The City of South Perth council has voted to extend the appointment of monitor Gail McGowan for a third time, despite ongoing confusion about what has been achieved since her appointment nearly four months ago. The extension, requested by Mayor Greg Milner, was unanimously supported by the council during a special meeting on Tuesday night.
Extension Request and Confusion
Mayor Greg Milner called the special council meeting to formally request that Local Government Inspector Tony Brown extend Ms McGowan's appointment until August 17. Her current term was set to end on June 17. Despite the unanimous vote, several councillors expressed concerns about the lack of clarity on achievements.
Acting CEO Anita Amprimo confirmed that no action plan has been developed or drafted, responding to a question from Councillor Tim Houweling. According to Ms McGowan's terms of appointment, she is tasked with assisting the city in developing an action plan for governance and relationship improvements.
Councillors Voice Concerns
Councillor Bronwyn Waugh stated she had limited information on what improvements had been made. "As an elected member, I'm struggling to identify what specific improvements have been achieved," she said. "I'm not satisfied that we have sufficient information to support the proposed extension."
Councillor Hayley Prendiville echoed these concerns, seeking clarity on how the monitor has provided a stable influence and what specific actions have occurred. She asked what information would accompany the formal letter to justify the extension.
Mayor Milner acknowledged ongoing challenges, including key personnel on leave, higher-than-usual employee vacancies, and many staff working in acting capacities. He described Ms McGowan's presence as a "positive and stabilising influence" and said her continued presence would be helpful for good governance.
Attempt to Amend Terms
Councillor Tim Houweling proposed amending the terms of reference to move from an investigation phase to an implementation phase, aiming to make the monitor's role more effective given the cost of approximately $900 per day. However, his amendment was not successful, as Acting CEO Amprimo noted that the terms are determined by the Local Government Inspector.
Background and Costs
Ms McGowan was appointed on February 25 to observe council and committee meetings, review governance practices, and inspect city documents amid allegations of dysfunction. Her initial term was set to end on April 29 but was first extended to June 17. The cost of the monitor remains at $900 per day, paid by ratepayers, with Ms McGowan working two days per week.
The proposed extension would allow the monitor to remain while a workplace psychosocial risk assessment is completed, expected by late July to early August. Findings may be relevant to Ms McGowan's final report to the Local Government Inspector.
Internal Instability
The city has faced internal instability, including senior departures and governance concerns. In March, CEO Liz Ledger went on leave just three months into the job after raising concerns and proposing an external psychosocial review. Five councillors, including the mayor, voted to stop the review, but Acting CEO Amprimo confirmed she would proceed with the assessment regardless of council opinion.
The final decision on the extension rests with the Local Government Inspector.
