Council made the decision at a special meeting on Thursday 15 October 2026. The termination took effect at 5:00pm on Monday 19 October. In its statement, council said a change in executive leadership was “in the best interests of the organisation”, having regard to its current and future organisational needs, strategic priorities and leadership demands.

Council thanked Mr Hart for his service and commitment to the Kingston community since he joined in January 2024. It has appointed Director Corporate Services Ms Heather Schinckel as Acting Chief Executive Officer, for a short period until it determines interim leadership arrangements. Council said it will shortly begin recruiting a new Chief Executive Officer and would not be making any further comment.

According to Adelaide Now, Mr Hart is the sixteenth South Australian council chief executive to leave their role in the past two years. The outlet lists earlier exits including Adelaide Hills, Victor Harbor, Mid Murray, Onkaparinga, Peterborough, Tumby Bay, and Clare and Gilbert Valleys. The circumstances differ, with some resignations and some terminations.