Northam councillors commended on amalgamation review

3/3/95

Local Government Minister Paul Omodei has commended the Northam Town and Shire Councils on their efforts to ensure local residents receive maximum return on ratepayer dollars.

Mr Omodei said the two councils had decided to commission an independent review of the potential benefits and/or disadvantages of amalgamation.

The information gained from the review would allow the councils and residents to make an informed decision on whether to pursue changes to the current structure.

Mr Omodei said he had agreed to provide funds towards the cost of commissioning an independent consultant to conduct the review.  The two councils would also make a contribution.

"The State Government's agenda for local government is efficiency, effectiveness and accountability, and the actions of the Northam councils show they are pursuing a similar agenda on behalf of their residents," the Minister said.

"Regardless of whether amalgamation is the outcome, the councils and their electors will gain a clear picture of whether they are operating at maximum potential."

Mr Omodei said councils across the State were under increasing pressure to provide more and more services without increasing costs to ratepayers.

"The only way this can be achieved is to strive constantly for greater efficiency and cost savings," he said.

"I have already commenced a wide-ranging review of the structure of local government, to examine issues such as opportunities for resource sharing, for closer co-operation between councils and ways to enhance efficient and effective delivery of services.

"The decision by the Northam councils shows they are at the forefront in seeking to ensure they maximise efficiency and provide an optimum service for residents."

Media contact: Amanda O'Brien on (09) 222 9595 or pager 480 5968