CEO role thrown open

And while Cr Neil Pankhurst acknowledged it was a council decision he would stand by, as an ‘‘individual councillor’’ he was surprised at the outcome given Mr Russell’s achievements.

‘‘There’s a significant amount of work that has been undertaken in building relationships with other organisations — the work that has been undertaken with Ky Fauna Park ... and the role that he has played in Rural Council Victoria. They are significant achievements and he’s certainly been a great benefit to our region,’’ Cr Pankhurst said.

Deputy mayor Vicki Neele said, however, it was common practice to advertise a senior position.

‘‘The CEO, as far as I see, is a key role within the council and it is my job to ensure that we have the best possible person in the role,’’ she said.

‘‘It’s common practice to advertise any senior position, inviting qualified people to apply and that’s what we’re doing.’’

Cr Leigh Wilson said he disagreed with the ‘‘process’’.

‘‘I personally believe there was a lack of natural justice and procedural fairness in this process,’’ he said.

‘‘I will work hard to make sure the process moving forward is fair, open and transparent.’’

Cr Leanne Pentreath said Mr Russell had met his key performance indicators.

‘‘I believe the CEO has actually put the shire in a better position than it was prior with his staffing organisation,’’ she said.

Mayor Adrian Weston acknowledged Mr Russell’s achievements.

‘‘I wish to acknowledge the ongoing achievements by Jason, delivering council’s strategic objective as well as all the services that are valued by our community,’’ he said.

In a press release issued last week, Cr Weston also said under the Local Government Act (the Act) the council was responsible for the appointment of the chief executive.

‘‘The council has decided to advertise the position and will follow the statutory advertising and appointment process outlined in the Act,’’ he said.

Mr Russell will be able to re-apply for his position.