Councillors agree to hire a new CEO to replace Darryl Hitzman, who quit suddenly in September

A Queensland council that has endured a tumultuous few years is closing in on the appointment of a new CEO, despite an election just months away.

Moreton Bay Council is closing in on the appointment of a new CEO. Picture: David Alexander

COUNCILLORS are closing in on the appointment of Moreton Bay’s new top dog after the shock resignation of former CEO Daryl Hitzman.

Mayor Allan Sutherland and acting CEO Graeme Kanofski will “do all things necessary” to finalise a deal with their preferred candidate after a behind-closed-doors vote by councillors this week.

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The new CEO will have their hands full, with major reforms going on within the council itself, and a local government election just months away.

A number of people have expressed concern that councillors should delay the hiring of a new CEO until the new council is voted in next March.

However, just Division 1 councillor Brook Savige voted against the motion to employ a new CEO.

All other councillors present at Tuesday’s vote were in favour.

Mr Hitzman spectacularly quit his post on September 10 after overseeing a tumultuous period in the fledgling council’s existence.

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The Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) has three ongoing investigations relating to the council, while a recent independent operational review found a host of issues within its walls, not least there being a “toxic” work culture.

This review has since led to the departure of a number of staff members as well as a series of council policy changes as well as a new internal management structure.

The council’s Planning department was also under fire over a botched major amendment to the planning scheme and a number of senior planning staff members left.

Mr Kanofski, who has about 40 years experience in local government, has been at the forefront of those changes.