Mayor Tom Kennedy has instructed that the total fallout from legal matters associated with Civic Centre be made public, with Council expecting a shortfall in excess of $5.8 million.
Council has spent a total of $14.42m on legal matters regarding the Civic Centre, and had previously recouped $3.9m through settlements and insurance.
Earlier this month Council was awarded $4.74m in its battle against its former lawyers, Redenbach Legal, for overcharging, misappropriation of trust money, and misleading and deceptive conduct.
Despite the recent success Council is still facing a significant shortfall, and Mayor Kennedy said it was important that locals were not kept in the dark about the reality of the situation.
"I know the secrecy around these costs were a source of frustration for the community for a long time, and I said that if I was elected Mayor I would give the public the truth on this matter," he said.
"Unfortunately it's a terrible result, and the reality is that a $5.8 million shortfall is probably a best-case scenario, as we are still unsure of Redenbach Legal's ability to pay the $4.74m that was recently awarded to Council.
"I understand a lot of people are going to be shocked and angry at this result. I share those feelings, and we're doing all we can to get Council's finances in order without burdening ratepayers."
Mayor Kennedy said despite the hardship incurred by previous legal battles, Council had improved its finances in recent years whilst making local infrastructure its primary focus.
"We've had to accept that we can't change the past, and I believe this Council has done very well given the financial position it inherited," he said.
"We've completed major projects, rebuilt roads and footpaths, avoided any rate rises above the rate peg, and even managed a small surplus for the first time in many years despite rampant inflation during our term.
"It's been tough, and it will still be an uphill battle, but the community can rest assured that when money is tight under this Council, it's because ratepayer dollars are being put back into the community - and not into the hands of lawyers."
