AUGUSTA-Margaret River Shire councillors were reportedly appalled by the vandalism attack on a Margaret River veterinary hospital on October 10.
The graffiti act was believed to be a response to a letter published in the local newspaper about Shire plans to convert the Margaret River squash courts into a community art gallery.
Shire president and councillor Mike Smart spoke on behalf of the council.
"Individuals are entitled to express their views without being subject to such senseless acts," he said.
The squash court conversion is part of a major redevelopment plan to transform the Margaret River Cultural Centre and squash courts into a Cultural and Business Events centre.
Cr Smart said Shire executive officer Gary Evershed had worked diligently to implement the idea since the council decision in August last year authorised him to apply for grant funding from the state government.
While there appears to be a mixed reaction from the public, the plans are still moving forward, but Cr Smart said councillors would eventually be in a position to seek further community input and make an informed decision with regards to future direction.
"At this stage, costings and a business case have not been finalised," Cr Smart said.
"When they are, the CEO will hold an open councillor briefing, before seeking council endorsement to make applications to both state and federal governments for funding.
"There are additional considerations, with uncertainty about who will fund the necessary upgrades to the Main Street and the construction of John Archibald Drive, now that the Perimeter Road funding and construction appear imminent.
"Once councillors have greater clarity on these issues they will be in a position to seek further community input."
Cr Smart said some appealing conceptual drawings had just been completed.
Read an opinion letter about the squash courts here.