GRANT District Council chief executive officer David Singe has “parted ways” with the local government body.
In an extraordinary development, council held a confidential meeting earlier this week on the future of Mr Singe at the organisation.
The details of the meeting remains wrapped in secrecy due to it being held in confidence.
The departure of Mr Singe follows a turbulent period for the rural council that has been gripped by a number of controversies, including elected member code of conduct issues.
According to a statement released yesterday, Mr Singe departure was “effective” immediately.
“Grant District Council has decided to part company with chief executive officer David Singe, in line with his contract,” the statement said.
“The council wishes Mr Singe all the best with his future endeavours.”
Deputy chief executive officer Jane Fetherstonhaugh will act in the position until Mr Singe can be replaced.
Ms Fetherstonhaugh told The Border Watch yesterday the council wished to “move forward”, but declined to comment on the circumstances of Mr Singe’s departure.
Council will now advertise the position of chief executive officer.
The development comes as somewhat of a surprise given the council recently rubber-stamped Mr Singe’s contract following a probationary period.
It is not known if the matter is linked with Mr Singe’s troubled relationship with Mayor Richard Sage.
But Mr Singe’s departure also follows a sweeping cultural review into the organisation.
Mr Singe and Mr Sage have been working with a mediator over recent weeks to mend their fractured relationship following a council intervention.
When contacted by The Border Watch yesterday, Mr Singe declined to comment but indicated he may make a statement in the future.
Elected members voted in February to engage an independent consultant to review the organisation and prepare a report for council.
The review included the need to speak with the senior management team, the majority of staff and across all departments and levels in relation to: what is not working; issues and concerns; what is done well and what needs to change.
“The purpose of the report is to provide elected members with specific details and recommendations to action,” according to council documents.
“It is an expectation of elected members the CEO and mayor develop a positive working relationship with open and regular lines of communication.”
