The Otago Daily Times asked the council if a version of a report by Deloitte following up on the firm’s investigation of financial and reporting practices could be made available.
Information released included that a series of improvement opportunities and recommendations had been developed, but the details were entirely redacted.
The firm had earlier reviewed a wide range of electronic records, emails, financial records, briefing papers and meeting minutes, and carried out interviews.
No financial irregularities were established, the council said previously.
The council disclosed this week the investigation and reports by Deloitte cost $267,024.
Law firm Anderson Lloyd’s involvement cost $111,283.45.
Several by-election candidates called for the council to be more forthcoming about what had been learned.
Conrad Stedman said the council should be as upfront as possible.
‘‘Ratepayers deserve to know not just that concerns were investigated, but that tangible improvements have been made to systems, processes and governance,’’ he said.
‘‘Going forward, the focus should be on ensuring lessons learned are implemented and clearly communicated, so the community can have confidence that the council is operating effectively and responsibly.’’
Lync Aronson said he was glad the whistleblowers’ concerns were taken seriously.
‘‘However, while I haven’t seen the report myself, completely redacting the improvement opportunities feeds the narrative of a lack of transparency and accountability at the council.’’
Jo Galer said it was an important report paid for by ratepayers and it should be publicly released.
‘‘This was an election issue last year and continues to be in this by-election,’’ she said.
Being a whistleblower took courage, she said.
Andrew Whiley said the amount spent was more than double what he had anticipated.
‘‘A summary report should be released publicly, including what has been learned plus details of changes that have been implemented,’’ he said.
‘‘A deeper understanding of whistleblower complaints is essential.’’
Lianna MacFarlane said voters wanted transparency, disclosure and integrity in all things that could have a material impact on council decisions.
‘‘All councillors and candidates need to take note.’’
The cost sounded expensive, but consultants did not come cheap, she said.
Bill Acklin noted the ODT’s recent reporting on confidentiality breaches at the council.
Given this, he said he had no comment on the Deloitte report or the council’s whistleblower policy.
