PAUL PISASALE'S SUDDEN RESIGNATION
AN EMOTIONAL Paul Pisasale announced his resignation as Ipswich mayor yesterday.
Mr Pisasale made the announcement at a press conference in the board room at St Andrew’s Private Hospital, Ipswich, while wearing his red pyjama pants and socks.
Mr Pisasale said he had suffered a recent MS attack and indicated that his reason for stepping down was health-related.
The Queensland Times understands there is an active investigation into Mr Pisasale involving the Australian Federal Police.
When questioned about an impending announcement from the CCC Mr Pisasale said he was not aware of any upcoming statement.
Mr Pisasale is no longer an elected official and a by-election will be held to fill his place.
A by-election will be held within three months and an Electoral Commission Queensland spokesman confirmed all Ipswich residents will have to vote.
In the meantime Deputy Mayor Paul Tully has been appointed as the Ipswich mayor.
Although Mr Pisasale denied any investigation Cr Tully confirmed police were at the council offices on Monday on behalf of the CCC.
He said that, as he understood it, they had raided former Mr Pisasale’s house as well.
Cr Tully said whatever the issues were, he did not believe they affected the council.
“I understand this is a separate matter to CCC’s Operation Belcarra (which) was about election funding,” he said.
“It has come as a major shock to councillors that the mayor is gone. We hope he can get on with life and enjoy retirement.”
Mr Pisasale said he was sad to have to step down.
“My journey has been going for 26 years and I’m so proud to be a mayor who’s been able to represent such a wonderful city,” he said.