Councils cool on bylaws plan
A State Government push for more uniform council bylaws risks stifling diversity, innovation and the right for local government to create laws for their community, councils say.
Councils signalled yesterday they would defend their right to make laws, suggesting the Government may face an uphill battle in its bid to promote consistency. But some councils conceded there was scope for uniformity in some areas, including planning regulations and procedures.
Local Government Minister Tony Simpson will tell councils at today's WA Local Government Association annual meeting they need to work together for more uniform bylaws, particularly around planning.
Fremantle mayor Brad Pettitt said it was important not to stifle innovation, such as banning smoking in alfresco areas and a proposed plastic bag ban.
