The resignation of the CEO has, of course, created front-page news and a lot of speculation, some of it around his final pay.

Whilst I cannot comment on confidential contractual matters and entitlements (and people need to remember that a final payout involves annual leave, long-service leave, superannuation etc) I can say that my highest intent was - and always will be - to act in the best interests of the ratepayers of Cairns.

From December 2009, the new Local Government Act will force full disclosure of the salaries of CEOs.

Business is continuing at Council with big issues on the agenda, the main one being the budget which will be brought down on 29 June 2009.