The petition was distributed by the newly formed SJ for Peel committee and the preamble calls for the shire to remain part of the Peel region as they believe that entity best reflects their interests and identity.
Mr Templeman said he strongly supported the intent of the petition.
‘A 3100-signature petition is very significant and in my view reflects the depth of concern locally about the proposal to amalgamate SJ with Armadale City Council.’
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READ NOWThe petition was presented at the August 26 council meeting and given to Mr Templeman last week.
Chief executive Richard Gorbunow said the shire was grateful to the passionate community members who had given their time for this important cause.
‘Council has recently reiterated their opposition to the proposed amalgamation with the City of Armadale, and it is great to have community support on such an important matter,’ he said.
A consultant’s report, co-funded by the shire and the City, is expected to be presented to councils later this month.
Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones said the City had not yet provided a proposal to the Local Government Advisory Board regarding amalgamating with Serpentine Jarrahdale but would do so by the October 4 deadline. ‘The submission is still being compiled and will be put forward for council endorsement in September,’ he said.
Local Government Minister Tony Simpson and Premier Colin Barnett met the shire council on Thursday to hear their concerns and answer questions.
Mr Barnett also presented a $110,000 Lotterywest cheque for the skate park.
Several weeks ago, Mr Simpson also met with the chairman of the Peel-Harvey Catchment Council to discuss their hopes of retaining the status quo, given the perceived community of interest with the Peel region, rather than Armadale.
Mr Simpson said that while there was a long way to go, it was heartening to hear the community getting involved in the debate.