Council Watch Fleurieu Inc. has formally written to the Minister for Local Government, Hon. Joe Szakacs MP, demanding an investigation into the refusal of a local resident’s deputation on a critical public health issue by the Mayor of Victor Harbor, Dr. Moira Jenkins.
Resident Mr Keith Climpson was denied the opportunity to address Council on the possible link between beach wrack (decaying seaweed) and the ongoing Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) event affecting the region.
“The Mayor’s decision to block this deputation is not just disappointing — it reflects a systemic suppression of public voices,” said Council Watch Chair Terry Andrews. “Mr Climpson has now been refused both a deputation and the right to ask questions from the gallery. This is not how democracy works.”
Council Watch alleges:
- The Mayor may have had a material conflict of interest and should have recused herself;
- Council administration undermined an elected member’s motion (Cr Quaremba) by inserting an “alternative recommendation” to shut down debate;
- All legal and reputational risks were rated ‘low’, yet public input was denied;
- The community’s right to speak on health and environmental matters is being stifled.
Council Watch is calling on the Minister to:
- Intervene;
- Issue new guidance on public participation;
- Refer the matter to the Ombudsman for investigation.
“Local government is not the private property of the Mayor or the CEO,” Mr Andrews said. “It belongs to the people — and we won’t stop until the people are heard.”
Sincerely,
Terry Andrews
Chairperson
Council Watch Fleurieu Inc.
PO Box 1753, Victor Harbor SA
Email: councilwatch44@gmail.com
Web: www.councilwatchvictorharbor.com
Council Watch Victor Harbor 