Glenorchy quit refusal
SIX Glenorchy aldermen have handed in their resignations from the council — but the Director of Local Government Alex Tay says they can’t.
His reason: They have no positions from which to step down.
Suspended deputy mayor Harry Quick, ex-mayor Stuart Slade and suspended aldermen Jenny Branch-Allen, Haydyn Nielsen, Steve King and David Pearce have all attempted to resign from the embattled council following Local Government Minister Peter Gutwein’s move to introduce legislation to sack them and hold elections on January 16.
The Mercury first reported on the possibility of a mass resignation of aldermen on Wednesday. But in a move that threatens to spark yet more legal action in the long-running saga, Mr Tay told them that, while they are suspended, under the Local Government Act they do not hold a relevant office from which to resign.
“Hence any submission of a resignation cannot take effect,” he told the Mercury.
“It could only do so from the time the suspension is lifted. If the councillor is dis- missed before a suspension is lifted, then of course the dismissal takes effect and there is no office to resign from.”
The 10 Glenorchy aldermen were resuspended for another six months by Mr Gutwein in August, when the Board of Inquiry investigation into the council was yet again delayed.
The Mercury has been told that multiple suspended aldermen have already gathered legal advice regarding Mr Tay’s claim.
Ms Branch-Allen — who remains undecided on contesting the election should the legislation get through State Parliament — said she was sure of her ability to resign.
“If I want to resign, I will,” she said.
Mr Quick said he went to tender his resignation to council acting general manager Tony McMullen but was told that he was unable to.
“It’s laughable, I’ve had a gutful,” he said.
Suspended mayor Kristie Johnston, Matt Stevenson and Jan Dunsby have said they would stand in the election.
Christine Lucas has declined to comment and it is not known whether she will join the six other aldermen in resigning.