Redland City Council Mayor, Karen Williams, who was today charged with high-range drink driving, says she will seek a period of unpaid leave from council until the matter is legally finalised.
In a statement released this evening, Ms Williams said she will undertake personal leave to respond to the Queensland Police charge and to receive counselling.
“I again apologise for my actions and the toll they have taken on my community,” she said.
“I made a serious personal error of judgement, for which I am deeply sorry.
“While not excusing my actions in anyway (sic), the death threats and serious abuse I have received this past week have also taken a heavy toll on my family and staff.
“Others have also reached out to offer words of comfort during this time and I sincerely thank them for their kindness.”
Ms Williams was charged by Queensland Police today following the return of an alleged blood alcohol reading of 0.177% – more than three times the level limit.
A petition calling for the Mayor’s resignation has so far received more than 5,400 signatures since being launched on Monday. The petition was initiated by prominent Queensland road safety advocate, Judy Lindsay.
Tragically, a drunk driver claimed the life of Judy’s 20-year-old daughter, Hayley, in 2009.
Ms Lindsay had been a participant in a Zoom call with other families of victims of drunk drivers that was hosted by the Mayor in the hours leading up to the crash.
The E-petition is being sponsored by Member for Capalaba, Don Brown.
“As her local MP, I am proud to sponsor Judy’s petition calling for Karen Williams to be removed from her position as Redland City Mayor,” Mr Brown said earlier this week.
She will face Cleveland Magistrates Court on 1 August.
