While most of the work of Peter Tegart, the temporary financial adviser appointed to Kiama Council by the State Government, will be conducted at a distance he last week paid a visit to Kiama to meet the various people with whom he will be dealing [Council's advisor starts work].

The two day visit saw him meet with the Mayor, the CEO, senior staff, the Chair of the Finance Advisory Committee and the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC). He was also shown around the Blue Haven site to assist his understanding.

Mr Tegart was appointed by the Minister for Local Government, the Hon Wendy Tuckerman, as part of the Performance Improvement Order (PIO) in late November 2022. His appointment is until 30 June subject to the Minister of Local Government being satisfied that the PIO has been met.

The role of a temporary adviser is to help, advise and support the Council’s executive and elected representatives to meet the required actions set out in the Performance Improvement Order (PIO) schedule. It is a purely advisory role.

Peter Tegart has 20 years’ experience as a CEO in local government and the Commonwealth public service

Council says he confirmed his role does not involve interacting with the community nor the media, and will have limited contact with Council staff apart from the CEO and senior staff.

He will meet with the Mayor and councillors and attend Council and other relevant Advisory Meetings during the period of the PIO as an observer.

Mr Tegart does not have any decision-making powers at Council as his is purely an advisory role. His focus is on ensuring the Council meets the obligations of the PIO and providing commentary to the Minister on progress and outcomes.