Arabic version: استقالة عضو مجلس هانترز هيل متحدثاً عن «غرفة سامة»

According to ABC News, independent Hunter’s Hill councillor Marc Lane has resigned mid-term, citing his mental health and council decisions he believes were made along political lines.

Mr Lane, who was elected in 2024 and tendered his resignation to the council on Wednesday last week, described the north shore Sydney council as a “toxic chamber” in a social media video. He said he disagreed with several decisions by the Liberal-dominated council, arguing they had been made without independent advice. He said party political lines had prevailed over community views, independents and expert advice.

Among his concerns, Mr Lane criticised plans to examine 18 parcels of council-owned land, including some waterfront sites, for potential sale. He said there was no financial reason to sell the land. The councillor, who has a background in city planning, also questioned a proposed redevelopment of Gladesville Shopping Village that would add apartments up to 70 metres high, saying it was being pursued without proper debate.

Mr Lane also said a Liberal councillor had effectively “chilled” his public social-media communication about local campaigns after a council-meeting question about one of his videos. He said the Office of Local Government told him the question should not have occurred because it should have been ruled a breach of the code of conduct.

Mayor Zac Miles said he hoped Mr Lane could get the help he needed and wished him well. Responding to the description of the chamber, Cr Miles said councillors acted with integrity and respect, and that meeting recordings showed a “robust and engaged chamber”. He said no land sales had been agreed and any asset-recycling decision would follow extensive community consultation. The council is asking the NSW Electoral Commission about filling the vacancy.