Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh has responded to public speculation regarding a possible investigation by the Local Government Inspectorate, stating there is no indication of anything beyond routine post-election procedures.
Speaking on RPP FM’s Peninsula Talks program, Mayor Marsh addressed the matter directly following STPL News’ earlier report highlighting several independent claims that the Shire may be under investigation.
“They [the Inspectorate] go and talk to councillors all the time,”
Mayor Marsh said.
“We actually have a one-on-one session tonight. That will be on the briefing schedule – that’s going to be in public documents shortly.”
He noted that such interactions are standard practice, especially in the context of post-election oversight or leadership transitions.
“These are things that the Inspector has a pretty clear role in, particularly after an election, and I guess you’d say with a changeover CEO it’s even more critical they go and do post checks – so that’s all that is.”
The Mayor said he had seen online commentary regarding the issue, but dismissed some of the reaction as “hysteria.”
“No, I’m not aware of anything beyond that,”
He added.
However, according to sources who spoke with STPL News on the condition of anonymity, the Inspectorate has interviewed several Shire staff members in recent weeks. While the full context of those interviews remains unknown, the level of direct staff engagement has raised questions among some observers as to whether the current activities extend beyond standard post-election protocols.
It is important to note that the Local Government Inspectorate does not disclose information regarding investigations unless they result in findings or formal action. This means any ongoing oversight or inquiry—if occurring—may not be publicly confirmed unless it progresses to a formal stage.
The Inspectorate has so far declined to confirm or deny the existence of any investigation. STPL News previously contacted several councillors and staff, receiving mixed responses. Some welcomed the possibility of oversight, citing internal concerns, while others stated they were unaware of any formal process underway.
The Mayor’s remarks suggest that any engagement with the Inspectorate may be limited to routine governance checks following the recent local government election and the appointment of a new CEO.
STPL News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available.
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