Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said there was nothing “sinister” regarding yesterday’s Special Meeting of Council where “Consideration of the CEO’s Contract” was the key item.

The American-born Mark Stoermer was appointed in mid-2018 replacing Linda Cardew.

“I can assure there is nothing sinister regarding current proceedings and Mark is on vacation for a couple of weeks, something he is entitled to.

“As this is a confidential matter, I cannot discuss any further. All I can add is that Mark’s contract is up for renewal in September and this was on the table at the special meeting,” said Kerr.

Juanita Warner is the Acting Chief Executive Officer in his absence.

Stoermer joined DSC after a stint as CEO at Nillumbik Shire Council in Melbourne's northern suburbs.

Mr Stoermer, who also ran high profile wealth management firm Fordham Group and was General Manager at global accountancy company Moore Stephens, said the Douglas Shire role was his 'dream job'.

“I had my first holiday at Port Douglas in 1999 and I have been coming back ever since.

“This has been my intention for a long time - it really is a dream job in a dream place,” he told Newsport at the time of his appointment.

Mr Stoermer graduated with a Master of Finance from New York University and BA High Honours from University of California at Berkeley.

He also completed his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Accreditation exams.

Stoermer was unavailable for comment.