Councillors quiet on adviser role

COUNCILLORS and city leaders have declined to speak out over Mayor Tom Tate’s controversial spiritual adviser.

The Bulletin last week reported the mayor had employed pastor Sue Baynes as his pastoral adviser and released details about a “prayer room” at council.

All 14 city councillors were asked what they thought about the mayor appointing a spiritual adviser to his staff, not disclosing how much she was being paid and her video claims he was following the Seven Mountains Mandate religious philosophy. None of them would comment. Other sources told reporters the situation was “dangerous” and “difficult” for them to comment on.

Community Alliance president John

Hicks said: “It’s always a good thing to have impartiality in public administration.

“If there’s an overwhelming ideology coming to the fore it raises concerns about equity in treatment of citizens.”

Northern Chamber of Commerce Secretary Gary Mays also weighed in.

“As long as it’s a legitimately appointed position that meets council requirements the mayor’s entitled to it,” he said.

Ms Baynes was also asked for an indepth interview with Bulletin reporters.

She said: “I have spoken with the media Adviser who has explained the council external communications policy does not allow officers to be interviewed. I do appreciate your offer. Best regards, Sue.”