West Perth and Perth East have signed a new four-year agreement to share fire services.
The new deal follows a five-month interim period and a three-year formal agreement.
Perth East CAO Glenn Schwendinger says it maintains fiscal responsibility while providing a superior level of fire prevention, protection, and education.
West Perth contracts the fire chief, fire prevention officer and fire administration services from Perth East.
Perth East Mayor Bob McMillan says it focuses on efficiency and excellence, with top notch fire protection, and enhanced education.
West Perth Mayor Walter McKenzie shared West Perth Council’s sentiments.
“The shared services agreement with Perth East is a good financial arrangement for both West Perth and Perth East and, through the sharing of services, the Fire Administration is efficiently deployed for both municipalities," he says. "It allows West Perth to not only fulfill its legislative responsibilities under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, but also deliver fire prevention and public education excellence to its community.”
The Municipality of West Perth Council approved the new agreement at their August 21 regular meeting, followed by Perth East Council’s endorsement on September 5.
“This agreement has been successful thanks to the support of the Councils of West Perth and Perth East. Staff from both departments have been instrumental in our success over the past 3.5 years... a total team effort. It has been a pleasure working with the members of the WPFD and I look forward to the next four years,” stated Perth East and West Perth Fire Chief Bill Hunter.
The new agreement will be in effect from January 1, 2018, until December 31, 2021.