By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
CASEY Council will be overseen by a short-term monitor after a Victorian Ombudsman’s report found the council acted in an “unjust” and in part illegal fashion over a special charge scheme against residents in Market Lane, Narre Warren South.
Ombudsman Deborah Glass criticised the council for increasing interest rates on the charge for sealing the lane in a closed council meeting in 2014.
“We concluded that the council had acted in a way that was wrong, unreasonable, unjust and in two respects, contrary to law.
“In short, the council’s actions were unfair.”
Most of the 37 property owners were against the charge, which was initially between $15,000-$20,000 plus interest if paid in 15 years.
Ratepayers were initially told the interest would be 4.25 per cent. It was lifted to 7.5 per cent in the closed council meeting, by which time the property owners’ right to object had expired.
The Ombudsman recommended that Casey refund the interest charged above 4.25 per cent.
Local Government Minister Natalie Hutchins said a monitor would be appointed for up to 12 weeks to examine and oversee governance at Casey.
“The Ombudsman’s findings against Casey City Council are completely unacceptable – ratepayers rightly expect honesty and accountability from their local council.
“We’re taking action so Narre Warren ratepayers get the transparency they deserve, and our review of the Local Government Act will ensure that also happens with councils right across the board.”
Casey Council has been contacted for comment.
