Mandurah mayor Amber Kearns 'disappointed' in councillor Peter Rogers' decision to resign

Mandurah mayor Amber Kearns has expressed her disappointment after councillor Peter Rogers announced his resignation two years before his term was due to end.

Mr Rogers, who has been a Town Ward councillor for 12 years, posted his resignation letter to social media on Monday, citing the Council's "leadership and a lack of strategic direction".

"Council’s leadership and lack of strategic direction fall short of what is required to maintain the high standards and level of achievement we have come to expect," Mr Rogers' resignation letter said.

"While my commitment to the Mandurah community remains unchanged, the Council no longer aligns with my professional values or expectations for effective governance, and as a result the only honest and responsible course of action for me to take is to step away from my role to allow for renewed representation."

Ms Kearns said while she respected Mr Rogers' decision to resign, she does not entirely agree with his reasoning.

"I respect Councillor Rogers’ decision to resign from his role as Councillor of the Town Ward, and I acknowledge his service to Council over his time in office," Ms Kearns said.

"That being said, I disagree with much of what he has said in his resignation letter, and am disappointed that he has made the decision to walk away from his role with two years still to left to run in his term. 

"Local government is an environment where differing views, robust discussion and healthy debate are not only expected, but are an important part of good governance and decision making. That should not be mistaken for dysfunction."

Ms Kearns said she remains confident in the professionalism and capability of the City’s administration.

"While I respect Councillor Rogers’ right to his views, I do not believe the claims being made publicly reflect the reality of the work currently being undertaken by Council, Elected Members and City staff, particularly given his limited involvement in many of Council’s day to day discussions and activities since the October election.

"Like any Council, there will naturally be differing opinions around priorities, leadership styles and approaches. What matters is that decisions continue to be made lawfully, transparently and in the best interests of the community, and that continues to occur."

Mr Rogers will serve as Town Ward councillor until June 30.

Ms Kearns said it is "disappointing" that the City will now likely have to hold an extraordinary election to fill the vacancy created by Cr Rogers’ early departure.

"I will update the community once we have confirmed details with the WA Electoral Commission," she said.