Representing his Greystanes ward for the last time after announcing plans to step down in order to take up an “advocacy role” in Western Sydney, Labor councillors Glenn Elmore, Lisa Lake, Steve Christou, George Campbell and Suman Saha heaped praise on Cr Grove.
In particular they noted his sense of humour and constructive approach to issues.
In the face of the unexpectedly fulsome praise, Cr Grove says he has always had a good relationship with both Liberal and Labor colleagues, adding that he has always taken issues “on their merit”.
“I’m leaving with the council in good shape,” he said.
“And it’s in good shape because we have councillors who are willing to fight.
“We don’t always agree with each other but we have one of the best collaborative cultures.”
At tomorrow’s meeting, councillors will consider whether or not to hold a by-election for the vacant seat for an estimated $200,000.
However with less than 18 months until the next full local government election, they are able to opt to continue with just 14 councillors until September 2020.
Full praise for retiring Grove
BOWING out of local politics last month, Cumberland Councillor Ross Grove received plenty of verbal bouquets from his colleagues particularly those on the other side of the political fence.
