Council reduces fee increases for Senior Cits Centre

Central Coast Council has reduced its proposed fee increases for use of the Ettalong Senior Citizens' Centre as a result of community pressure.

As a result of 17 objections from community members, Council determined to reduce its proposed hall hire fee for permanent hirers at Ettalong.

The community/not for profit rate will be set at $20 per hour instead of the proposed $24 and the business/private hire rate set at $25 per hour instead of the proposed $30.

A proposed minimum three hour fee for casual hire of $83 for community groups and $108 for private hire was removed.

Council also announced that a full review of the role and function of the centre will be undertaken during the 2018-19 financial year.

A staff report to the June 25 Council meeting responded to the submissions, referring to themselves as "Council".

"Council acknowledges the vital work not-for profit groups undertake in the community and the concerns raised regarding unfair charges to community groups.

"Council is committed to meeting the current and emerging needs of community groups seeking to occupy and use Council buildings for community purposes.

"Community forums will be organised seeking input on the management of community facilities moving forward.

"The forum will be followed up with a questionnaire.

"Council will use this information to inform the drafting of a new Community Leasing Policy to ensure that there is an equitable and consistent approach in providing tenure arrangements to community groups for sport, recreation, community service and educational activities.

"With the implementation of this policy approach, Council hopes to apply a more consistent framework around lease fees for community groups in future.

"The public will have the opportunity to voice their concerns at the forums, provide quantifiable data in the questionnaire and comment on the draft Community Leasing Policy prior to seeking Councils approval.

"Please note that all fees and charges are presented to Council for review and approval prior to adoption on an annual basis."

SOURCE:

Agenda item 2.1, 25 Jun 2018

Central Coast Council ordinary meeting