The City of Perth is set to incur significant expenses following the appointment of a governance monitor. The local government has received a bill amounting to $900 per day for the services of Carol Adams, who has been selected by Local Government Inspector Tony Brown. Over a 13-week period, the cost will exceed $35,000, not including additional superannuation costs.
Adams, a former mayor of the City of Kwinana and a seasoned lawyer, began her role on March 25, 2024. She will work three days a week, assessing governance challenges within the City of Perth and providing insights to Brown. “She will report to me while working proactively with the City of Perth to assist in resolving governance challenges,” Brown stated.
Concerns Over Governance Spending
Councillor Catherine Lezer expressed her dismay over the situation, calling it “embarrassing.” She highlighted that just five years prior, the city had faced a similar inquiry, which had already cost approximately $1.5 million. “It’s disappointing that we’re having to spend so much of ratepayers’ money on this,” she said.
During her tenure, which concludes on April 17, 2024, Adams will review the City of Perth’s governance practices and decision-making processes. Her responsibilities include observing council meetings, evaluating documents, and analyzing the city’s governance framework. This thorough examination aims to address the high-profile issues that have recently arisen within the council and its administration.
A special meeting of the city’s audit, risk, and improvement committee is scheduled for Wednesday at 16:00 to discuss a confidential item labelled “psychosocial risk assessment report.” CEO Michelle Reynolds will oversee the report, which includes a set of confidential recommendations. Committee members will include Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds, Councillors Raj Doshi, Liam Gobbert, and Lezer, along with two independent members. Adams is also expected to attend the meeting.
The ongoing scrutiny of the City of Perth’s governance highlights the challenges faced by local authorities in maintaining effective administration while managing public funds. As the council moves forward, the outcomes of Adams’ assessment will be keenly anticipated by both officials and constituents alike.
