A Sunbury-based councillor, who was suspended for 28 days after a second probe into his conduct at a fiery town hall meeting, says money spent on a political ‘witchhunt’ could have helped save programs for at-risk youth.
But the council maintains the initial investigation had to be handled by an independent body because it included complaints about the organisation.
Cr Jack Medcraft said the cost of the first probe, which he claims ‘‘solved nothing’’, could have funded two Moving Forward programs to give young people ‘‘a fighting chance’’.
Related: Councillor Jack Medcraft probed over terrorism comments
The council has previously called on the federal government to reinstate funding for the eight-week program, which helped young people who had disengaged from education or employment.
An invoice seen by Star Weekly shows the first investigation, which Cr Medcraft and Cr Jack Ogilvie have claimed cleared them of any wrongdoing, cost $32,849.83.
Cr Medcraft said the money could have been saved by keeping the investigation in-house.
‘‘Instead, it’s spent all this money on a witchhunt,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s a total waste of ratepayers’ money.’’
Hume chief executive Domenic Isola said the initial probe included complaints about the organisation.
‘‘A council can’t investigate itself,’’ he said.
Mr Isola said the subsequent Municipal Association of Victoria conduct panel considered a range of evidence, including the initial report, in drawing its conclusion.
As reported by Star Weekly, Cr Medcraft is appealing his one-month suspension after the second inquiry into claims he breached the code of conduct. Cr Ogilvie was reprimanded.
The probes followed complaints made after a meeting at Broadmeadows Town Hall last September.
It was alleged Cr Medcraft tussled with a Broadmeadows Progress Association supporter over a sign and yelled at a number of people. Cr Ogilvie was accused of intimidating behaviour.
