Yesterday, councillors rejected the $1.5 million dollar deal with Ganson Group to settle legal action, demolish, and renovate the building containing Criddles for Curtains, the old Pet Centre, and United Video on Queen Street.

Council chief executive Geoff Swainson confirmed the decision, which happened in a closed door meeting, but said that the council would not be commenting on the legal proceedings.

News of the deal which was greeted with fury on social media, was revealed by The Post, but Swainson called it “a breach of confidence and legal privilege”. Going on to say “Council is taking this matter very seriously and commencing an investigation into the incident.”

Comments indicated that the reason these decisions have been made in meetings closed to the public, is that these issues are sensitive information and if the public were allowed to attend, they would challenge it. Others have asked how can they just give money from the rate payers to a private enterprise without public consultation?

Mayoral candidate Peri Zee said it was a welcome outcome. “Our community deserves a vibrant city and responsible spending of our public money.”

Related article: Secret vote to throw more cash at stalled mall development

Source: The Post

15/05/25