Inquiry at City of Gosnells clears council for the second time

5/6/02
A report by the Department of Local Government and Regional Development has cleared allegations made by Councillor Olwen Searle into the actions of Gosnells City Council.
Local Government and Regional Development Minister Tom Stephens said a comprehensive review had been conducted on the city by the department after receiving correspondence from Cr Searle on February 7.
Mr Stephens said the review examined the validity of a number of concerns raised by Cr Searle including:

• the Solid Waste to Energy Recycling Facility (SWERF);
  
• the provision of financial assistance to two councillors by the CEO to defend legal action initiated by Ms Searle; and
  
• the City of Gosnells Ethics Committee.

"The report concluded that the allegations raised by Cr Searle were unfounded and there was no evidence to support the call for an inquiry into the city's operations," the Minister said.
"I am satisfied with the outcome of the review and the timely and professional manner in which it has been conducted."
Mr Stephens has written to the Gosnells City Council and Cr Searle advising both parties that the complaint about the conduct of the city has been dismissed.
Minister's office: 9213 6500