Municipal monitors have been appointed at Brimbank City Council in Melbourne, which previously spent seven years in administration after a damning ombudsman’s report.

Local government minister Melissa Horne said in a statement on Wednesday that the monitors will help resolve ongoing issues at Brimbank.

“Governance issues must be addressed, and the monitors will help identify what is needed to ensure Brimbank City Council can best represent its ratepayers,” the minister said.

Monitors Janet Dore and Penelope Holloway have been appointed until the end of the year and will provide a report to the minister at the end of their term.

They are are tasked with monitoring governance at the council with regard to a number of issues including:

• Councillor confidentiality requirements

• Relationships between councillors and staff

• Meeting procedures and decision making processes

• Practices in relation to health and safety

• Engagement policies

Appointments welcomed

Brimbank Mayor Councillor Ranka Rasic said the Council was committed to working together for the best interests of the local community.

“I fully support and welcome the appointment of municipal monitors to improve behaviour and governance for our community’s benefit,” she said in a statement.

“It’s crucial for all Councillors to know their duties under the Local Government Act, and work together for Brimbank’s good governance and the best outcomes for the community.

“It is absolutely essential the local community has confidence in the governance of Council by all of the elected representatives.”

Damning report

An Ombudsman’s report in to alleged improper conduct at Brimbank handed to the then government in May 2009 slammed the council as as “dysfunctional”, saying it was riddled with bullying and infighting and influenced by non-elected members with criminal pasts.

Council was sacked on November 12, 2009 and administrators were appointed until a new Council was elected in October 2016.

The appointment of monitors at Brimbank came after the government announced last month that municipal monitors had been appointed to help improve governance at Moonee Valley Council.

The Victorian government has appointed monitors at 11 councils this current term.

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