City of Parramatta Council Chief Executive, Gail Connolly, has issued a statement in the wake of her shock termination following a tense meeting of the Council overnight.
Councillors last night voted 9-6 to dismiss the Council leader, effective immediately.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Lord Mayor, Martin Zaiter simply said Ms Connolly (pictured) had led the delivery of a number of significant projects since joining the Council in March 2023.
“I would like to assure our community and ratepayers that our Councillors, executive team and staff remain committed to delivering on our services and commitments and making the City of Parramatta the best place to live work and play,” the Lord Mayor said.
In a statement issued this afternoon, Ms Connolly responded to her sacking, saying she was immensely proud of what had been achieved in the past two and a half years.
“During this time, the organisation faced significant leadership challenges, including the election of four different Lord Mayors and several councillor resignations. Yet despite the turbulence, we worked together to build a strong and resilient organisation that has been recognised as an employer of choice and a leader in workplace reform. Staff satisfaction levels have almost doubled to record levels, the average length of tenure of employees increased substantially, and a culture of performance and wellbeing has been embedded,” she said.
“I am grateful to the outstanding staff who represent the new heart of the organisation. Their professionalism and commitment have been the driving force behind its renewal and success. I also extend my sincere thanks to my colleagues on the Executive Team for their support and their frank and fearless service to the community. Their dedication and long hours of hard work have been instrumental in achieving the strong track record of delivery and transformation that I am proud to leave behind.
“Among many highlights, the Parramatta 2050 strategy that I initiated and delivered in 2024 has laid the groundwork for major city-shaping improvements in planning, infrastructure and liveability. It was an honour to work with business and community leaders to bring that vision to life, and I look forward to seeing it continue to evolve.”
Ms Connolly said that leading a major policy, planning and service delivery organisation was “not for the faint-hearted”.
“In public life, leaders have a duty not to remain silent on issues such as inappropriate behaviour and corruption. I encourage my local government colleagues to continue to speak out for the sake of the sector and our local communities,” she said.
Ms Connolly, who was awarded a Public Service Medal as part of the Australia Day Honour Awards in 2023, was formerly General Manager of Georges River Council, where she led the Council during its amalgamation. She has also previously held the roles of General Manager at the City of Ryde and has senior executive positions at several other large local government organisations including City of Gold Coast, City of Sydney, and Campbelltown Council.
Executive Director City Services and Projects, George Bounassif will take on the role of Acting CEO while the recruitment process commences for a new chief executive.
