After yesterday’s official dismissal of the members of Barkly Regional Council, Local Government Minister Chansey Paech has stated it was not a decision he took lightly.

Minister Paech says, however, that it was necessary to ensure the effective operation of BRC for the region’s community.

“Many of the former elected members joined Council to make a difference for the communities of the Barkly region,” he said.

“The decision is not a judgement of the character of these individuals, but rather on the failings of the council as a whole to meet the obligations of their role.

“Since the Councillors were suspended, the Official Manager and Council CEOs have led significant improvements, and the community can now look forward to the benefits of an effective and well-governed Council.”

The final report by external investigator Ruth Morley revealed:

• Council members did not comprehend their roles regarding strategic matters.
• Members did not seek necessary financial information for decision-making.
• Council did not appropriately manage the CEO.
• Conflicts of interest were not properly managed.
• Audit and Risk Committee meetings were neglected.
• Matters were regularly considered in confidential meetings that were not consistent with the Act.
• Poorly conducted council meetings with conflicts between council members.
• Council members had minimal involvement in or understanding of strategic planning.
• A lack of communication with the community about Council decisions and projects.
• Local authorities were not properly administered, supported, or engaged with by Council.

A new Council will be formed after a Barkly Local Government Election on 2 November, with the official declaration of votes on 17 November.

This article appeared in Tennant & District Times, 21 June 2024.