Inquiry Launched into Dysfunction at City of Perth Council

The City of Perth Council is facing an official inquiry as the local government inspector aims to investigate longstanding issues within the troubled council.

Local Government Inspector Tony Brown announced that the investigation is expected to take approximately three months and will cost around $120,000. Brown emphasized that this process is designed to be efficient and effective, contrasting it with a previous lengthy investigation that cost taxpayers $7.2 million.

This inquiry follows a January report revealing a critical breakdown in the relationship between the council and its management. In response, Brown had appointed former Kwinana mayor Carol Adams as a monitor to enhance accountability and improve decision-making within the council. While Brown shared that he has communicated the monitor's findings, he did not disclose specific details regarding the recommended actions aimed at improving governance.

This inquiry marks a significant step as it is the first to be conducted under a new oversight framework, which promises stricter scrutiny of local councils. The inspector's final report will include recommendations that could lead to the suspension or dismissal of council members, although any such actions would ultimately depend on the local government minister's decision.

Source: www.abc.net.au