
Currently, Katy has one of the shortest term limits in southeast Texas, with council members serving three-year terms with a maximum of six consecutive years.
ABC Local News reported that the measure passed by a narrow three-to-two council vote to be placed on the ballot.
CANADA:
Vancouver City Council has taken a bold stance in response to mounting trade tensions with the United States, according to CTV News.
In a unanimous decision, the council last week passed a motion prioritising Canadian businesses in city procurement contracts.
Mayor Ken Sim emphasised a “Team Canada approach” as the city aims to redirect millions in spending toward domestic suppliers. Last year alone, Vancouver spent over $6 million with American vendors.
Saskatoon City Council and Saskatchewan Party MLAs have met for the first time in 18 years to discuss pressing issues including homelessness, housing, and public safety.
CJWW Radio reported that the meeting focused primarily on addressing homelessness as the top priority, and may lead to more regular discussions between provincial and municipal governments.
NZ:
Hamilton City Council is taking a stand against illegal dumping, approving over two hundred thousand dollars in annual funding to tackle the growing problem.
The initiative, which aligns with the Waikato Times’ ‘Enough of This Rubbish’ campaign, will likely see two new full-time staff members dedicated to addressing dumping hotspots across the city.
Councillor Sarah Thomson says recent surveillance revealed nineteen instances of illegal dumping in just one hour around the university and Five Cross Roads areas.
The new roles will focus on education and behaviour change, working closely with apartment blocks and multi-occupier properties where dumping has been problematic.
Dunedin City Council is expanding its Zero Carbon business support pilot programme to help more small and medium enterprises reduce emissions, cut costs, and strengthen their resilience through customised carbon footprint reports and climate action plans.
The programme, which previously supported 14 businesses across various industries, will enter its second phase in March, offering local businesses the opportunity to become leaders in climate action while improving their bottom line.