ALGA deputy and Shire of Morawa President Karen Chappel has been re-elected as President of WALGA.

Cr Chappel said she was immensely proud of her achievements during her last term at the helm of the local government peak, which she said has seen the association act as a strong voice  for both the sector an the community it represents.

“I am especially proud of the engagement with State and Federal Governments on sector budget priorities,” she said in a statement.

“I am confident that through a combination of targeted advocacy and our relationship with Government, sector priorities will be recognised, and budget requests met.”

Cr Chappel and  deputy, Town of Claremont Councillor Paul Kelly, were elected at the State Council meeting earlier this month.

WALGA represents 139 local governments. Its 2023 Policy Priorities document lists its priorities as implementation of the new Local Government Act and a review of planning fees and charges to enable cost recovery by councils.

Among other priorities, WALGA wants to see improved access to primary health services in regional areas and support for local governments to enhance Aboriginal engagement.

Its also calling for telecommunications gaps in regional areas to be addressed, and is planning to review the WALGA Climate Change Policy Statement and create a state urban forest strategy.

Cr Chappel said she is looking forward to working with State Council on developing policy priorities in the lead up to State and Federal elections in 2025.