COUNCILLOR-elect Tony Mileto will seek advice from the state government before he decides whether to resign as the Orange Resident and Ratepayers Association’s president.
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Given the association’s role in holding Orange City Council to account, Mr Mileto was asked how he would balance it with his role as a representative of the council.
He did not believe the roles were at odds with each other.
“I’ve been put here for a reason,” he said.
“If there’s a conflict of interest, it would be identified and obviously I wouldn’t have a part in any decision with anything with a conflict of interest.”
If I’m told it’s a conflict and I need to resign, I’ll resign as required
- Councillor-elect Tony Mileto
But he said he would be guided by the legislation.
“I will be speaking to the Office of Local Government – I’m not sure where I stand at this point,” he said.
“If I’m told it’s a conflict and I need to resign, I’ll resign as required.”
Councillors have a responsibility under the code of conduct not to bring the council into disrepute.
The requirement triggered sanctions against councillor Russell Turner last year when he encouraged the developer behind a hotel proposal in Byng Street to appeal the council’s rejection in the NSW Land and Environment Court.
Mr Mileto said he would make a decision prior to next week’s council meeting.
Councillors met for an introductory briefing on Tuesday night.