Hobart council 'snack saga' draws police involvement

A dispute over the alleged unauthorized taking of snacks and drinks from a council lounge has escalated within the City of Hobart, drawing in police and prompting calls for resignation. Deputy Lord Mayor Zelinda Sherlock has admitted to taking provisions from the elected members' lounge over several years and has apologized for her actions.

The issue gained public attention earlier this month when Councillor Louise Elliot released photos and documents, purportedly showing Cr Sherlock entering the council chambers after hours and leaving with bags of items. This has ignited heated exchanges on social media, led to a claim of blackmail, and resulted in a referral to the police commissioner.

In response to the deteriorating conduct, Acting Director of Local Government Luke Gregory implored councillors to respect their obligations and act in the community's best interest. He warned that further deterioration would necessitate careful consideration of regulatory options. Cr Elliot has proposed a motion for an independent investigation into the incident, to be debated behind closed doors.

“

Should conduct and standards continue to deteriorate, I will need to carefully consider and balance all potential regulatory options that may be appropriate in those circumstances.

However, Mr. Gregory stated the motion was unnecessary as his office was already aware and investigating. He cautioned against using regulatory responsibilities as a tool for political agendas. The allegations have already been referred to the police, and Cr Sherlock has reportedly filed a counter-claim of blackmail against Cr Elliot, which is also under police review.

Earlier this year, a motion for an independent investigation into Cr Sherlock's alleged taking of ratepayer-funded food and drink failed. The issue resurfaced after Cr Elliot obtained documents under Tasmania's right-to-information laws. These included CCTV images showing Cr Sherlock and an unidentified companion leaving the building with a shopping bag filled with refreshments on two occasions in January 2024. Emails revealed items such as soft drinks, wine, beer, nuts, and chocolates had been removed from the lounge after no events were held.

“

I wish to make clear that my office and its regulatory responsibilities are not to be utilised as a tool to further agendas by individual members against their political opponents.