The first related to the problems at the Gingin Regional Hardcourt; the second report related to the council considering executing the termination clause in the CEO’s contract of employment.

The Sun City News was told that the deputy shire president, David Roe, had a meeting with Mr Fraser on Monday morning.

After the meeting, Cr Roe contacted the shire president requesting a special meeting.

Additionally, the Sun City News understands Mr Fraser packed up his personal possesions and took immediate leave until after the council’s special meeting.

Shire president, George Gifford, called the meeting for 5.30pm on Tuesday, 5th February, after the scheduled council meeting.

Recently, North Ward Councillor David Roe, contacted the CEO and expressed concern in relation to the number of staff leaving the employ of the Shire of Gingin.

Councillor Roe, is of the view that it would be appropriate for departing staff be afforded the opportunity to have an ‘Exit Interview’ in order to ascertain their reasons for leaving.

The Sun City News understands a discussion ensued in relation to who would be best suited to undertake such interviews.

The CEO, expressed the view that it would be inappropriate for either him, the deputy chief executive officer or principal officers to undertake the proposed interviews as there could be impartiality allegations raised in relation to the conduct of the interview and the recording of outcomes.

At a number of councils including Wanneroo and Chittering, a form is sent out inviting the staff member to provide comment. Departed staff can fill out the form and return it to the office or contact staff to go through the form.

Over the past few months the senior health environment manager, Wayne Harris and planning manager Lisa Edwards have resigned. Additionally senior ranger, Michael Pimm, has submited his resignation.

The special meeting was held behind closed doors and lasted nearly two hours.

The council announced two decisions: firstly to complete whatever work was required to handover the regional hardcourt site to the contractor.

The second decision was to terminated the CEO, Simon Fraser, according to the contract of employment.

He is entitled to all leaves due, long service due, RDOs and a full years wages. Total payout is expected to exceed $200,000.