TWO City of Perth chief executives are on stress leave and there are calls to suspend the Council.
Local Government Minister David Templeman spoke to 6PR from Albany this morning and said he is expecting a report from his department about Perth City Council within 48 hours.
Chief executive Martin Mileham is on leave “until further notice” amid claims of workplace bullying.
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READ NOWMORE: City of Perth chief executive on leave until further notice
Acting chief executive Robert Mianich was in the role for a few days before also taking personal leave.
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A meeting has been called for tonight to allow councillors to appoint an acting chief executive is likely to go ahead, despite Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi disagreeing with its intent.
Mr Templeman refuted that he should move immediately to sack the council but did confirm that he wants to convene a meeting with all councillors tomorrow for a ‘frank’ discussion.
“If I make a decision to suspend the council, I need to get legal advice,” he said.
“It’s a costly exercise.”
Mr Templeman said accusations of bullying are serious.
Mrs Scaffidi also spoke on this morning’s radio program.
6PR host Gareth Parker asked her if it were time for her and the whole council to step down.
“I can’t make a definitive statement like that,” Mrs Scaffidi said.
“I’m looking forward to the department’s report to the minister.
“I’ll form a view once I see the report.”
Parker suggested Economic Development and Activation director Annaliese Battista could be named the council’s new acting chief executive after tonight’s meeting.
The State opposition has also backed calls for the WA Government to suspend the Council.
“There is no doubt the working environment at the Council is toxic and it has damaged its reputation,” Opposition Leader Mike Nahan said on Tuesday.
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