Central Coast Council Administrator, Mr Dick Persson AM welcomes the Honourable Shelley Hancock MP, Minister for Local Government’s announcement today of establishing an independent public inquiry into the performance of Central Coast Council. 

Mr Persson said today’s announcement by the Minister to stop the suspended Councillors returning next week is great news for both the community and the Council. 

“My Final Report recommended this course of action as there is still a lot to do before the Council recovers from the disruption of the past three years. The new CEO and new Administrator need to continue the ‘recovery’ without the political distractions which would have inevitably occurred if the Councillors had been allowed to return,” said Mr Persson.

“The Minister’s decision to appoint Mr Rik Hart as the new Administrator is an excellent choice that will ensure continuity in regard to the reform process well underway. Mr Hart and Mr Farmer will make a very strong and experienced team,” said Mr Persson. 

Mr Persson’s term was due to end on Thursday 29 April, however has been extended for an extra two weeks to allow Mr Hart to complete some personal business.   

“I recommended an independent public inquiry in part because it was the only way the Minister could prevent the suspended Councillors returning next week, but also because it will allow people to raise issues they still feel are unanswered,” Mr Persson said.

“A further suspension will also allow Council to focus on regaining the community’s confidence and to achieve unfinished merger related work. Thank you Minister Hancock,” said Mr Persson.