General manager Hamish McNulty said they had received “a number of inquiries” relating to Cr Hamed’s alleged inappropriate use of councillor expenditure, and both he and Mayor Steve Christou said they were treating the allegations “very seriously”.
Mr McNulty says the council has ordered a “full, independent audit” of all councillor expenses reimbursement claims.
“We will ensure an open and transparent process throughout this investigation and will ensure that ratepayer funds are being used appropriately,” he said.
“If during their investigation, any anomalies of concern are identified, we will have no hesitation in referring the matter to the appropriate authorities including the Office of Local Government NSW.”
However Cr Hamed has strongly rejected the accusations and said all of her claims for reimbursement of expenses incurred were “supported by receipts”.
“All claims have been in accordance with the policy and approved by council on the basis of civic duties I was performing at the time,” she said.
“To insinuate that carers allowance is only relevant to time spent in the chamber is false and misleading because the policy allows for any time spent on ‘official business’.”
