The biggest issues residents are concerned about ahead of WA’s local government elections have been revealed … and they might not surprise you.
Data from community problem-solving app Snap Send Solve has revealed the most reported community issues across the State.
Coming in at number one was yep, you guessed it — rubbish and bins, including dumped rubbish, with 8029 reports across WA.
Only last month, the City of Stirling vowed to clean up all dumped rubbish in Balga, Mirrabooka, Nollamara and Westminister after a push from councillor Michael Dudek.
At number two were those unsightly abandoned trolleys, with 7885 reports. Perth loves a big suburban shopping centre, but boy are we bad at returning our trolleys.
In May this year, City of Stirling councillor Joe Ferrante called for $500 fines for discarded trolleys chargeable to the relevant brand of supermarket owner.
At number three is parking and cars, including illegal parking and abandoned vehicles with 7384 reports.
Reports of Perth drivers parking illegally in disability bays and across footpaths has more than doubled since last year, with parking violations in Perth’s southeast spiking by a huge 161 per cent.
At number four, a classic — graffiti and vandalism with 5361 reports.
And rounding off the list is trees, including fallen trees and overgrown vegetation.
The Town of Bassendean is looking at incentives for people to keep trees, including paying them, in a push from deputy mayor Renee McLennan.
The average turnout to council elections is about 30 per cent but Local Government Minister David Michael wants to lift it to make them “truly democratic” and ensure successful candidates are more representative of their communities.
The State Government and WA Local Government Association held a community engagement campaign to get more people to vote.
“Local governments play an important role in the lives of all residents and the wellbeing of businesses in WA, with councillors constantly making decisions on how ratepayers’ money should be spent, and what community projects are given the green light,” Mr Michael said.
“Exercising your right to vote is crucial in determining who these decision-makers will be and ensuring they are diligent representatives who make the right choices for you, and your community.”
People can vote in-person on October 21. The vote count will start at 6pm that day and results are expected that night.