MONTHLY MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
Published on 31 July 2025
As General Manager of Glen Innes Severn Council, I’m proud to lead an organisation committed to delivering for our community. This year has started strongly, and following extensive consultation, Council now has a clear path forward, both in terms of strategic priorities and financial sustainability, with the aspiration of transforming today for a thriving tomorrow.
Unfortunately, we’ve also seen behaviours that have impacted our Councillors, our staff, and the cohesion of our community. In a democracy, debate and disagreement are welcome, but there comes a point where commentary is no longer respectful, reasonable or responsible.
I have a legal and moral duty to ensure a safe and respectful workplace for all Council employees and Councillors. In recent months, I have been concerned about the effects of persistent misinformation, defamatory criticism, and hostile commentary, often anonymous or deliberately aimed at discrediting Council, Councillors and our Mayor.
While elected Councillors rightly expect scrutiny, disagreement, and robust debate, they should not be subject to personal criticism or intrusions into their personal lives.
Similarly attacks and unfounded allegations against staff or poor behaviour against staff in public cross a line. These actions cause real harm to individuals and undermine the elected Council’s and the organisation’s ability to serve the community.
There are expected community norms with regard to respectful and responsible behaviour and public discourse which underpin and are a reflection of a civil society, often we see these norms ignored.
Council staff are dedicated professionals who work hard to deliver essential services and provide impartial advice. Our Councillors rely on their expertise and do so under growing public scrutiny.
Attempts to discredit both staff and elected representatives erode morale, trust, and effectiveness.
Words matter. Repeated public attacks - especially those made without evidence - can seriously affect staff and Councillor morale and their mental health. My priority is, and will remain, the wellbeing of our team. I will not allow a culture of hostility or misinformation to compromise that. I encourage everyone in our community to engage constructively, check facts, and consider the human impact behind public commentary.
Efforts to discredit Council don’t just harm individuals, they damage our shared reputation and cohesion as a community - because we are one community, no matter our job title or where we work.
A thriving region needs a stable, professional, and respected Council. Undermining that trust serves no one. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and high standards of governance.
If you have concerns regarding the actions of Councillors or Council staff, there are proper channels through which to raise them. Every staff member and elected official takes pride in their role and in serving the community. They deserve to feel proud of where they live, who they work for, and the contribution they make without harassment or unfair vitriol. I will continue working to ensure that environment is protected, and I ask everyone to reflect on this.
We have some exciting times ahead for the organisation with robust plans and some key positions including the new Director Infrastructures Services commencing next week and a new Executive Manager of People and Culture to be advertised soon.
I am proud to be living and working in this community and encourage everyone to work together and realise our potential both as a Council and as a Community.
Bernard Smith
General Manager, Glen Innes Severn Council