City of Mandurah ratepayers set for 2% increase

THE City of Mandurah has prepared its draft budget for 2018-19.

A report from chief executive Mark Newman is expected to be considered Tuesday night and recommends a 2 per cent increase in rates.

The budget has been framed to take into account economic development and jobs growth, the management and protection of the environment, and investment in technology.

In regard to economic development, the report noted the Peel Region does not have an economic hub despite showing higher-than-average population growth over the past several years.

“In Mandurah, this has resulted in a bias towards the retail and construction sectors as major employers,” the report said.

“Although employment creation occurs largely through Federal and State government policies, the City has a role to play in advocacy, employment attraction and activation of business areas.”

The report said Council continues to face challenges in providing services and infrastructure to a growing community.

“Although it is recognised that sections of the community are experiencing financial stress, it is important that the City places an emphasis on ensuring that it will be able to deliver its services and provide community infrastructure into the future,” the report said. “This will not be achievable if revenues are insufficient for the task.

“Rates and associated revenues provide approximately 70 per cent of the City’s operating revenues and enable provision of a diverse range of services and infrastructure.”

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