Cessnock City Council’s General Manager, Lotta Jackson, tendered her resignation at last night’s Ordinary Council Meeting, with the Council accepting her decision in a confidential session.
Ms Jackson will be taking a period of accrued leave before formally vacating the role on 6 May.
Council’s Director of Corporate and Community Services, Robert Maginnity, has been appointed to act in the role of General Manager until recruitment for an interim or permanent replacement occurs.
“Ms Jackson said that with the borders finally being open, she has decided to plan to visit her close and extended family that she hasn’t seen for years, and the experience of COVID has certainly assisted her decision,” Council said in a statement.
“She also believes that this is the best timing with the newly elected Councillors having an opportunity to select a new General Manager early in their term.”
Cessnock City Council Mayor, Jay Suvaal, thanked Ms Jackson for her service to both the council and the broader Cessnock community.
“Lotta had the difficult job of leading the organisation during a period of unprecedented challenges which have included catastrophic bushfires, major flooding and a once in 100 year pandemic, and always tried to put the community first,” Mayor Suvaal said.
“I personally thank Lotta for the support she has shown me as Mayor and wish her all the best for her next endeavours.”
Ms Jackson said the community was in good hands with Mayor Suvaal.
“I know that the future is bright for Cessnock LGA and that it will be a continued growing and thriving place to live, work and visit,” she said.