By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Casey Council has been formally dismissed, with its councillors replaced by Interim Administrator Noelene Duff.
On 19 February, State Governor Linda Dessau gave the Royal Assent to a Bill for Casey Council’s dismissal – which rushed through State Parliament the day before.
Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek announced Ms Duff will run the council for the next 90 days.
A panel of three State-appointed Administrators will then take over until the next Casey councillor elections in October 2024.
Mr Somyurek said the Government acted swiftly to implement Municipal Monitor Laurinda Gardner’s recommendations to dismiss the council.
“Through the appointment of Ms Duff residents and ratepayers will see an improvement in the standards of conduct, transparency and integrity in the City of Casey.
“Ms Duff will work with the CEO to ensure that the Council is focused on governing in the best interests of the local community and providing first class services.”
Ms Duff had served until recently as City of Whitehorse’s chief executive for 19 years.
In the 2020 Australia Day Honours List, she was awarded a Public Service Medal in recognition of her service to local government.
Casey Council has been formally dismissed, with its councillors replaced by Interim Administrator Noelene Duff.
On 19 February, State Governor Linda Dessau gave the Royal Assent to a Bill for Casey Council’s dismissal – which rushed through State Parliament the day before.
The councillors will be effectively swept from office at midnight on 19 February.
Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek announced Ms Duff will run the council for the next 90 days.
A panel of three State-appointed Administrators will then take over until the next Casey councillor elections in October 2024.
Mr Somyurek said the Government acted swiftly to implement Municipal Monitor Laurinda Gardner’s recommendations to dismiss the council.
“Through the appointment of Ms Duff residents and ratepayers will see an improvement in the standards of conduct, transparency and integrity in the City of Casey.
“Ms Duff will work with the CEO to ensure that the Council is focused on governing in the best interests of the local community and providing first class services.”
Ms Duff had served until recently as City of Whitehorse’s chief executive for 19 years.
In the 2020 Australia Day Honours List, she was awarded a Public Service Medal in recognition of her service to local government.
Casey chief executive Glenn Patterson, who is expected to meet with Ms Duff this week, noted Ms Duff’s experience and credentials.
“We welcome the announcement which gives both the organisation and our communities some form of clarity following the recent period of change and uncertainty,” Mr Patterson said.
“I look forward to meeting with Ms Duff and discussing transition arrangements, including how we can work together to best represent the interests of our Casey communities.
“Officers will do everything possible to work collaboratively with Ms Duff to deliver and advocate for infrastructure and services for our rapidly growing community.”
