Mayor reveals she refused to sign CEO’s contract

A south-east Queensland mayor has called for an independent investigation into her council’s hiring process for a CEO after allegations of conflicts of interest and potential political interference were uncovered by this masthead.

The hiring of Redland City Council chief Louise Rusan in February 2025 was preceded by two recruitment processes, both of which were marred by controversy.

In the first, a respected recruiter quit after he raised potential conflicts of interest with having council staff on the recruitment panel – as it would be inappropriate for staff to know confidential information about their future boss, and there were applicants with whom they were peers.

During the second round, then-acting CEO Louise Rusan appeared to be shoehorned into the final round of interviews during a meeting of councillors that deviated from the agreed process.

Following that meeting, councillor Wendy Boglary wrote to internal audit and risk figures to seek advice about potential political interference.

A council spokesperson said the decision was above board, and this masthead is not suggesting Rusan acted inappropriately.

First-term Redlands mayor Jos Mitchell said while she supported the appointment in a public meeting and a statement, she refused to sign Rusan’s contract.

When asked who did sign the contract, a council spokesperson said employment contracts’ content was confidential.

Mitchell said she would support “a genuinely independent investigation of the entire recruitment process”.

“I believe this would be the most appropriate way forward for the organisation and the community.”

The Crime and Corruption Commission could investigate, if a complaint were to be made and if the circumstances met their threshold.

The Queensland Ombudsman could also compile a report and make recommendations.

This masthead is not suggesting a crime has been committed or that anyone has acted corruptly.

Mitchell, elected just months before the recruitment drive, said she was sidelined from the process, a situation that sources with experience in the sector said was unusual.

“I did wish to chair the recruitment panel and did convey my wishes,” she said.

“During the first process, I was informed that the decision was made by the majority of councillors to have an alternative chair.

“Due to my concerns, I queried this process with multiple bodies, seeking advice.”

Mitchell said she was elected “on a platform of ensuring transparency”.

“Sadly, I believe some may have blocked the attempts I and others have made to bring transparency to bear.

“I strongly believe the process that was undertaken for the appointment of the CEO did not meet the expectations I and the community had when it comes to transparency.”

Mitchell’s term has been marked by infighting and flux at the council, which was led by mayor Karen Williams for the 12 years prior.

Williams finished up as mayor and did not contest the 2024 council election after pleading guilty to drink-driving in a council-owned car.

Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.