Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie has apologised for a conflict of interest linked to a proposed streetscape project at Peregian Beach, prompting a delay in a council decision.
Cr Wilkie declared a conflict of interest at a General Committee meeting on March 16, stemming from a $5000 electoral donation made by his mother, who lives near the proposed Peregian Active Street project site.
The Peregian Active Street Pilot is expected to boost safety and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians along an 800m section of Lorikeet Drive.
The project aims to reduce traffic speeds and improve community connections between Emu Mountain Road and Jabiru Street, and is fully funded through the South East Queensland Liveability Fund and the Active Transport Fund.
At an Ordinary Meeting on March 19, Cr Wilkie apologised to councillors and the community, accepting responsibility for not making the declaration earlier, as the project was initially considered an operational matter rather than a council decision.
“Pending further legal advice I wish to upfront apologise unreservedly, to my fellow councillors, staff and the community for a mistake I have made,” he said.
Cr Wilkie said he had previously disclosed to councillors and staff that he lived in the neighbourhood impacted by the works.
“When I received this (legal) advice I felt sick. And I am deeply sorry,” he said.
“Though I acted in good faith, I have misunderstood the conflict of interest regulations as they apply to this project.”
In accordance with the Local Government Act 2009, the matter has been referred to the Office of the Independent Assessor.
Deputy Mayor Cr Brian Stockwell said councillors had agreed to defer any decision on the project until June.
“This deferral is in the community’s best interest, and we look forward to considering the full report in two months’ time,” he said.
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Community feedback on the Peregian Beach Active Street Project has been mixed.
Many residents supported the project’s goals of improving safety, calming traffic and strengthening walking and cycling connections.
However, others raised concerns about parking impacts, potential traffic displacement, increased bike activity and associated safety issues, as well as changes to neighbourhood character.
Some residents also questioned how the new road design concept would function in practice and what it would mean for day-to-day property access and vehicle manoeuvrability.
