The United Services Union (USU) believes Kiama Council should be sacked and an administrator appointed over its failure to manage its finances.
USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM said Premier Chris Minns needs to step in and end the dysfunction at Kiama Council, back the local community and provide certainty for the residents and staff of the Blue Haven aged care facility.
“There are 200 staff who deserve a guarantee that their jobs won’t be at risk as this Council pushes to sell off Blue Haven, a move that the USU believes would be a poor outcome for residents and staff alike,” Mr Kelly said.
“Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig knows the Council is not acting in the best interests of the community and needs to go. A Performance Improvement Order issued to Kiama Council by the previous government has not resulted in any change.”
Mr Kelly said the appointment late last year of a former Sutherland Council General manager to inquire into the finances of Kiama Council should be completed before the Council moved to sell Blue Haven.
“The USU is aware that this report is due by the end of January. Kiama Council has called an extraordinary meeting for the 1st of February at which it is believed a decision on Blue Haven’s future will be voted on.”
“The community, the Council and the Minister need time to properly consider the report and the community’s views, rather than ramming this proposed sale through. A Council vote on the future of Blue Haven must be delayed until that can take place.”
Media contact: John Hill 0412 197 079
