UPDATE: The public spat between two Maribyrnong councillors has escalated with tit-for-tat accusations of petulance and fabrication.
Star Weekly last week reported claims by Cr Catherine Cummings that she only apologised for implying Cr Michael Clarke was racist to save ratepayers $20,000 in tribunal costs.
But Cr Clarke has labelled the suggestion “a complete and utter fabrication” that ignores her role in racking up a $15,000 bill on mediation.
“While Cr Cumming’s apology to me was heartfelt, her subsequent description of the circumstances around her actions is a very poor commentary on this councillor’s character,” he said.
“I feel like a victim being told that they deserved the abuse. Her words were hurtful and untrue.”
Cr Cumming apologised at a recent council meeting for telling Cr Clarke last October he could be seen as racist over his decision to nominate fellow Labor councillor Martin Zakharov as mayor, rather than backing Cr Nam Quach who has Vietnamese heritage.
Cr Clarke said the “tirade” occurred at a mayoral function in front of Cr Martin Zakharov and a council officer and within earshot of the public.
Yet Cr Cumming maintains the conversation was private and could not have been overheard.
She said Cr Clarke’s complaint was purely political and the first time in her 18 years on council another councillor had officially raised a grievance with her.
“Normally you sort it out between yourselves with a phone call or next time you see each other,” she said.
“He should be embarrassed by his behaviour.”
Cr Cumming said she bears no responsibility for the $15,000 bill as she should never have had to apologise because it was what she truly felt.
Cr Clarke labelled her claim she only apologised to save ratepayers money “an absolute joke”.
“Cr Cummings’ petulance has cost our community $15,000, she could have cost the City an additional $20,000 if not more had the matter reached the Racial Vilifications Tribunal.”
Maribyrnong Council would not release any details or costs relating to councillor mediation.
