Recent actions by Council staff raise serious concerns about the role of local government employees in managing community discussions, especially on issues that impact public assets and potential developments. Reports have emerged of Council staff discouraging community members from speaking to the media about ongoing issues and a proposed development, which has garnered significant public support.

This behaviour is deeply troubling. Council staff are expected to act with transparency, integrity, and respect for the community they serve. Attempting to silence individuals or downplay legitimate concerns not only undermines public trust but also jeopardises the Council’s responsibility to address these matters openly.

The community has a right to be fully informed and engaged in discussions about developments that affect them. Council staff should be facilitating these conversations, not obstructing them. Any attempt to suppress dialogue or mislead the public is not only inappropriate but an abuse of their position.

Council staff must uphold the principles of good governance—supporting, not hindering, open communication and community engagement. The community deserves better than secrecy and deflection; they deserve transparency and accountability from those entrusted to serve their interests.