Perth Voice Interactive

BAYSWATER mayor Sylvan Albert says council mergers will cost ratepayers at least $1.5 million—and possibly more—with the Barnett government telling councils this week it will not pay the entire cost of its program.

The WA government has budgeted just $15m over three years to pay for mergers and expects councils to take out low-interest loans to make up a $45m shortfall.

Cr Albert—the Liberals’ candidate for Maylands at the last state election—says he is disappointed the Barnett government has “not lived up to our expectations”.

“Given that reform is a state government initiative, council expected a greater financial commitment from state government and it is fair to say the level of funding provided by the WA government does not live up to our expectations and that is disappointing.

“With respect to the costs associated with reform until we have a firm decision from local government minister Tony Simpson it is difficult to put a figure on the cost of reform. However, as a minimum initial transition costs in the order of $1.5m are envisaged.

“Only when we have that decision and have liaised with all of our reform partners will we be able to work up an accurate cost.

“Whether we will need to take advantage of the loan provisions is something we will have to decide when the costs become clear.”

Meanwhile, Stirling mayor Giovanni Italiano is refusing to tell his ratepayers what he thinks about mergers: “The mayor will not provide further comment on any aspect of local government reform until the new boundaries of Stirling have been determined by the minister, probably the end of July,” says council media adviser Joanne Hocking.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK