MELTON City Council mayor Kathy Majdlik was escorted to her car by police after last week’s council meeting.
She has also received threats and remains “fearful” of a group of unruly residents.
However, Cr Majdlik declared she and her fellow councillors would not bow to pressure.
The vow came in the wake of Melton City Council’s first meeting last week, where incensed residents wreaked havoc in council chambers and were forcibly removed by police.
Cr Majdlik admitted that after last year’s final meeting, which was abandoned when the same group caused chaos within the gallery, she and other councillors held grave concerns for their safety – a concern supported by the strong police presence at last week’s meeting.
“We had to be escorted to our cars. I don’t know what to expect … in council chambers or when I’m out. It’s the unknown that I’m fearful of.
“All sorts of thoughts go through your head. I have been verbally abused … threats have been made.”
Cr Majdlik said she was “extremely disappointed” with the behaviour of the group and that the safety of other gallery members, councillors and council officers, was paramount.
“What they displayed was absolutely shocking,” she said.
The commotion began during public question time when a female member of the gallery ignored repeated requests from Cr Majdlik to refrain from filming the meeting.
Cr Majdlik then called on police to remove her from council chambers at which time a verbal confrontation ensued.
The female was eventually ejected from chambers. At least another three members of the gallery, were also forcibly removed from the chambers after they entered into a verbal altercation with members of the police force.
One resident who was thrown out of chambers threatened to sue police for “manhandling” him.
The rowdy meeting continued amid yelling from the council foyer.
During last year’s final meeting the council faced a torrent of questions from landowners questioning the council over taxes and rate increases.
Cr Majdlik read a statement at the opening of last week’s meeting asking members of the gallery to be respectful during the meeting.
“The council will not tolerate members who are disrespectful,” Cr Majdlik read.
“Those who are will be called to order and then removed by Victoria Police … this is an unfortunate consequence of previous disruptions.”
Cr Majdlik told Star any future attempts to disrupt council meetings would be futile and it will be “business as usual”.
“A bit of loud protesting won’t stop us.
“It’s full steam ahead to achieve the best outcome for the community.”
Cr Majdlik said Melton police will continue to attend meetings.
