The monitor will work closely with council to prevent issues from escalating and best support them to perform their duties successfully.
Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane announced monitors will soon be appointed in Moira Shire Council along with Wodonga City Council and Darebin City Council to address concerns about governance and councillor conduct.
Moira Shire Council issued a statement last Friday welcoming the news that a monitor will be appointed.
“CEO Clare Keenan wrote to the minister last week and raised concerns about the safety of her staff and councillors because of the behaviour of one councillor, particularly after correspondence from the mayor to the councillor did not rectify the potential breaches of code of conduct,” the statement read.
“The CEO raised concerns with the minister that she was unable to fulfil her statutory responsibility to provide safety in the workplace.
“She sought urgent assistance from the Minister to advise and exercise powers, particularly in the area of Councillor Code of Conduct.
“CEO Clare Keenan and Mayor Libro Mustica thank the Minister for taking their concerns seriously and acting so promptly.”
Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane said the government is serious about improving culture in local councils.
“We want to encourage positive practices and stop negative behaviour,” he said.
“Municipal monitors have proven to be effective at guiding councils to make improvements in governance that help them better serve their communities.
“We expect councillors to maintain high standards and practise good governance – which is what people rightfully expect from their elected representatives,” Minister Leane said.