Two government-appointed monitors will oversee the appointment of Greater Geelong council’s new chief executive.
On January 25, the state government announced it would appoint monitors to oversee the recruitment process amid concerns around integrity and transparency.
Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said the monitors would be appointed on the recommendation of chief municipal inspector Michael Stefanovic and had exercised her power to direct council not to employ a chief executive.
“Councils are the level of government closest to the people and it is imperative that they represent the communities they serve,” she said.
“We expect councils to maintain a standard of good governance and this process of installing two monitors is about ensuring that it occurs at the City of Greater Geelong.”
Mr Stefanovic has been engaged in an ongoing investigation into the city and its chief executive appointment process.
A Local Government Inspectorate spokesperson said the investigation was the result of a “complaint in relation to matters regarding Greater Geelong council” but would provide no further details.
“The inspectorate deals with complaints or requests for investigation in strict confidence and does not provide comment on investigations that are yet to be finalised,” the spokesperson said.
A government spokesperson said the investigations had raised concerns that the process had been “compromised”.
“Municipal monitors will work closely with council to support the recruitment process and provide recommendations to the minister on any further action that may be needed.”
A council spokesperson said the city would work with the appointed monitors to ensure the process was conducted appropriately.
“The City of Greater Geelong is committed to delivering the best outcomes for its community through its robust good governance processes, integrity and transparency,” the spokesperson said.
“Strong leadership is vital for the city and securing the best candidate for the role of chief executive officer will be critical to Greater Geelong’s future.
“We look forward to working with the Victorian government to ensure exceptional leadership for the City of Greater Geelong.”
Ms Horne said the monitors would be appointed “soon”, with information concerning their terms and other details to be outlined “at a later date”.
