A joint statement from Moira Shire CEO Clare Keenan and Mayor Libro Mustica explained Ms Keenan wrote to Local Government Minister Shaun Leane last week to raise concerns about the safety of her staff and councillors, due to the councillor’s behaviour.
Correspondence between Cr Mustica and the councillor in question did not rectify the potential breaches of the code of conduct.
Ms Keenan also raised concerns and sought “urgent assistance” from the minister, saying she was unable to fulfil her statutory responsibility to provide a safe workplace.
The statement said they welcomed the monitor’s appointment and thank the Victorian Government for taking their concerns seriously and acting promptly.
Mr Leane said the government was serious about improving local council culture, encouraging positive practices and stopping negative behaviour.
“We expect councillors to maintain high standards and practice good governance, which is what people rightfully expect from their elected representatives,” he said.
“Municipal monitors have proven to be effective at guiding councils to make improvements in governance that help them better serve their communities.”
The monitor will be appointed in the coming weeks and will regularly report to the minister on council progress and if further action is needed.
Darebin Shire Council and Wodonga City Council are also set to get a municipal monitor, which will also help the two councils appoint a CEO each.
They are set to work with each council to prevent escalating issues and help councillors perform their duties successfully.
It comes as the government conducted the Local Government Culture Project study into what influences council culture last year.
The project included broader local government engagement with key themes and advice to be given to the minister for consideration.
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