The streets of Mandurah are in a state of darkness, and it's not just the residents who are concerned. The issue of inoperative streetlights has sparked a heated debate at the City of Mandurah's council meetings, with Cr. Dave Schumacher leading the charge. He's noticed a disturbing trend: more and more streetlights are going out, and it's taking an unacceptably long time to fix them. Schumacher's personal experience on McLarty Road, where the lights were out for weeks, highlights the growing frustration among locals. This isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a safety hazard. The lack of streetlights makes roads dangerous, as Cr. Jenny Green points out, especially on roundabouts where reflective coating is crucial. The situation is further complicated by the fact that most streetlights in Mandurah are owned and maintained by Western Power, with the city only managing around 2000 of them. This division of responsibility adds layers of complexity to the repair process. Western Power's spokesperson reveals some interesting statistics: in May, they received 166 fault reports, which is a mere 1.4% of the total streetlights in the area. Despite this seemingly low number, the average repair time was a modest 6.7 business days. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of delayed repairs for electrical faults and the sourcing of parts for aging infrastructure, which can take up to three to four months. The real question is: how can we ensure that the streets of Mandurah are safe and well-lit? The answer lies in a comprehensive review and assessment of all roundabouts, ensuring they have reflective coatings. This isn't just about fixing the lights; it's about creating a safer environment for all. The City of Mandurah and Western Power must work together to address this issue, and the public must be involved in holding them accountable. The darkness on our streets is a metaphor for the growing concerns in the community. It's time for action, and the residents of Mandurah are demanding a brighter, safer future.
