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A council spokesperson said Mr Paull has agreed to step aside and take personal leave while an investigation is undertaken by police into an alleged incident that occurred at the Moss Vale Hotel on Tuesday March 9.

"After speaking with the Mayor, Barry Paull has agreed to take personal leave until the March 22, or until further decision of council, whichever occurs first," they said.

"Mr John Burgess, a former general manager of Auburn Council and current Wingecarribee Shire manager of organisational development, was appointed as the alternate acting general manager for this period."

No charges have been laid against Mr Paull.

Mr Burgess has extensive local government experience having worked at Wingecarribee Shire Council for the past five years and as the former general manager of Auburn City Council between 2005 and 2013.

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