Two municipal monitors will be appointed at Wyndham City Council to support good governance, the Victorian Minister for Local Government has announced.
Minister Paul Hamer has nominated the appointments of Jim Gifford and Jo-Anne Mazzeo (pictured, right) as monitors.
Mr Gifford is a local government expert, recently acting as Commissioner on the Whittlesea Commission of Inquiry, while Ms Mazzeo has extensive experience across councillor conduct matters.
Mr Gifford and Ms Mazzeo will focus on service delivery, culture, staff wellbeing, procedures and decision making, the Minister said.
“Victorians expect councils to maintain high standards and these monitors will work to restore the Wyndham community’s confidence in their councillors,” said Mr Hamer.
“Mr Gifford and Ms Mazzeo’s extensive experience will serve them well in their roles.”
The move follows a vote of no confidence in Mayor Preet Singh last week (pictured, left) after he controversially provided a written character reference for a convicted child sex offender.
In his defence, the Mayor wrote on social media: “I understand the distress and concern this situation has caused in the community. The character reference I provided was given prior to my election, I recognise that, regardless of timing, this has raised legitimate questions about judgement. For that, I am deeply sorry.”
“I sincerely apologise for any hurt or harm caused, particularly to the victim and those in our community impacted by this issue.”
All 10 councillors backed the ‘no confidence’ motion, with Councillor Peter Maynard telling the meeting, “He may have done nothing illegal, but it’s morally reprehensible.”
Councllor Maria King said the decision was not made lightly, and “comes with genuine disappointment”.
“The role of Mayor carries a high level of trust, integrity, and transparency. When that trust is impacted, it is our responsibility as Councillors to listen to our community and act,” she stated.
“At the centre of this broader situation is a child and their family, and it is important that we remain mindful of the ongoing impact.
“Community confidence has been clearly expressed, and today’s decision reflects that.”
The monitors will be in place for nine months from 11 May until 31 January 2027.
