TOM TATE’S RESPONSE

The Bulletin asked the Mayor Tom Tate a series of questions regarding spiritual adviser Sue Baynes. The following are his responses:

How much is spiritual adviser Sue Baynes being paid in her council role?

A: I haven’t employed a spiritual adviser. I have employed a Councillor Adviser under approved state legislation. There is no spiritual adviser on my staff.

What exactly are her duties, hours of work?

A: It is a casual position around 20 hours per week. The role’s function is to assist with community issues including homelessness, assisting organisations involved in recovery from natural events like the recent floods and to help hardworking volunteer groups working in areas such as drug addiction and social housing. Just this week, the Prayer Room was utilised for a meeting regarding drug addiction and how we can better link various services and support. The community would welcome these initiatives as addiction remains a huge challenge across Australia.

To what extent, if any, does Cr Tate follow the Seven Mountain Mandate religious philosophy?

A: My religious views, or views on any matter, are personal. That said, I make decisions based on what is in the best interest of the majority of residents. I have done that for the past decade and, in forming those views, I take advice from many sources and individuals. Ultimately, when I vote I do that with a view to what I believe is in the best interest of the majority. That will never change.

How much is the councillor adviser Sue Baynes being paid in her role?

A: Within my office budget and off a vacant position. This is not a new position.

The Bulletin has subsequently asked what it is costing per week, ballpark, to have Ms Baynes as a councillor adviser and how much it has cost in total so far.