CAMPASPE Shire Council has appointed Paul McKenzie and Fleur Cousins as acting chief executives, to take over from Jason Russell once he leaves on April 12.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Council appointed council’s regulatory and community services general manager Mr McKenzie to the top job from 5pm, April 12 until 5pm, May 3. Ms Cousins (corporate services general manager) will run the show from then until 5pm Friday, May 24.
Cr Neil Pankhurst said he was ‘‘surprised and disappointed’’ to move the motion at the special council meeting on Tuesday.
Several councillors praised Mr Russell during the meeting, highlighting the tremendous job he had done so far. In February council decided to advertise Mr Russell’s position after his four-year contract expires.
And Cr Neil Pankhurst said while he supported comments about Mr Russell he found it difficult to listen to.
‘‘I certainly support those comments but I must say it was difficult sitting here listening to, given the position we find ourselves in,’’ he said.
Cr Daniel Mackrell said he hoped councillors would not rescind the motion on the back of one about the committee overseeing the new chief executive’s employment which was withdrawn at the same meeting.
Cr Annie Vickers said she had every confidence those acting in the top job would do an ‘‘excellent job’’.