Published on Monday, 27 July 2020 at 10:00:00 PM

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale Council has adopted its 2020-21 Budget, which has been developed with a 0% increase in the Shire’s rate revenue.

This means that 67% of rate payers will pay the same, or less, as last year, while others will notice an increase because of a revaluation of their property conducted by the State Government.

Shire President Michelle Rich said the 2020/21 Budget represented a balance of continuing to deliver important programs, projects and services for the Shire’s growing community, while also recognising the financial pressures households and businesses are facing in the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Shire, like every other business or organisation, is not immune from the challenges presented by COVID-19,” Cr Rich said.

“Through the adoption of our new Corporate Business Plan last week, as well as our revised Long Term Financial Plan, we have adjusted our priorities in line with the resources available.

“We have also developed a Budget which ensures we support economic and community recovery as we work with our community to grow back stronger from COVID-19, together.”

The Budget’s 0% increase in the Shire’s rate revenue was achieved through operational savings and efficiencies, drawing money from reserves as well as grant funding to assist with the delivery of key projects.

This year there will be a record investment in the Shire’s capital works program, with $10.3 million budgeted for the construction and upgrade of local roads and footpaths and community infrastructure renewal.

Some of the key projects and services the Shire will deliver over the next 12 months includes:

• $4.6 million to maintain our local parks, ovals and gardens
• $3.5 million to maintain roads, footpaths and drainage
• $1.6 million for emergency services and fire prevention
• $500,000 for planning of the Keirnan Park Recreation Precinct
• $500,000 for Trails development and renewal
• $200,000 to establish the Watkins Road Transfer Station

The Shire has also provided further support for households to pay their rates, with the adoption of its Financial Hardship Policy.

“It is not the intention of Council to cause hardship to any ratepayer,” Cr Rich said.

“The objective of this policy is to have a consistent, collaborative and supportive approach to recovery and collection of debts, including rates and charges.”

For more information about the policy, and eligibility, contact the Shire’s Rates Team on 9526 1111.

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