After bringing Logan City Council out of a near budget deficit this year, Councillor Lisa Bradley is stepping down from her role as Chairperson of the City Governance Committee and said she feels ‘items are politically charged and democracy has been lost’.
Despite a rocky start when sworn in earlier this year, Logan City Council is now over $6 million above budget.
“When we took over office earlier this year and we went into the budget process the figures showed our council was heading into an operating deficit. Meaning we were chewing into the city’s savings to keep our lights on,” Cr Bradley said.
Despite such success under Cr Bradley’s leadership, she has chosen to step down and said it was because of decisions regarding the most recent budget being too ‘politically charged’.
“My decision has not come lightly, and is definitely not a reflection of the great work our Mayor is doing for the city,” Cr Bradley said.
“I have based my decision on a number of events, and I have felt my morals and integrity boundaries have been pushed to the limit.
“I feel I have been put in vulnerable positions, despite repeated requests for assistance.
“Whilst I cannot determine the driving force that is creating these feelings in me, I have had a number of members of the public say they have noticed how I have been treated.
“In the role of Chairperson of City Governance Committee, part of the portfolio is the budget, and I cannot consciously put my name to matters where I feel items are politically charged and democracy has been lost.”
Cr Bradley said she wanted to express her gratitude to the people of Division 1.
“I will continue to represent them to the best of my ability without fear or favour,” she said.
“Here’s hoping fellow Councillors can take time out during the festive season, and come back next year refreshed ready for some robust democratic conversations.
“For me, Christmas is a time for giving and sharing, loving and forgiving
“I wish the City of Logan community, Mr Mayor, Councillors, Acting CEO, ELT members and staff a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year.”
Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Natalie Willcocks, will chair the Committee for the foreseeable future.
A new Chairperson will be elected in 2021 (a report will be prepared for a future City Governance Committee meeting and councillors are able to nominate for the position before a vote is held).
