City’s municipal monitors named

THE state government has announced the names of the two municipal monitors who will guide the recruitment of the City of Greater Geelong’s next chief executive officer.

On Friday last week, Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne revealed Prue Digby and Peter Dorling would support the city and oversee its “transition back to good governance” over the next 12 months.

The decision to appoint municipal monitors was first announced last month following advice from both Local Government Victoria and the Chief Municipal Inspector (CMI).

The CMI recommended Ms Horne exercise her ministerial powers under the Local Government Act 2020 in relation to the employment of a CEO.

The CMI has been investigating the City of Greater Geelong and its CEO appointment process. This investigation has focused on integrity and transparency, and is ongoing.

Ms Digby and Mr Dorling have considerable experience in state and local government matters.Mr Dorling has previously been appointed as administrator at the city between 2016-18 – when the state government sacked all 13 councillors – and a municipal monitor in 2019.

Ms Digby was appointed as a municipal monitor to the South Gippsland Shire council between 2021 and 2022.

Martin Cutter began as the city’s CEO in June 2018 but unexpectedly announced in July 2022 he would resign from the role at the end of September. Kaarina Phyland has been the city’s acting CEO since then.

“Both Prue Digby and Peter Dorling have extensive experience, skills and knowledge to effectively guide the City of Greater Geelong to refocus on its community,” Ms Horne said.

“Residents of Greater Geelong deserve a council that represents their needs. As the level of government closest to the people, councils play a vital role in communities across the state and it’s imperative they have a positive and inclusive culture.”

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan acknowledged the appointment of the monitors.

“We look forward to working with Prue Digby and Peter Dorling to secure the best candidate for the role of chief executive officer,” he said last week.

“We expect this will be a constructive and positive process.

“We are committed to delivering the best outcomes for our community.”