The Shire of Northam has denied a request from the Northam Chamber of Commerce to waive fees associated with the Avon Valley Business Excellence Awards.
The annual event to be held on October 12 recognises high achieving individuals and businesses throughout the Shire of Northam.
The Northam Chamber of Commerce proposed that the fee waiver be a form of sponsorship from the Shire but the recommendation from Shire staff was to refuse the request.
The value proposed to be waived was $440 for the application fee, the facility hire and additional staff.
As part of the annual budget the Shire provides $127,000 to the North Chamber of Commerce for promotion and sponsors the awards night.
Councillor Rob Tinetti, who voted for the motion explained to fellow councillors that there is an entry fee involved in the event.
He said he believed the Chamber has sufficient funds to pay the fees.
Councillor Steven Pollard said as an advocate for business the Chamber of Commerce shouldn’t go around asking to waive fees.
“Businesses pay upfront. That’s how it works,” he said.
Councillor Michael Ryan said he was against the motion as the Chamber provides as important community service.
“They are a conduit of the Shire,” he said.
“This is a community event.
“$440 is not a lot and it’s a good cause that the Shire should support.”
The motion was carried nine votes to one.
