A chaotic council meeting in Casey, Melbourne, saw police intervene as frustrated ratepayers vocally opposed decisions made by the council. Residents protested against plans for a waste transfer station, rules limiting unregistered vehicles on private property, and a hefty $473 fee for households with more than two cars, deeming them as “bureaucratic overreach”.
The meeting’s atmosphere was heated, leading to a premature conclusion due to the uproar. Local resident Mike Trahar expressed that the community was seeking answers but felt unheard, and he critiqued the need for police presence as exaggerated. Mayor Stefan Koomen Voiced his disappointment, asserting that such behaviour is unacceptable and should not be tolerated.
Following a significant corruption scandal, the previous council was dismissed in 2020, and new councillors have been in place since November. Anthony Tassone of the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association labelled the event as crucial for the new councillors, emphasizing the need for them to heed community concerns. Casey Council did not provide a response to inquiries regarding the meeting issues.