Mornington Peninsula ratepayers are set to fund the cost of two municipal monitors, paid $1,375 per day each plus expenses, after Mayor Anthony Marsh claimed the appointments were his idea. STPL News examines potential annual costs, the governance context, and what documentation has not been produced publicly.
Mayor Anthony Marsh says he sought advice about appointing a monitor, as the Victorian Government confirms two municipal monitors will oversee Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for 12 months.
STPL News has been told two monitors have been appointed to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council by the Victorian Minister for Local Government. Once confirmed, the appointments would make Cr Anthony Marsh the first mayor in Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s history to have two monitors appointed at the same time.
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Cam Williams has apologised after fallout from an STPL News interview, claiming some comments were “not accurate” and confirming a Council Watch post was removed. STPL News has contacted Williams seeking clarification on what he now disputes.
An anonymous MPSC insider has contacted STPL News alleging a new wave of departures, following senior staff exits in December 2024 and January 2025, as well as redundancies in September. The source also claims the Local Government Inspectorate is continuing its presence inside the organisation.
Mornington Peninsula Shire has been forced into a backflip, reinstating Council votes on interstate travel after public backlash shut down a $2K expense loophole.
Mornington Peninsula Shire is moving to scrap Council approval for expenses over $2,000 and interstate travel, leaving decisions to the CEO’s pen. Critics warn the change strips away transparency and accountability.
