Dean faced criticism that it was 'irresponsible' to hold two positions in two separate government branches (a member of the legislative council and mayor).
To counter these claims, Ivan Dean said "If successful I will donate the mayoral salary to charities and youth activities.
After becoming mayor, Dean's supporters, including President of the Tasmanian Legislative Council Don Wing, said they believed him capable of holding both positions.
Dean praised ex-mayor Janie Dickenson's achievements but acknowledged there was 'much work to be done'[This quote needs a citation].
[3] As a police officer, Dean led an investigation into the illegal import of foxes into Tasmania which failed to gain any evidence of the repeated introductions and was criticised for the result.