Dr Allen, who has led the organisation for four and a half years, will vacate the position of Chief Executive Officer on 21 March.

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In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr Allen said she is leaving before her contract expires to “explore new opportunities while ensuring a smooth transition for the organisation.”

Dr Allen’s decision follows a meeting of councillors on Tuesday, 11 March, to discuss a “personnel matter”.

In addition to the Mayor, it was attended by councillors Nik Lipovac, Mark Hornshaw, Rachel Sheppard, Hamish Tubman, Chris Kirkman and Danielle Maltman, with Deputy Mayor Lauren Edwards joining remotely.

The meeting commenced with Cr Sheppard declaring a pecuniary significant interest in the single item on the agenda.

“The reason being is that I have been notified by internal legal counsel that matters under consideration in this item may give rise to a potential legal proceeding involving myself.

“This creates a potential financial interest in the outcome of Council’s decision and so I intend to leave the meeting, take no part in consideration in voting, and be out of sight during all consideration of this matter.”

Cr Sheppard left the chambers, along with the public, as the meeting moved into a closed session.

When everyone returned, the outcomes of the confidential discussion were read by Group Manager Governance, Michael Ferguson.

They were that Council:

1. Note that the Chief Executive Officer Dr Clare Allen, will not be seeking re-appointment of her contract upon its expiration on 31 January, 2026.

2. Delegate to the Mayor the authority to finalise a Deed of Settlement and Release…to facilitate a mutually agreed separation of the Chief Executive Officer from Council.

3. Maintain the confidentiality of the consideration in respect of the contents of this report.

The items were carried 5-2 with Crs Hornshaw, Kirkman, Lipovac, Maltman and Roberts voting for and Crs Edwards and Tubman voting against.

In the following day’s statement, Mayor Adam Roberts said Dr Allen would leave a legacy of passion and dedication.

“Dr Allen’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping a progressive, community-focused Council.”

Dr Allen, meanwhile, thanked Council staff “for their dedication, passion, and hard work”.

“It has been a privilege to lead such a committed team, and I remain passionate about community service.

“I look forward to contributing in new ways while continuing to call this wonderful region home.”

By Sue STEPHENSON