Parramatta Lord Mayor Andrew Wilson accused of harassment as CEO Mark Stapleton defends CV
CIVIC leaders at Sydney’s second CBD have gone feral amid accusations of bullying and calls to step down.
NSW
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CIVIC leaders at Sydney’s second CBD have gone feral amid accusations of bullying and calls to step down.
Parramatta Council CEO Mark Stapleton has called for Lord Mayor Andrew Wilson to stand aside after a “very ugly meeting“ on Friday, August 31.
The spiteful discussion was over accusations that Mr Stapleton had falsified large parts of his resume before being given his $500,000 job earlier this year.
Mr Stapleton has in turn blasted Mr Wilson, alleging he felt bullied during the meeting..
Mr Stapleton has also denied falsifying his CV and vowed to “report for work” Monday morning.
“In relation to our meeting this morning, I wish to place on record that you were shouting and speaking at me in an aggressive voice while you were shaking violently as your face turned red,” Mr Stapleton said in an email to Mr Wilson obtained by The Sunday Telegraph.
“In relation to your view that I should “stand aside” (on pay), I cannot accept it. “I note that this is only your “view”, and that accordingly, you are fully aware that the Lord Mayor does not have any authority to suspend me.”
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Mr Wilson did not comment, although a staff member said “it was a very ugly meeting”.
Mr Stapleton was a controversial choice for CEO, with his appointment made after an 8-7 vote in the council chamber.
Mr Stapleton is backed by the Liberals and some Labor councillors including Pierre Esber.
Mr Wilson, a former staffer to Planning Minister Anthony Roberts, voted against Mr Stapleton’s appointment.
Sources said Mr Stapleton has a troubled relationship with Walker Corporation, the developer behind the $2 billion Parramatta Square urban renewal project.