"FULL HOUSE" at council meeting 24th June
At last nights meeting we broke the record (as stated by long standing councillors) for the longest meeting, finishing at 1230am. We had a full house with a majority of community members here regarding the proposed cessation of Council Funded Family Day Care services. I received many emails objecting to the closure of this service, and before last night, I didn't really have a grasp of how important this service was to the community. Prior to the meeting I was not for or against the motion and was concerned about the consequences of our decision. Many of you will note that I seconded Cr Mcarthy's motion to end council funded FDC services and yes right there and then I was supportive of the motion. But as the discussions went on and hearing from the public, and other councillors, my opinion had changed. Now I appreciate the work council officers have put into this report and the time spent with educators over the last 12 months. Ultimately my decision was based on "what is council's role? Its "core" business?" Looking after our young, providing services that protect our most vulnerable is indeed "core" business for council, as is waste management and local roads. There are private providers out there that can make roads, and deal with waste, but at the end of the day this is what you pay rates for! Now it may seem that my integrity has been questioned about how I voted last night, but let me say that last night displayed good and healthy debate and councillors coming into the meeting with an "open" mind.
I was also pleased to see my alternative recommendation to approve a "care takers" residence at the Killara Estate Vineyard. This vineyard has undergone many improvements since it was purchased by the new owner "Leo" 8 years ago and to his credit now has a highly respected product. This planning application is just the next step in his dream to increase the standard of his produce.
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