No one is surprised to hear tonight that Lismore City Councillors voted 6 to 4 to terminate the employment contract of the General Manager Michael Donnelly under the no-fault clause, effective immediately.
Mayor Steve Krieg Council thanked Mr Donnelly for the work he has done over the past 12 months. ‘He has had a positive impact on staff morale and turning Council on to the path towards financial sustainability,’ said Mayor Krieg.
If this is the case, many are asking why was his employment terminated?
John Walker appointed as Interim GM
Mayor Steve Krieg said Council has resolved to appoint John Walker in the role of Interim General Manager for 12 months, during which time a recruitment process will be undertaken to permanently fill the position.
‘My team was elected with a mandate of change and we have a vision for the future of Lismore,’ said Mayor Krieg.
‘We believe Mr Walker is the best person to implement this vision.’
The statement continued by saying that Mr Walker has over 10 years experience in local government, both in the Northern Rivers at Richmond Valley Council and in Western Australia.
It is common knowledge that Mr Walker left his position in Western Australia, at the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Council after he was suspended early in 2021 amid allegations of workplace misconduct.
A rescission motion
Following Lismore City Council’s vote during the Confidential Session on Monday night relating to the termination of the contact with its current General Manager Michael Donnelly, a rescission motion was lodged by three Councillors.
This means Council cannot act upon the motion until it is again brought before a meeting of Councillors.
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