Lismore City Council general manager Michael Donnelly’s job in doubt

Lismore City Council and Mayor Steve Krieg have refused to comment on speculation general manager Michael Donnelly could be replaced six months into his four-year tenure.

Michael Donnelly was appointed as Lismore City Council general manager last year.

Lismore City Council general manager Michael Donnelly’s job is in question just six months into a four-year contract as a snap meeting is called.

An extraordinary meeting has been scheduled for Monday night.

Council notified the public on Monday morning the meeting would remain confidential as it referred to “personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors).”

Michael Donnelly was announced as Lismore City Council's new general manager in May 2021

Lismore City Council went through an exhaustive process to appoint Mr Donnelly and he was voted in unanimously as general manager last year.

Councillor Vanessa Ekins, who appointed Mr Donnelly to his role when she was mayor in 2021, said she was not happy with the move.

“Michael Donnelly is a hard working and meticulous general manager,” she said.

“I am concerned about the financial sustainability and future of Lismore.

“He has the respect of councillors and staff and a real focus on organisational efficiency and financial sustainability.”

Vanessa Ekins appointed Michael Donnelly as interim GM in February 2021 and then on a four-year contract in July

Another general manager appointment to Lismore City Council would be the sixth in as many years.

Lismore City Council and Mayor Steve Krieg declined to comment.

Mr Donnelly was contacted for comment.