A mayor in Melbourne's outer west has temporarily stepped down from his position just a week after being elected, following revelations he provided a character reference for a convicted child sex offender.Wyndham City Council's Preet Singh wrote a character reference for Kashyap Patel, who in 2024 was convicted of grooming and sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl.The County Court judgement for Patel noted Mr Singh, a friend of 13 years, had given a reference indicating the offender was a man of "good character".Today, Mr Singh posted to social media, announcing deputy mayor Jasmine Hill would now be acting mayor "while this matter is considered"."The character reference I provided was given prior to my election For that, I am deeply sorry," Mr Singh said.The situation has prompted the local government minister to appoint a monitor to "restore stability in the leadership and ensure good governance"."I am deeply concerned by the ongoing instability in leadership at Wyndham City Council," Nick Staikos said."The ratepayers and residents deserve a council that is entirely focused on them."Mr Singh's announcement came as members of the local community prepared to protest outside council chambers, calling for him to resign."I respect the right of community members to express their views, including through peaceful protest," Mr Singh said."I am reaching out to offer to meet with those leading the demonstration, to listen and convey my sincere sympathies directly."This afternoon, Wyndham City councillors released a joint statement also demanding on Mr Singh's resignation."On Monday we became aware that Cr Singh had provided a character reference for a convicted child sex offender