TRACEY Roberts says as a full-time Mayor who listens to the people and one who is fiercely protective of the interests of the local community she deserves to be re-elected.
Cr Roberts said as non-politically aligned Mayor for the City of Wanneroo she maintained effective relationships with state and federal governments and ensured the voice of the community was heard.
“I am proud to be a member of the WA Local Government Association and the Australian Local Government Association which has given me the opportunity to showcase the City of Wanneroo statewide and federally,’’ she said.
“I have used this to the city’s advantage to raise issues that we face within our community.’’
During this local government campaign the issues raised by ratepayers and residents included local jobs, improved infrastructure – roads and rail, rates, sporting facilities and environmental sustainability and waste services.
But the main issue ratepayers and residents had raised with her was aquatic facilities in the North Coast ward.
Cr Roberts, who has been the Mayor for eight years, said she put the recommendation to the council last year, which was seconded by Cr Nat Sangalli, for the city to investigate opportunities for the early delivery of a swimming pool.
“As a result the regional northern coastal suburbs swimming pool advocacy for a 50m heated outside Olympic swimming pool and toddler pool began.
“The city received a petition of almost 7000 signatures from our local schools and local residents, supporting the swimming pool and a $5 million commitment of federal government funding was received towards this much needed delivery of the project.
“Discussions in relation to the location of the pool are progressing well with land owners and the city is close to announcing a location for the pool.’’
She said she was proud the City of Wanneroo had during her time as Mayor attracted major infrastructure investment that was the catalyst for current businesses to grow and new businesses to establish.
“I am aware that this is tough economic times for businesses and the city has resourced an effective economic development team that works in close partnership with the Wanneroo Business Association, to support our business community and create local jobs.
“The economic development team assists businesses through the approval process at a local and state level if required and a number of activation programs are available to support home based business and small businesses.
“The city has always maintained a sensible approach to the setting of rates, fees and charges, specifically designed not to undermine businesses.
“This is in addition to a huge variety of programs to support innovation in small business, industry diversification, workforce development, investment attraction and working with our neighbouring councils to focus on support for regional economic development.
“The challenge in reducing fees in one area, puts more stress and pressure on other areas, for example, reducing rates for businesses may impact negatively on residential rates, therefore the city’s approach has been to support businesses to grow and develop.’’
