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Controversial changes to waste management are under a cloud, with a former council director revealing he had made a report to the Independent Commission Against Corruption.
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The detailed report into “serious concerns” at the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre came less than a month after commercial development chief Paul Somerville left Wagga City Council.
In a statement released to the media, Mr Somerville said he had begun investigating “a number of issues” at the city dump shortly after being appointed by former general manager Alan Eldridge in November.
However, Mr Eldridge stood aside from his position before Mr Somerville was able to make a full report.
Mr Somerville said he had raised “serious allegations” about the facility with interim general manager Robert Knight, but was worried they may not have been properly addressed.
With councillors set to discuss changes to waste collection at Monday night’s meeting – including implementing the controversial food organics or “FOGO” system – Mr Somerville told The Daily Advertiser he felt compelled to go public.
“I wouldn’t take this action if I wasn’t deeply concerned, I don’t do it lightly,” Mr Somerville said.
“My strong recommendation to councillors would be to put this vote on hold until they have the full facts in front of them, I’d hate to see them make a decision they regret if and when these concerns come to light.
“It may be that there are no issues and I’m wrong, but I had to raise them.”
Details of the concerns are unknown, as Mr Somerville would not reveal exactly what he had sent to ICAC, but he indicated they involved the tender process for the handling of FOGO waste and possible unfairness.
Mayor Greg Conkey said he was aware of some of the issues raised by Mr Somerville ahead of Monday night’s meeting.
“The email, I’m sure, will form part of the discussion,” Cr Conkey said.
“It’s a tough situation and very concerning if there are probity issues – it’s a big tender and we need to get it right.
“No doubt councillors will have a copy of that press release and will be fully aware of it, whether it forms part of the discussion is up to them.”
In a written response to media questions, interim general manager Robert Knight said: “Mr Somerville is no longer an employee of Wagga City Council.”