The Shire of Capel has voted in favour of a six per cent increase in rates for it’s 2017/18 budget.
President Murray Scott said the increase was necessary to avoid any long term financial detriment to the community.
“In recognition of the need to ensure that the Shire’s Long Term Financial Plan is implemented and projects are not removed, the Shire of Capel has endorsed a six percent rate increase in adopting this year’s $19.5 million operating budget,” he said.
“In addition, household refuse charges have only been increased $1 this year after no increases in the last two years, saving residents about $65 in the last three years.
“This will be an ongoing saving and, given the substantial increase in the DFES emergency services levy in Dalyellup by the state government, council was conscious of the need to contain costs where possible and pass these savings onto the community.”
Expensive projects for this financial year’s budget include $5.7 million for roads, drainage and dual use paths construction, improvement and maintenance. Road projects will be undertaken on Boundary Road, Boyanup West Road, Elgin Road, Capel Tutunup Road and urban roads in Capel, Stratham, Gelorup and Gwindinup.
Meanwhile, dual use path projects will include Bussell Highway in Dalyellup, Forrest Road, Merritt Street, Nottingham Entrance, Spurr Street and concept designs for stage two of Jamieson Bridge.
A total of $429,000 in grants and donations will benefit community groups while $250,000 will be used to upgrade Boyanup Memorial Park facilities.
Other highlights of the budget include $23,000 in community donations, $28,5000 in minor community grants, $62,000 in community events and $58,000 invested into the Capel Bowls Club.
The 2017/18 budget will include $45,000 allocated for community consultation and concept designs for a skatepark to improve future community facilities in Dalyellup.
Other major expenditure will include:
- $1.244 million for stage three of the Capel Civic Precinct
- $120,000 for new toilets in the Civic Precinct
- $89,000 for trails in Gelorup and Boyanup
- $80,000 for playground replacements throughout the Shire and shade sails
- $30,000 for Boyanup Fettlers Park Master Plan
- $30,000 to complete the Capel entry statement
President Murray Scott said he was confident the budget would meet the expectations of the Shire of Capel’s expanding population.
“I’m very pleased that Council maintained its desire to invest in the community with new, improved and upgraded community facilities across the whole Shire,” he said.
