After being on extended leave since Christmas Eve, Council has now informed the public that its Director of Engineering & Works, Gino Belsito, is no longer working for them.

Mr Belsito, second from right, with Gareth Ward MP, Councillor Warren Steel and Mayor Mark Honey at a funding announcement for a staircase at Bombo Headland

The brief statement saying his employment with Council “has ceased” has done little to quell rumours that have been circulating since his abrupt departure.

The statement continued to say, “Council acknowledges Mr Belsito’s contribution to a number of projects and initiatives during his time with Council.

“Out of respect for Gino’s privacy no further comment will be made.”

The former Director had a high public profile in his role developing and delivering projects throughout the Municipality.

He was one of the applicants for the General Manager role when Michael Forsyth retired.

Darren Brady will continue as Acting Director until a replacement is found.