By Natalee Kerr
Surf Coast Shire’s “complex dynamics” have influenced Carol McGregor’s decision to quit after four years as a councillor.
“There have been a lot of rocky paths and my fellow councillors have not always got along,” the Winchelsea councillor said.
The former deputy mayor highlighted “issues” with councillor behaviour.
“In a normal workplace some of these behaviours displayed would not be tolerated,” she added.
“It’s been frustrating and distressing at times and has certainly taken its toll on me.”
But Mayor Rose Hodge said the workplace culture at the shire was strong.
“There are always issues in every local council, I won’t shy away from that,” she said.
“But we’re governing to the best of our abilities and we’re working really well together as a team at the moment.”
Cr McGregor said personal issues and her appointment to a new job working in health also influenced her decision.
Her vacancy will be filled via a countback of votes from the 2016 council election, according to Victorian Electoral Commission.
Adrian Dwight Schonfelder is likely to take her place, having polled 21.31 per cent of first-preference votes behind Cr McGregor’s 21.91 per cent.
VEC is also working to fill former Anglesea councillor Libby Coker’s vacancy after she resigned to become a federal politician last month.
The only other candidate for the Anglesea ward in the 2016 election was Jenna Robinson.
Ms Robinson has until next Tuesday to confirm her eligibility for the position or a by-election will take place, according to VEC.
