Capel council in strong position

Capel Shire Council has started the new year in a position of great strength and prosperity, according to chief executive officer Paul Sheedy.

The council began the year with a surplus of more than half a million dollars compared to the projected surplus of almost $152,000.

Mr Sheedy said the position would benefit the community through new projects, upgraded public open spaces and the maintenance of public buildings.

The biggest investment of money has been allocated to the additional costs of the $1.2 million East Dalyellup Sports Pavilion, which is set to open in the near future, he said.

“We will be spending $44,000 on two sets of shade sails in Dalyellup, with one at Daablone Vista and one at Murtin Park,” Mr Sheedy said.

“The Capel Country Club also requires some upgrades to their kitchen floor, air-conditioning units and main power board, so we will be spending about $16,000 there.

“Some of the left over money will also be allocated to the council’s building infrastructure reserve funds for future expansions.”

The council’s annual report for 2015-16 was also endorsed at the December meeting outlining achievements so far, including the completion of stages one and two of the Capel Civic Precinct and completion of the council’s administration building and chambers.

Mr Sheedy said he was proud to see the initiation of a major review of Town Planning Scheme No. 7, which would be modernised with the intention to make it easier for developers to seek approval from the council.

He said the council had also remained community-focused by supporting its Community Grants program of which more than $80,000 was provided to community organisations and groups in the form of donations and funding.

The public is encouraged to have their say about the annual report which will be made available from Tuesday and are invited to attend the Annual Electors Meeting on Wednesday, January 25, at 7pm at the council chambers.

Mr Sheedy encouraged people to write to council before the meeting with any questions they may have.