Launceston City Council is facing calls for an independent investigation into the use of ratepayer funds for embattled councillor Danny Gibson.
The former mayor has been absent from recent council meetings on approved leave amid an ongoing misconduct saga.
The allegations, which surfaced in early September, involve claims of unwanted advances made by Gibson.
While the claims have not resulted in criminal charges, they have sparked significant legal and public relations costs for the council, who have been paying expenses on Gibson’s behalf.
At the most recent council meeting on Thursday, Councillor Tim Walker raised concerns about the expenditure.
“I’d like to ask what steps are being taken to understand the details that do surround the councillor costs associated with the payments made to or on behalf of Councillor Gibson,” he said.
“What provisions are there that would allow this reimbursement or payment to be made on behalf of this councillor?”
“And would the Mayor and the CEO commit to a robust, open, full and frank independent investigation or audit into the payments made and seek recommendations to ensure that the situation is completely understood.”
Council chief executive Sam Johnson acknowledged the council’s commitment to transparency but stated that he could not comment on the specific details of Gibson’s case due to confidentiality concerns.
He did, however, confirm that the council has spent $9,034.91 on legal fees for Gibson and a further $4,867.50 was paid to a public relations firm last year with the approval of both the former acting and former chief executives.
“I’m mindful of some confidentiality provisions that sit around what is currently being worked on, so I won’t be discussing that in a public arena,” Johnson said.
“But I can assure you that there are appropriate processes, respecting privacy in all situations and further information will be coming forthcoming to council.”
“Without breaching any legal privilege and confidentiality, the report process is underway.”
Gibson is currently on medical leave and has not yet publicly commented.
He recently stepped down from his role on the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) General Management Committee.
Gibson has been replaced by Meander Valley Mayor Wayne Johnston, who will hold the position until the next election in July 2025.
