Internal Reprimand Raises Tensions
The notorious bloc of six councillors led by Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh is showing signs of strain following an internal reprimand issued to councillor Stephen Batty — an incident that, while not publicly disclosed, has become the subject of growing concern inside the organisation.
According to information obtained by STPL News from within the Shire, Cr Batty was formally reprimanded for allegedly directing council staff — conduct that, under the Local Government Act 2020, is prohibited and can attract serious penalties.
The matter has not been made public, but insiders say it has triggered tensions within the bloc that has controlled council decisions for nearly 12 months. Cr Batty has reportedly threatened to resign amid frustration over the reprimand and his colleagues’ refusal to alter the Emil Madsen Reserve pavilion design.
Private Tensions Spill Into Politics
Multiple sources from within the Shire told STPL News that Mayor Anthony Marsh and the CEO Mark Stoermer have privately urged Cr Batty to remain on council, warning that his departure would destroy their narrow voting majority.
When contacted, Cr Batty neither confirmed nor denied the internal reprimand, stating that he “cannot comment” and that his focus remains on “doing a good job as a councillor.”
Emil Madsen Reserve Sparks Division
The current tension appears to centre on the Emil Madsen Reserve pavilion project in Mount Eliza. Cr Batty has pushed for design changes — reportedly seeking larger change rooms and expanded facilities — but the latest council review left the adopted concept largely unchanged. The outcome is said to have intensified internal divisions and prompted his threats to quit.
Bloc Stability in Question
For almost 12 months, the bloc of six has steered council votes and key strategic decisions. If Cr Batty resigns or withdraws his support, the balance of power would immediately shift — forcing Mayor Marsh to seek backing from councillors outside the bloc, including those he has repeatedly silenced and blocked during meetings.
The situation, though still unfolding behind closed doors, marks the first significant crack in the bloc’s dominance since it consolidated power late last year.
Good News……