The Maroondah Leader has reported on Maroondah’s submission to the representation review being undertaken by the Victorian Electoral Commission where the majority of councillors chose to ignore the wishes of the community:

The submission was discussed at the last council meeting when councilors Alex Makin and Maureen Naylor chose to vote against the proposals.

Maroondah City Council held a series of workshops last November in order to gauge public opinion. It is unfortunate that some councillors chose to disregard the community’s input when it did not suit their own aims.

Cr Makin said the recommendations were “contrary to the findings” of public consultation which favoured a multi-member three structure with nine councillors.

The community consultation which included workshops and feedback submissions showed a clear preference towards reforming Maroondah City Council’s ward structures and representation.

“Council has failed to use the opportunity to improve representation within Maroondah,” Cr Makin said.

Preliminary submission to the Victorian Electoral Commission’s representation review into the City of Maroondah closes today. The findings are scheduled to be released on the 1st of April.