BREAKING: A public inquiry into Liverpool City Council has revealed shocking details about the dismissal of former chief executive Farooq Portelli, following a controversial decision involving an undischarged bankrupt. This urgent development comes as the NSW Office of Local Government investigates serious allegations of mismanagement and dysfunction within the council.
Portelli, who served as the director of corporate services, testified that tensions with Mayor Ned Mannoun escalated after he appointed Matt Daniel as the new planning director in 2013. Just weeks after the appointment, Portelli received a letter alleging that Daniel was bankrupt. “I got a sick feeling in my stomach,” Portelli recounted, after a front-page story confirmed the claims. He realized this breach of employment terms would necessitate Daniel’s dismissal.
In a critical move, Portelli informed Mannoun about the situation, but the mayor was reportedly displeased, believing Daniel was performing well. Portelli stated, “The mayor was not happy with that,” highlighting the growing rift between them.
The inquiry, which is examining the council’s handling of over $150 million in state government grants and other financial matters, also unveiled the fallout from Portelli’s performance review with Mannoun and other councillors in early 2014. Portelli received mixed scores, indicating a clear disconnect with the mayor, who seemed intent on removing him from his position.
On March 26, 2014, following a series of events and Portelli’s earlier complaint to the Office of Local Government, councillors voted to terminate his employment with 38 weeks’ pay. This was a significant moment, as it marked the dismissal of yet another council chief executive amid ongoing leadership turmoil.
Portelli later reflected on the events, stating, “I’ve had an impeccable career,” and expressed a desire to part ways amicably. Nevertheless, he returned to work for the council in 2022, while Mannoun continues his tenure as mayor.
The inquiry, led by Commissioner Ross Glover, is ongoing as it seeks to address the council’s conduct and its impact on the community. Officials like Mannoun and Peter Ristevski are yet to testify, leaving many questions unanswered.
Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig initiated this inquiry last July, following alarming reports of dysfunction within the council. The public is eager to see how these revelations will reshape the leadership landscape in Liverpool and what further actions may be taken against those involved.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
