Shire of Murray adopts budget with 2 per cent rates increase

THE Shire of Murray has adopted its 2018-19 budget with an overall rates increase of 2 per cent.

Shire President David Bolt said the focus had been balancing the need for revenue for funding local government services with a desire to limit the rates increase to affordable levels.

Cr Bolt said the council would continue to invest in infrastructure projects, including an increase in the marketing and branding of the region as a significant tourist destination.

Related initiatives included activation of the Pinjarra Town Centre through the $1 million Murray River Square and Foreshore Development and the $4.5 million Dwellingup National Trails Centre.

The asset renewal program will continue with a $1.7 million commitment to roads, buildings, parks, drainage, kerbing and footpath development and a $300,000 commitment to build a 3.1km shared path along Pinjarra Road from Sutton Street to Murray Bend.

Heritage and environmental projects include the $400,000 St John’s Church restoration, $500,000 Exchange Hotel conservation works and a $120,000 allocation for Murray River restoration efforts.

Also on the to-do list are the youth portfolio, health and safety programs and amenity development projects including airconditioning for North Dandalup Hall, preparation of a new lawn area at Pinjarra Cemetery, play equipment and improvements to North Pinjarra Recreation Precinct.

The council will continue to support and invest in the Nambeelup Business Park and Peel Food Zone and the Mandurah Murray Economic Development Strategy.