The City of South Perth continues to grapple with internal issues, as its local government monitor will remain in place for an additional 49 days. Local Government Inspector Tony Brown appointed Murdoch University Chancellor Gail McGowan as the city's monitor in February to oversee operations following allegations of dysfunction within the council.
Monitor's Role Extended
Ms McGowan's responsibilities include attending council and committee meetings, inspecting documents, reviewing governance practices, and monitoring relationships between council members and between the council and city employees. She also provides guidance on roles and responsibilities. Her appointment, which began on February 25, was originally scheduled to conclude on April 29, with a report to be submitted to Mr Brown. However, she will now continue until June 17, working two days a week at a cost of $900 per day, totaling an additional $12,600 funded by ratepayers.
Ongoing Dysfunction
Evidence of the council's challenges emerged at a February 24 meeting that lasted five-and-a-half hours before being adjourned to March 4, where it continued for another three hours, including an hour-long debate over whether Mayor Greg Milner should maintain his own diary. In March, Mr Brown indicated he was considering further steps to address the problem-plagued council.
CEO Liz Ledger left her position just three months into the role, citing serious concerns and plans to hire an external consultant for a psychosocial review. Mayor Milner subsequently presented an urgent motion to block the review, which the council supported. Ms Ledger remains on personal leave, with director of infrastructure services Anita Amprimo serving as acting CEO. Ms Amprimo has stated she will proceed with the psychosocial risk assessment regardless of the council's stance.
