Geraldton council CEO given contract extension for ‘runs on the board’

City of Greater Geraldton chief executive Ross McKim has been offered another five years in the top job after the council unanimously voted to renew his contract.

There was plenty of goodwill thrown Mr McKim’s way at Tuesday’s ordinary council meeting, with a number of councillors voicing their support.

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Cr Peter Fiorenza said Mr McKim had “put the runs on the board”, while Cr David Caudwell said he had done “an outstanding job” since taking on the role on a permanent basis in 2017.

“I’d like to reflect on a time when this CEO came into his role, it was a really tough time,” Cr Caudwell said.

“The previous CEO had been through a process of restructuring the organisation ... there were some staff reductions which had impacts.

“COVID sent him a set of new challenges and he’s worked his way through those as well and kept the ship on course and staff morale high.”

COVID sent him a set of new challenges and he’s worked his way through those as well and kept the ship on course and staff morale high.

Mr McKim’s contract, which was due to end this year, will now run until October 29, 2026.

The former civil engineer and youth worker now has close to 30 years of local government experience, having held leadership positions at Cairns, Redlands and Tablelands regional councils in Queensland.

Mayor Shane Van Styn said it was endearing to have someone of Mr McKim’s character.

Former Ravensthorpe Shire CEO Gavin Pollock was sacked earlier this month for allegedly spending $50,000 in council cash on sex workers.

“You only need to look at what’s happening all around us that some CEOs aren’t often lasting the duration of their initial contract, let alone getting a renewal,” Mr Van Styn said.

“I’m pleased we are offering him a further five years.”

Tuesday night’s agenda marked the last time the council will sit in its current form before the October 16 local government elections, with Mr Van Styn thanking outgoing councillors David Caudwell, Sally Elphick and Steve Douglas for their service.