By Scott MacLeod
HAMILTON - One of the most senior managers at Hamilton City Council has resigned after allegations that he abused car privileges.
Mike Martin, who managed the city's many community services, resigned on Friday after 20 years with the council in senior roles.
The council's chief executive, Tony Marryatt, alleged Mr Martin had breached the council's light vehicle policy by taking a car home without the authority to do so. The breach could lead to dismissal.
"It was serious misconduct," Mr Marryatt said.
Mr Martin confirmed from his Chedwood Park home that he had resigned, but refused to elaborate.
"I have no further comment," he said. "Have a good day."
Some at the council were unaware of the resignation yesterday.
Mr Marryatt said a stern warning had been issued to staff two years ago after a spate of problems with council workers breaching the car policy. Mr Martin's seniority meant he should have been setting an example.
"That's part of the message - the rules were broken and it doesn't matter who broke them," Mr Marryatt said.
Mr Martin had been allowed to use a car as part of his salary package, but gave up that right when his pay was renegotiated last year. Mr Marryatt said the incident that sparked the resignation was an isolated one for Mr Martin.
Mr Martin leaves a legacy of quiet behind-the-scenes work punctuated by occasional public controversy.
In June 1997, he offered a take-it-or-leave-it funding package to the Exscite science centre that gave the council some control over its operations. Exscite trustees accused him of leading a hostile takeover bid.
A funding deal was eventually struck when Mr Marryatt took over the negotiating role from Mr Martin.
Mr Marryatt has also been controversial. In May last year the council was forced to pay compensation to high-ranking manager Hugh Kettlewell, who was sacked after a clash with Mr Marryatt.
Mayor Russ Rimmington could not be reached for comment yesterday.
Hamilton council manager resigns suddenly
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