Isle of Wight Council faces serious governance failings and risks Government intervention unless urgent reforms are made, an independent report has warned.
The review by governance expert Richard Penn highlighted a breakdown in trust between councillors and officers, allegations of bullying and poor adherence to the council's codes of conduct.
Penn described the council's culture as ‘dysfunctional' and said ‘inappropriate member behaviour was a symptom of wider organisational problems'.
He wrote: ‘While inappropriate member behaviour has been, to some extent, a trigger for this review it is clear to me there are issues that need to be addressed in respect of the organisation as an entity, and that what is required is a set of actions involving members and officers that will help to restore respect and trust between officers and members.'
The report urged ‘immediate action', including strengthening the council's standards processes, restoring mutual respect, and improving officer support and councillor training.
It also called for a dedicated standards committee and for senior governance roles to be ‘elevated'.
Penn warned that without ‘rapid change the potential for Government intervention is a reality'.
Chief executive Wendy Perera said: ‘This report is a moment for reflection and renewal.'
