2032 Olympic Games: Gold Coast councillor blasts CEO

A Gold Coast councillor has sensationally blasted city hall boss Tim Baker and his staff, warning the “honeymoon is over”. SEE THE VIDEO

A GOLD Coast councillor has sensationally blasted City Hall boss Tim Baker and his staff, warning the “honeymoon is over”.

Tensions at city hall have boiled over during a debate of the council’s 2032 Olympic Games infrastructure legacy, with a displeased Southport councillor Brooke Patterson furious over a report developed by Mr Baker’s office.

The report on the infrastructure legacy of the Games was developed after a workshop with councillors earlier this year.

The proposed satellite Athletes Village for the 2032 Olympic Games

However, Cr Patterson said it did not reflect the views of either the community or her colleagues.

The feedback provided by councillors for the report included calls for road and intersection upgrades, concerns around the future usage of the athlete’s village at Robina and key sporting infrastructure.

However, the Bulletin understands the report’s legacy recommendations included tree planting and vegetated stormwater drains.

Councillors were also upset they only received two days notice to consider the report.

Southport councillor Brooke Patterson while making her comments about Council CEO Tim Baker.

“The office of CEO and (its) officers possibly should get some good walking shoes and start doorknocking because it was almost like the intent of elected officials was completely disregarded,” she said during Friday’s full council meeting.

“This is the line in the sand and … his honeymoon is over.”

Mr Baker, who started in the role in February this year, was not present at the council meeting when Cr Patterson’s comments were made.

He said on Monday: “I acknowledge there is often lively debate in the council chamber”.

Council CEO Tim Baker.

“I am focused on the job council gave me which includes improving the culture within our organisation,” he said.

Councillors ultimately voted to note the report, which is expected to be heavily redrafted in coming weeks to better reflect the views of the community.

Cr Patterson told the Bulletin on Monday she respected the CEO and was pleased with his work but that she could not support the report.

“I’m a huge fan of the CEO and he is exactly what we need in so many ways,” she said.

“However, it had to be made clear the strategic intent of this council must be determined by the elected representatives.”

Follow @GCS_Pottsy