TAMAVUA ratepayers representative Fred Caine expressed disappointment at the absence of Suva City Council chief executive and Town Clerk Ratu Ilitomasi Verenakadavu from a meeting on Thursday night to discuss the council's controversial green waste collection policy.
Thursday night's meeting was the first public forum called to discuss the policy.
Mr Caine said it was an act of disrespect by the town clerk to the ratepayers.
"I am happy that such a meeting took place but it is shocking to know that the CEO, who basically runs the city, was not among us," he said.
"It is a shame and it shows that he has no respect for what concerns the ratepayers.
"They talk so much about cleaning Suva city from inside their office but what happened now when we are willing to talk to him in person?"
However, the Lord Mayor, elected councillors and some senior members of council management were present at the meeting.
Mr Caine said he hoped the next meeting would be held in the council chambers.
Thursday night's meeting was held at Salala Park which is on Salala Road, off Salato Street at Namadi Heights.
A marquee was set up for the meeting and the SCC staff provided tea and biscuits for refreshment.
