Mum of disabled girl demands mayor’s resignation

THE mother of a disabled girl has demanded that a mayor snapped parking in a disabled spot resign — and expressed her anger over being denied the chance to ask her about it.

Christine Stow with her daughter Imyjen Steele, 17, at the disabled spot where Mayor Kris Pavlidis was spotted parking. Picture: Sarah Matray

A MAYOR has been spotted parking in a designated disabled spot while attending the launch of a cafe for people with intellectual disabilities.

Whittlesea Mayor Kris Pavlidis slammed for parking in disabled spot at Mill Park Library event

Former Whittlesea councillor Christine Stow Stow, whose daughter suffers from Schwartz Jampel Syndrome and is unable to walk, said she was “sickened” when she saw the Leader’s report of the incident at Mill Park Library.

The mayor parked her car in a disabled spot at Mill Park library last Friday. Picture: Supplied

It’s understood Cr Pavlidis was directed to park in the spot by Yarra Plenty Regional Library staff on the orders of Mill Park Library Branch Manager Serena Bellotti, who made the decision to designate the space for a “VIP” at the launch of Chancez Café, rather than keep it available for people with disabilities.

“I am saddened for those who cannot walk or cannot talk, cannot defend themselves like my daughter Imyjen,” she said.

“The mayor is thumbing her nose at people with a disability so she should step down from her position.”

Ms Stow had attempted to ask questions at last week’s council meeting, including about whether the mayor would be penalised for her actions but was denied because they weren’t pertinent to the evening’s agenda.

Mayor Kris Pavlidis apologised for parking in the spot. Picture: Supplied

Christine and her daughter Imyjen Steele, 17. Ms Steele has Schwartz Jampel Syndrome and can’t walk. Picture: Sarah Matray

“That sickened me even more,” Ms Stow said.

Readers also reacted angrily to the news, with many saying it was a poor decision and unacceptable behaviour.

Cr Pavlidis apologised for parking in the spot last Tuesday while promising to donate $200 to Chancez Café.

Whittlesea Council said it could not fine Cr Pavlidis in retrospect as fines can only be issued if the offence is witnessed by an authorised local laws officer.

Yarra Plenty Libraries chief executive Di Shaw also apologised for parking mishap.

“We apologise for this mistake and any embarrassment we have caused the Mayor,” Ms Shaw said.

Cr Pavlidis highlighted the need to ensure people with disabilities were given equal opportunity during her first speech as Mayor.