At the Council meeting on 28 November, Ms Cowley’s resignation was discussed by Councillors in a closed session.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

The meeting minutes show only that Council, “Notes the confidential correspondence from Natalia Cowley (General Manager) to Cr Nikki Williams (Mayor) dated 25 November, 2024, and accepts her resignation as General Manager of the City of Coffs Harbour with effect from 22 January, 2025.”

Ms Cowley’s contribution over the past two and a half years was acknowledged and Council wished her well with her future endeavours.

Andrew Beswick was appointed as Acting General Manager until a replacement is found (for a maximum period of up to 12 months) or until a further resolution of the Council, whichever occurs first.

Councillors Williams, Cecato, Fowler, Oxford and Saro voted for the motion and Councillors Amos, Cassell, Judge and Sechi voted against it.

The confidential nature of the closed session prevents councillors discussing what happened.

Ms Cowley is a recent recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to the Public Sector Award from the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Australia and New Zealand.

Before joining the City of Coffs Harbour, she was instrumental in steering Central Coast Council out of the biggest financial crisis in recent local government history.

“Natalia’s financial management is exemplary,” Councillor Tony Judge told News Of The Area.

“Coffs Harbour is one of the few councils in NSW with its finances in a strong position.”

He said that some councillors were not made aware of Ms Cowley’s resignation until 2:30pm on the day of the meeting, despite it being submitted days earlier.

“I’m disappointed in the lack of transparency around the announcement and I feel that some councillors were gagged.”

By Andrew VIVIAN