Release of the ‘Operation Yabber’ report by Queensland’s corruption watchdog (CCC) about the conduct of Mayor Tom Tate confirms resident concerns about his leadership style and propriety.
There is a lot of noise in news and social media about misuse of funds on personal items like luxury luggage, and selfie sticks. But far more serious truths have emerged from this investigation.
- Privately, Mr Tate tried to hide correspondence that revealed he obstructed disciplinary action by the Chief Executive Officer against activities by the Mayor’s Chief of Staff, Mr Wayne Moran.
- Publicly, Mr Tate is trying to pass off the CCC investigation as a joke. He is an embarrassment to all Gold Coasters who expect accountability from people in public office.
- Consistently, since taking up office in 2012, Mr Tate has been the subject of complaints, including sixty referrals to the Office of Independent Assessor since it was established in 2018.
It’s inconceivable to me that a majority of voters in the upcoming council election on March 28 would put their trust in Mr Tate for another 4-year term.
I’m standing for election as Mayor and I want to restore public confidence in our council. I will ensure that council business is transparent and honourable – no more secrets, no more hidden agendas.
The first motion I will make as Mayor will be to have the glass partition in the council chamber removed so that community members in the gallery can see and hear council and committee discussions better.
Our reputation and our economy depend on good governance. I want the front pages of newspapers and television screens to be filled again with good news stories about our wonderful Gold Coast.