Mayor of Lismore Steve Krieg has issued a statement on the resignation of Lismore City Council General Manager (GM) Jon Gibbons.

It reads:

I have accepted the resignation of Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons, who is stepping down due to family reasons. While I am saddened by his departure, I respect his decision and thank him for his dedicated service to our community.

Mr Gibbons has been a valuable leader for Lismore City Council during a critical period in our city's recovery. His guidance and steady leadership have been instrumental in navigating the challenges we have faced, and I extend my sincere gratitude for his contributions during his tenure.

Throughout his time with Council, Mr Gibbons has played a key role in strengthening the relationship between Councillors and the executive team. He has worked closely with staff to develop and implement new strategies and processes aimed at improving productivity and operational efficiency. 

Beyond his role within Council, Mr Gibbons has been a dedicated advocate for Lismore and its recovery. On behalf of Lismore City Council and our community, I thank him for his service and wish him all the best for the future.

Cr Steve Krieg

Mayor of Lismore

There was no mention of Mr Gibbons's notice period or who will be the interim GM while the process to find a replacement takes place. As we know from the hiring process of previous General Managers, we are talking a minimum six-month timeframe.

Mr Gibbons was hired on a five-year agreement that began on February 9 2023, when he replaced acting GM John Walker.

The Lismore GM role is somewhat of a poisoned chalice. Mr Gibbons was the sixth GM in six years for Lismore City Council, so when the new GM is appointed, they will be the seventh in eight years, if they are appointed in 2025.