Monitor appointment welcomed

Published on 14 August 2024

Horsham Rural City Council (HRCC) Mayor Robyn Gulline has welcomed the appointment of municipal monitor Steven Kingshott.

Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne MP on Tuesday announced Mr Kingshott would support good governance processes and practices at HRCC from 2 September 2024 until 30 June 2025.

“I would like to thank Minister Horne and Executive Director of Local Government Victoria, Mike Gooey for their support on this issue – we are all eager to ensure the best outcome for HRCC and appreciate any guidance that assists us in achieving this,” Cr Gulline said. 

“I encourage our community, staff, and Councillors to assist the monitor in his duties,” she said.

Mr Kingshott’s appointment is the second monitor to work with Council during this term.

The first, Jude Holt, finished her appointment in January 2023 and her report called for action to encourage more community leaders to consider becoming a councillor. Her recommendations can be found on Council’s website.

“Ms Holt provided Council with invaluable learnings and support,” Cr Gulline said.

“She provided an extra layer of education for Council in our pursuit of good governance.”

However, Cr Gulline said, in appointing Mr Kingshott, the Minster was responding to serious concerns about governance and conduct.

“The Terms of Reference to Mr Kingshott’s appointment make it clear he has been appointed to assess Council’s ability to function properly.

“I look forward to working with Mr Kingshott and Council to ensure we can continue delivering great things for our community,” she said.

Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla said the operations of Council would continue as usual during the monitor’s term.  

“The community should be reassured that bins will still be collected, maternal and child health appointments will still take place, lost pets will still be rescued and depot crews will still be out and about undertaking their works programs,” Mr Bhalla said.

“Likewise, projects and budget initiatives currently being undertaken by Council staff will not be impacted by this process, and Council’s day to day operations will not change,” he said.