Source : Perth Now news
A Tasmanian city council has referred their deputy lord mayor to police over allegations she took snacks from a council lounge.
Hobart City councillors have voted five to three to refer deputy lord mayor Zelinda Sherlock to Tasmania Police and the director of local government over allegations she took home snacks not meant for her.
The councillor has been embroiled in a public scandal after CCTV footage showed her taking snacks and drinks meant to be consumed in the council’s Elected Members’ Lounge, on multiple occasions.
Dr Sherlock has since apologised publicly for her actions, saying she had misunderstood the council policy.
As the matter came to light, several fellow councillors called on Dr Sherlock to resign; however, the deputy lord mayor has refused to stand down.
The matter was referred to Tasmania Police in March, but police advised there was insufficient evidence to establish a crime of stealing.
On Monday, Hobart City Council held a closed meeting in which it was decided Dr Sherlock’s conduct would be again referred to police and the director of local government.
Newly released minutes of the meeting stated the council “makes no finding concerning the conduct of any person while those independent processes remain incomplete”.
The letter sent by City of Hobart chief executive Michael Stretton would support an investigation if deemed necessary.
“I write further to a resolution of the Hobart City Council on 27 July 2026 regarding the removal of refreshments and other goods from the Elected Members’ Lounge which was identified in January 2024 and the City of Hobart’s subsequent management response,” the letter read.
“Notwithstanding previous consideration by Tasmania Police, the Office of Local Government and independent legal advisers, differing views continue to exist regarding both the conduct itself and the adequacy of the City of Hobart’s response.
“Given those differing views, the ongoing public interest in the matter, the importance of maintaining confidence in local government governance arrangements, and consistent with the council’s direction, I respectfully refer this matter for any further consideration your offices consider appropriate.
“The City of Hobart will continue to make available any additional records, correspondence, file notes, CCTV material, legal advice, council reports and supporting documentation should they be requested.”
Councillor responds
Dr Sherlock took to social media on Friday thanking her supporters and reiterating her actions were based on a misunderstanding of the policy.
“I know there’s been a lot of concern within the community about my use of council – therefore public – resources. I just want to make things as clear as I can,” she said.
“The Acting CEO raised the issue with me in January 2024, and he was satisfied with my explanation that it was a misunderstanding, for which I apologised – and no misconduct had occurred.
“In January 2026, independent legal advice also concluded that no misconduct had occurred.
“In March 2026, Tasmania Police also concluded that there was insufficient evidence for an offence.
“In June 2026, the Integrity Commission also investigated and cleared me of any misconduct.”
Dr Sherlock said she had attempted to reimburse council but was unable to due to certain processes.
“I reached out to council to repay the value of the missing goods (I understand that to be less than $100).
“However, the council processes mean this is difficult to co-ordinate, and so I’ve made a meaningful donation to Hobart City Mission.
“I hope the people of Hobart feel I am sincere in my apology and regret about the matter.
“I have represented you for 8 years and it has been an honour. I look forward to continuing my work to represent the community.”
