Local Government Minister John Castrilli is hosting a series of community meetings in various regional centres in Western Australia to encourage residents to get involved in the local government reform process.
Castrilli said it was important to ensure communities were involved in local government reform and that they contributed to the future vision of local government and how services could best be delivered to Western Australian communities.
"Local governments exist to serve the community and a community voice is essential to shape the future of local government in this State," he said.
"The meetings will provide the opportunity for residents to find out more about the reform initiatives, what it means for their community and ask questions relevant to their area."
The first meeting was held in Kellerberrin and further events will continue in Australind today, Moora on July 21 and Bridgetown on July 22. A community meeting is planned for Wagin in early August.
The Minister will also be holding meetings with local government elected members and officers in July and August at various locations.
The Minister said that local governments should consult and listen to their communities as they considered the best way to progress the opportunities of reform.
"Local government reform is a valuable opportunity for local governments to plan for their future sustainability and ensure the best possible service delivery to their communities," he said.
"I encourage community members to contact their local government and find out about opportunities to contribute to the reform process, in addition to how and when the community will be consulted."
All local governments are required to provide a reform submission to the Minister by August 31, 2009.
