Whittlesea Council reach ‘confidential settlement’ with former CEO Simon Overland
Whittlesea Council has reached an undisclosed settlement with former chief executive Simon Overland after months of disputes and hundreds of thousands in legal fees. And sources say the size of the payout is “significant”.
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Whittlesea Council has reached a settlement with its former chief executive Simon Overland. But it will not reveal any further details on the “confidential” matter.
Sources have told Leader the former Victoria Police boss had agreed on a “significant” figure close to $400,000 — to be paid in three instalments over the next 12 months.
Mr Overland still had two years remaining on his contract for which he was due to be paid $800,000, when his peers terminated his contract while he was on sick leave on December 10.
The council paid out Mr Overland for a three-month notice period after the sacking.
Mr Overland’s “adverse action” claim against the council with Fair Work Commission was poised to reach the Federal Court after mediation talks failed last month.
But Whittlesea Council administrator Lydia Wilson said the “confidential settlement” finalised all matters relating to the controversial former chief executive.
“In reaching this settlement with Mr Overland, we avoid a lengthy court process and further legal costs in relation to this matter,” she said.
“I have reviewed a number of documents, including the independent Monitor’s Report that examined governance and operations at the City of Whittlesea.
“I believe this decision is in the best interest of the organisation and our community.”
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“We wish Mr Overland well in his future endeavours, and I look forward to working closely with the community and staff to ensure that Whittlesea is a place for all.”
The State Government sacked Whittlesea Council on March 19 after monitor Yehudi Blacher’s report found clear evidence that governance had collapsed.