Pub owner says sign removal is a “political hit job”
A Hawthorn pub owner is fighting back after being ordered to remove a billboard criticising local MP Monique Ryan, claiming the council is carrying out a "political hit job".
Last month, Joe Rumoro, owner of the Tower Hotel, allowed the Liberal Party to install a 10-metre billboard on his Burwood Road pub stating "Monique Ryan votes: 77% with Greens".
The sign quickly sparked protests from teal supporters and led Boroondara Council to demand its removal, saying it violates planning permits.
"First it was pinching Pete, now they're trying to take my sign too," Rumoro told the Herald Sun, referring to an incident where Ryan's husband was filmed removing a Liberal Party sign from a front yard.
Rumoro claims the council is "run by the Teals" and points to Mayor Sophie Torney's background as a former teal candidate and Councillor Rob Baillieu's criticism of the Liberal candidate.
"I've had political signs up on the pub before, no one said a thing," Rumoro said.
The pub owner has hired lawyers and argues that Ryan's decisions directly affect his business through policies on alcohol taxes and other regulations.
“Among other things, the Member for Kooyong makes decisions relating to excise rates payable on alcoholic beverages, taxes paid by the operator of the Tower Hotel, federal environmental approvals for the use of the land, and a range other matters that affect the premises and the business that operates there,” he wrote.
He also accused the council of being run by the Teals. The council denies any political motivation.
"Councillors are not involved in the review of political signage in any way. The advertising is simply not compliant with rules," a City of Boroondara spokesman said.
Ryan's team declined to comment on the dispute.
Jonathan Jackson, 23rd April 2025
