A request by Huon Valley Mayor Peter Coad that his fellow councillors all be dismissed has backfired with Local Government Minister Peter Gutwein instructing him to resign from his leadership.
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Mr Gutwein was told by the Board of Inquiry this year to sack the entire council after it was rendered dysfunctional due to constant infighting and a relationship breakdown between the mayor and general manager.
Mr Gutwein instead three months ago chose to impose six-month mediation period on the council to allow it to sort out internal grievances and implement ministerial directions.
Cr Coad on Tuesday met with Mr Gutwein, requesting the council be dismissed.
Mr Gutwein on Wednesday said that Cr Coad should leave his position if he did not wish to re-engage in mediation.
“The Huon Valley Council needs a leader that is willing to engage in the process,” he said.
“My message is very clear to Mayor Coad: either get onboard or take the opportunity to leave.
“What that community needs is a leader that is prepared to lead not only the community but the council through this difficult period.”
Under the Local Government Act, the minister can sack an entire council but not a mayor.
It is understood that Cr Coad has no intention of stepping down.
Cr Coad did not respond to calls for comment.
Former Huon Valley councillor and Greens MHA, Rosalie Woodruff, called on Mr Gutwein to sack the entire council and call fresh elections.
