Newly-appointed independent administrator for council John Tanner has begun his work at Moira Shire Council.
Mr Tanner was appointed by Victorian Local Government Minister Melissa Horne following the sacking of the Moira Shire Council in wake of the Commission of Inquiry.
He will take on the role for three months, until a panel of administrators is appointed, and brings to the role extensive experience in local government, small business and regional development.
Mr Tanner said he was looking forward to working with council staff and was committed to ensuring that Moira Shire Council worked effectively.
“My focus is on ensuring council services are delivered effectively and that the health and wellbeing of staff is prioritised,” he said.
“I’m also committed to strengthening the engagement and relationships between the community and the council.”
To ensure a smooth transition and to mark a return to normal, the Moira Shire council meeting will go ahead as planned on Wednesday, March 22.
The meeting will begin at 4.30pm and is open to public attendance as well as being live-streamed.
Mr Tanner said he would be working to ensure the groundwork was laid for the arrival of the permanent panel of administrators and council would be transparent about any new developments.
“We will keep the community informed about any changes, or developments that may occur during this transition period,” he said.
Acting Moira Shire Council chief executive officer Josh Lewis welcomed Mr Tanner’s arrival and said council staff were looking forward to working with him.
“John has extensive experience in local government and is a country person with a strong background in the rural sector and business. We’re very glad to have him on board,” he said.