Ellis disqualified: Tribunal rules for council

The State Administrative Tribunal has upheld a City of Greater Geraldton decision to disqualify Councillor Renee Ellis for unapproved absences from council meetings.

The matter went to the tribunal in October when the Willcock ward councillor contested City chief executive Ken Diehm’s notice of disqualification.

The council is yet to decide whether to hold a by-election or keep the position vacant until the scheduled election in October this year.

Mayor Shane Van Styn said he was relieved a decision had finally been made.

He said the ruling vindicated Mr Diehm, who had acted properly and in accordance with the Local Government Act.

Mr Van Styn said the disqualification notice was issued following repeated unapproved absences, a warning and a council motion it was losing confidence in Ms Ellis.

Ms Ellis could not be contacted for comment.

The tribunal handed down its decision yesterday.