Shire revenue takes a $1m hit

The Shire of Halls Creek is expecting to take a hit on its fees and charges revenue for its upcoming budget but will put off voting its annual financial plan through until next month.

Early estimates by the local government anticipate fees and charges could be down by $1 million — it usually collects about $1.3 million — but this would be offset by payroll changes.

Some of the changes to staffing as part of the budget include keeping the trainee pool at five positions instead of the full 10 usually recruited by the Shire.

Despite the shifting around of some other roles within the local government, the Shire has still managed to expand its staff by 30 positions since the start of last year.

Rates bills will remain the same for most ratepayers except for where there have been changes to land valuations for unimproved value (UV) rated properties.

Shire president Malcolm Edwards said the budget had been put off until August so the local government had a better idea of what its financial situation would be.

“It gives people coming out of the (COVID-19) pandemic another month before they need to come up with money for rates,” he said.

Mr Edwards said there would be a hardship policy for those struggling to pay rates.

Mr Edwards said there were some recent positives with 10 Shire staff restarting work with Main Roads WA on Duncan and Gordon Downs roads.

“It’s a pity we can’t get more (people on the job) but that’s all we require at this stage,” he said.

Halls Creek chief executive Noel Mason said the Shire was financially very sound.

“We have reserve funds from which to drive all major project costs next year, we have cash flow via Main Roads WA and potentially flood damage moneys to invest in roadworks, and as per the Government’s suggestion will be able to hold rates, fees and charges at zero increases in 2020-21,” he said.

“It appears pointless to rush to get rate notices out to the public when it can be more carefully planned around COVID impacts and assistance packages.”