By Ewen McRae
Tributes flowed at last week’s meeting of Melton council, following the passing of former chief executive Neville Smith.
Mr Smith was a general manager at Melton council before being appointed as CEO in 2002 – a position he held until 2010 when he left to take on the same role at Moonee Valley council.
Mr Smith, 67, died on October 12 after a battle with cancer. Mayor Bob Turner said he would be fondly remembered by the Melton community.
“Neville was a highly respected and admired leader in local government, with a quirky sense of humour and an outgoing personality,” Cr Turner said. “Neville became and remained a close friend to many at Melton, and his passing is a great loss.”
Councillor Sophie Ramsey said Mr Smith had been a strong advocate for improving Melton. “He was an admired leader, and a respected work colleague, who worked tirelessly for the City of Melton,” Cr Ramsey said.
Council flew flags outside Melton Civic Centre and Caroline Springs library at half mast on October 18, the day of Mr Smith’s funeral.
