Esperance ratepayers are set for a 9.5 per cent rate hike after the Shire of Esperance launched its 2012-13 draft budget this week.

President Mal Heasman said the budget would focus on increased spending on community assets, despite a proposed reduction in State Government Financial Assistance Grants.

He said the town’s ageing infrastructure required a significant financial allocation in the coming 12 months to ensure it continued to meet the requirements of the community.

“Councillors spent the day discussing the challenges we face in regard to the maintenance of service levels, and the importance of long term community asset management,” Cr Heasman said.

He said shire rates would increase on both gross rental value properties and unimproved value properties by 9.5 per cent in the coming financial year.

“A property on current minimum rates of $700 will also see an increase of $95 per year,” Cr Heasman said.