Governance monitor for Strathbogie council

A municipal monitor has been appointed to help address governance issues at Strathbogie Shire Council.

The role of a monitor is to observe governance processes and report back on issues, provide advice to the council and make recommendations to the minister for further action, including appointment of a commissioner to replace the elected councillors.

Acting Local Government Minister Mary-Anne Thomas has appointed Janet Dore as monitor for Strathbogie Shire Council for a term of six months.

The appointment was made at the request of Mayor Chris Raeburn and chief executive Julie Salomon to help guide the council as it serves the community.

Ms Dore will work closely with the council to improve governance practices and help councillors understand their roles and responsibilities under the Local Government Act.

‘‘I expect the council to act as role models and maintain a standard of good governance that the people of Strathbogie rightfully expect from their elected representatives,’’ Ms Thomas said.

‘‘I look forward to Ms Dore assisting the council to promote best practices and behaviours, for the benefit of all.’’

Ms Dore has senior executive experience dealing with changing environments at local and state government organisations, as well as on boards in government and the not-for-profit sector.

Most recently she served as interim chief executive of Ballarat City Council.