Council supports shire split

Mr Zelones recently met with the Local Government Advisory Board (LGAB) and reaffirmed the council’s support to split the northern section with the City of Armadale and the southern section with the Shire of Murray,

‘We are keen to have a decision made on the Armadale, Serpentine Jarrahdale and Shire of Murray boundary adjustment as soon as possible, so that we can start implementing the transition process and move to normal governance as quickly as possible,’ he said.

Mr Zelones was quick to dispel any notion that community groups in the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale were going to be disbanded, rates were suddenly going to increase or jobs would be lost, if the City claims the northern section of the Shire.

‘We want to go forward with a message of hope and encouragement and ensure the best possible outcome for residents.’

It is expected that 14 councillors will represent the new council, with two councillors representing each of the seven wards. Two wards would likely cover the boundary change area.

Staff and officers from the Serpentine Jarrahdale Council also met with the LGAB as part of the consultation process.

Shire president Keith Ellis said one of the board’s recommendations was for Serpentine Jarrahdale to join the established Local Implementation Committee (established for local governments transitioning to amalgamation) alongside the City of Armadale and the Shire of Murray, but the Shire objected to this.

‘Given that we have lodged our proposal to change the Shire’s boundaries and remain our own entity, it seems the board feels we should have contingency plans in place for every possible scenario,’ he said.

The public have until 4pm on March 13 to have their say.

The Board is considering 34 proposals for change consisting of 21 proposals by local governments, 12 by the Minister for Local Government and one by an electors group.