AN INVESTIGATION into mayoral election interference in the City of Greater Dandenong has been dropped due to insufficient evidence.
The Victorian Local Government Investigations and Compliance Inspectorate started an investigation into the council’s mayoral election of 2007 and 2008’ last September.
In his report, chief municipal inspector David Wolf said there was insufficient evidence to support a prosecution for breach of the Local Government Act 1989.
“Accordingly, no further action in relation to this matter will be taken…”
Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti said all councillors had noted its findings.
“The Inspectorate has also made certain general observations regarding the principles of councillor conduct and as sworn councillors of this city, we are fully aware that the conduct of elected representatives is crucial to the success and performance of council,” Cr Memeti said. “We believe that the City of Greater Dandenong is a highly performing council – evidenced by recent independent and objective measurement – but we also recognise that all organisations can improve and I am committed to exploring any further improvements we can make for the betterment of this great city.”
Cr Memeti said that the matter had been addressed by the council in a confidential manner required by the Inspectorate and the principles of good governance.
“With these findings and observations now shared, I intend that council makes no further comment but rather, focuses fully on the needs and expectations of our community,” Cr Memeti said.
-Melissa Meehan
