CITY of Vincent councillors have passed the latest budget with what is said to be the second lowest minimum rate in the Perth metropolitan area.
The Council passed the 2017/18 budget on July 25. The 2.7 per cent rates increase for landowners will result in a minimum bill of $1100 which will bring in almost $33 million for the City.
Employee costs will go up 3.2 per cent to $25.9 million with the addition of four full time positions.
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Councillors said the budget was something to be proud of.
Mayor Emma Cole said she was happy with what was achieved.
“We struck that balance between being financially responsible despite a small rate increase we will continue to be one of the lowest rating councils in the Perth metro area,” she said.
She said there was an increase to only 164 fees and charges out of more than 400.
“We are still on our transparency and reform journey and a lot of the other issues that might not seem exciting but important to the future of Vincent,” she said.
“We have a sharp eye on our asset management, which is something that hasn’t been a strength of Vincent in the past and it’s a money hungry aspect of the work that we do.
“I think this council has had issues in the past that have been brought out and we’re tackling head on.”
Councillor Joshua Topelberg applauded the minimal rate increase.
“We’re talking $21 per week with our minimum rate,” he said.
Rate rises for some other Perth councils:
Perth: 1.5 per cent
Stirling: 1.75 per cent
Belmont, Cockburn: 1.75 per cent
Fremantle, Mandurah: 1.9 per cent
Armadale, Melville: 2 per cent
Bassendean: 2.5 per cent
Bayswater: 4.9 per cent