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Probity report progress slows |
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Written by Administrator
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Friday, 04 November 2005 |
The findings of a probity report commissioned by Caloundra City Council, which delved into the dealings of the council pertaining to land purchases for the Maleny Community Precinct Project, continue to be delayed. It is a blow to concerned residents and members of the precinct project who have already seen progress stalled for over a year.
The findings of a probity report commissioned by Caloundra City Council, which delved into the dealings of the council pertaining to land purchases for the Maleny Community Precinct Project, continue to be delayed. It is a blow to concerned residents and members of the precinct project who have already seen progress stalled for over a year.
For over four weeks they have been waiting for the release of the report's findings, compiled by accountants KPMG. "Council is extremely formal and the whole process takes time," Division One Councillor Dick Newman said. "I know it is frustrating, but that's how it is."
But Cr Newman did say he expected progress before the year end. "It would be a pretty rotten Christmas if something hasn't been released by then," he said. "I am certain there will be some news this year."
Council is currently digesting the near 200- page report which looks into the boundary realignments and property dealings during the $2.7 million council buyout of the Porter and Armstrong farms. Of further concern is that as time slips away, the report, which cost tax payers around $200,000, may never be released.
This sentiment stems from comments made by CCC Deputy Mayor Gordon Wallace when the report was first returned from the auditors. Back then he hinted that council might reject the report in its entirety and thus the findings never make the public domain. Cr Newman and Division Two Councillor Anna Grosskreutz, who both championed the report, have previously stated that they want its findings to be released. Both councilors have said it was unethical to spend that much public money and then keep the findings within CCC.
It seems highly unlikely that council would not publish the report's findings amid a forecast public outcry and public relations backlash.
But for now, plans for Maleny's proposed 18-hole golf course, complete with club house, village green, 190 home subdivisions, community swimming pool, gymnasium, theatre, meeting hall and shopping precinct on land northeast of Bunya Street remain stalled.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 04 September 2006 )
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Range News 2005 - ON 
