By MATT NICHOLLS
ARMIDALE Dumaresq Council could have a new interim general manager as early as today after Shane Burns had his contract officially terminated on Monday.
The Armidale Independent understands former Tamworth Regional Council general manager Glenn Inglis is a front-runner for the position.
Chief financial officer Keith Lockyer is the acting general manager in the short-term, however a small committee of councillors will meet today to discuss the appointment of an interim general manager.
The committee comprises mayor Laurie Bishop, deputy mayor Jenny Bailey and councillor Colin Gadd.
“Keith Lockyer has some annual leave booked from 3 March and on Monday night a committee was formed to appoint an interim acting general manager,” Cr Bishop said.
“The committee will meet (today) and consider some of the names suggested.”
Cr Bishop did not mention names, but Mr Inglis is believed to be the preferred candidate.
He has more than 17 years of experience as a regional council general manager, having led Tamworth for six years and Parry Shire Council for 11 years.
Mr Inglis also filled a similar role with Tenterfield Shire Council and is currently a member of the Independent Local Government Review Panel.
While the appointment of a general manager requires a vote from all councillors, the committee has the authority to make the appointment of the interim position.
“It’s likely the new acting general manager will be in the position for three to six months while we go through the recruitment process,” Cr Bishop said.
The mayor said he was glad the council could now start looking towards the future.
“The process has been a distraction for councillors. Now that issue has been resolved amicably we can start looking forward.”
Mr Burns, who was appointed as general manager in 2001, was unavailable for comment yesterday after relinquishing his council mobile.
Cr Bishop said the terms of the general manager’s early contract release were confidential, but were in accordance with the council’s motion and Mr Burns’ contract.
“I’m sure the residents of Armidale, councillors and council staff will join with me in thanking Shane for his commitment to the city of Armidale.”
