Acting mayor says he was surprised to learn one of his collegues was charged today by the CCC

THE acting mayor of one of Australia’s largest councils said he was shocked to learn that one of his fellow councillors was on Thursday charged by Queensland’s corruption watchdog.

Deputy Mayor Mike Charlton. Photo: Erin Smith

THE acting mayor of Moreton Bay Regional Council has expressed his shock at learning one of his fellow councillors was charged on Thursday by Queensland’s corruption watchdog.

Division 12 Cr Adrian Raedel was charged with one count of official corruption following an investigation by the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) into allegations of corrupt conduct.

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“It will be alleged the man, a current councillor, corruptly received benefits including a sum of money, prepaid travel, accommodation and advertising,” a CCC spokesman said.

Cr Raedel has been automatically suspended under the Local Government Act and if found not guilty then he is eligible for reinstatement, should his term of election still be current.

Council CEO Darryl Hitzman today advised council staff that they are not allowed to communicate with Cr Raedel, or with any other person acting on his behalf, in connection with any matters of official council business.

“I was aware that the CCC was investigating allegations of corrupt conduct relating to his behaviour and knew some details from a newspaper report last September, but today’s charge has come as a surprise,” acting mayor Mike Charlton said.

Councillors Mike Charlton and Adrian Raedel in promoting Shave for a Cure back in 2009.

“We live in an era of transparency and so it’s appropriate that when questions are asked, answers are given.

“The court process will deliver those answers and now that the matter is before the courts, it’s inappropriate to provide any further comment.”

Cr Charlton said that councillors were elected into a position of responsibility and trust and must live up to those standards.

“Public confidence in local government has taken a real hit following events last year in southeast council areas, including our own, which is distressing to those of us who are dedicated to the important work of local government,” he said.

“I hope the actions of a few won’t tarnish the reputation of local government more broadly and it’s incumbent on all of us know to make sure that’s the case.

“I’ve previously said that I believe the Belcarra report will bring positive reform to local government.

“We have been 100 per cent supportive of the State Government’s reforms and we will assist 100 per cent with the CCC if needed.

“We respect the CCC, we respect its processes and we support its role in our community.”

Cr Raedel has said he plans to fight the charges. He is expected to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on July 17.