AN AWKWARD seven months lie ahead for Armidale Regional Council after mayor Simon Murray confirmed he would not resign.
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One thing Cr Murray and the seven detractors can agree on is all welcome an inquiry from the Minister for Local Government.
"I'd welcome the Minister being involved, because that way they will actually look at the performance," Cr Murray said.
"If I have done something wrong, I will stand up to that - so bring it on.
"It's going to be rough, no ifs and buts about it, the fact they have done this ploy, this game."
Councillor Margaret O'Connor is one of seven who signed a motion of no confidence in the mayor on Tuesday.
Not even she believes the mayor will resign from his post, which has left some wondering why the councillors have demanded it in the first place.
"I'm not expecting him to resign, and if he does, I'll be surprised," she said.
"We've been under a lot of pressure from our community to do something and that's why we're acting. This is not about our personal wishes."
Cr Murray was voted back into the top job just four months ago. The next election is not until September.
We would welcome the Minister's interest in our difficulties here; I would welcome an inquiry from the Minister.
- Margaret O'Connor
The seven councillors have a majority and could effectively block every motion the mayor puts forward.
The Minister for Local Government has the power to intervene in councils that are dysfunctional or fail to meet legal obligations.
A performance improvement order can be issued to the councils to make change.
In more serious cases, councils can be suspended for up to six months, and a public inquiry can lead to the dismissal of all councillors.
Cr O'Connor said the council would not have difficulties making decisions and she wasn't concerned about that.
"We would welcome the Minister's interest in our difficulties here; I would welcome an inquiry from the Minister," she said.
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The six other signatories are Jon Galletly, Peter Bailey, Debra O'Brien, Andrew Murat, Dorothy Robinson and former administrator Ian Tiley.
Business leaders have come out in support of the mayor, including Regional Australia Bank chief executive Kevin Dupe and UNE ex-chancellor John Cassidy.
The councillors are expected to provide the public with more information about their decision, on Friday.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
