By XAVIER SMERDON
WYNDHAM Councillors have stood by their decision to approve the controversial landscaping of the gardens out the front of their offices that will cost ratepayers more than $700,000. As revealed in Star earlier this month, the council is spending $737,445 on spruiking up the Civic Centre garden, including forking out more than $18,000 on one seat. Residents have inundated Star with complaints about the large bill, but last week, many of the councillors who voted in favour of the works said they would not change their votes even though they now know the full extent of the costs. Mayor Kim McAliney said she would not have voted against the plans now that the full extent of the costs are known.
“No, my decision would not have been different,” Cr McAliney said.
“This city is committed to improving Wyndham’s gateways, open spaces and streetscapes to enhance the aesthetics and amenity for residents, businesses and visitors and (this work) was part of the 2011/12 capital works budget.” Former Deputy Mayor Bob Fairclough said the works were important for Wyndham’s image. “The council has made a policy of improving the approaches to Wyndham and that includes the council offices. There was a need to landscape the gardens,” Cr Fairclough said. “The council is trying to make Wyndham a place that’s going to be inviting.” Current Deputy Mayor Glenn Goodfellow also told Star he still supported the plans. “I would say ‘yes I support it as well’,” Cr Goodfellow said. “I won’t change my vote on something just because it is unpopular.” The works are expected to be finished in June.
