In February, the Minister announced a package of wide-ranging local government reform strategies aimed at achieving greater capacity for local governments to better plan, manage and deliver services, focusing on social, environmental and economic sustainability.

The principal strategies in the package encourage local governments to: take steps to voluntarily amalgamate and form larger local governments; reduce the total number of elected members to between six and nine; and form appropriate regional groupings of councils to assist with the efficient delivery of services.

Chief Executive Officer Dr Shayne Silcox said the City currently employed more than 800 full-time, part-time and casual staff, and provided more than 200 products and services. “These include building new infrastructure, maintaining parks/reserves and playgrounds, managing local bushland, libraries, waste management, art galleries, boating facilities, public health and crime prevention programs, and providing activities, information and events for all ages,” he said.

“The City of Melville is already involved in resource sharing and regional partnerships, including the South West Group, Southern Metropolitan Regional Council, the Cities of Fremantle and Cockburn, and the Town of East Fremantle. Its vision is to: create a safe, attractive community, considering the consequences of its actions for future generations; ensure natural and built facilities are, where practicable, accessible to everyone; generate a sense of place, belonging and community spirit; and ensure all voices are heard,” he said.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said he encouraged everyone to have their say regarding reform strategies. “We are interested in hearing from the community, as they will naturally be impacted by any future changes. The City is endeavouring to provide feedback that not only reflects the community’s view, but also contributes to the best long term outcome for all residents now and in the future,” he said.

The deadline for submissions is 4.00pm on Friday, 3 July 2009. Residents can visit www.melvillecity.com.au/consultations to make their submission online. Alternatively, comment forms are available from the Civic Centre, City of Melville Libraries, Recreation Centres, and Community Centres. They can be posted, clearly marked: Submission: Local Government Reform, Chief Executive Officer, Locked Bag 1, BOORAGOON WA 6954; or faxed to (08) 9364 0285 marked to the attention of the Chief Executive Officer.