Shire of Waroona stops “free” verge mowing for selected ratepayers amid concerns about cost sustainability

A Peel council has voted to stop mowing the verges of selected properties for “free” amid concerns about costs to ratepayers. The Shire of Waroona put an end to the “free” service on December 1 after councillors voted to cease the practice at last month’s meeting. But the decision will go out for public consultation before it is made permanent. Shire president Mike Walmsley highlighted the reasons behind the council’s decision to make the move. “It isn’t really equitable and it is an old practice that has been going on year after year,” he said. “There are still measures in the place if people want to have the service provided.” In their report to council, Shire officers said continuing the “free” service would cost the council ‘considerable levels of wage and plant operating costs’. The move will bring the council in line with other local governments across the State and result in ratepayers being required to pay for the service. Letters were sent out to impacted landowners last month informing them of the incoming changes. The policy is expected to come back to the council early in the New Year for final adoption. Owners of properties adjoining verges are responsible for the upkeep of all vegetation which is not trees. Council funds freed up under the changes will instead be spent on maintenance of Railside Park, which will officially open this week.