Tots and tulips are on the agenda as Highlands families with kids in WSC Family Day Care are given a financial reprieve with fees remaining stable and Tulip Time stall prices reducing, as outlined in Wingecarribee Shire Council’s 2023-2034 draft planning document. Residents have a lot to anticipate as WSC reveals proposals that place community and animal well-being at the forefront of consultations.
Families hit by recent financial pressures can breathe a sigh of relief as WSC noted it will not increase any of the 16 family day care fee categories. Only Out of School Hours Care (OOSH) Before and After School Care will be raised by just $1, while Vacation Care options will increase by $2.
This is among the exciting initiatives, including the upcoming new animal shelter and the implementation of the Children’s Services Review, which are included in the proposals.
Business and Property Services Manager Salomon Kloppers expressed enthusiasm for the initiatives. “We are excited to release our plans to the community. Each of these projects will greatly contribute to the overall development and prosperity of our community,”
“Informed by community engagement, our endeavours are strategically designed to meet the specific needs of our Highlands residents,” Salomon said.
Good news for local business operators also, as stalls at the highly successful Tulip Time will be made available to them at reduced prices. Making participation even more accessible, new stall offerings will include the option of booking for one week only, or only on a weekend. To ensure an equitable distribution of benefits and promote a thriving festival, a nominal fee adjustment has been proposed for long weekend stall holders.
A Standard Operating Procedures document to prepare for the operations of the new animal shelter is in the works. While maintenance fees for dogs and cats remain unchanged in the hope owners will be encouraged to claim their pets.
The fees for road closure applications have been adjusted in line with charges by other local councils. It is important to note that these adjustments are necessary to support the continued growth and improvement of our community and to ensure fairness and consistency. Revenue generated from these fee changes will be reinvested into vital community projects.
Recognising the significance of property services, WSC will implement a Property Investment Policy and Strategy to ensure effective management of Crown Land, including Native Title.
The development and implementation of a business model for the Visitor Information Centre will create a hub of knowledge and engagement, enriching learning opportunities available to residents and visitors alike.
