Investing in Roads, Services and Sustainability

Published on 17 April 2025

Council Opens Draft Plans for Feedback 

Wingecarribee Shire Council has released its Draft Delivery Program 2025-2029, Resourcing Strategy 2025-2035, and 2025/26 Operational Plan and Budget for public feedback - marking a milestone in its ongoing commitment to long-term financial sustainability and community driven service delivery.  

The draft documents outline how Council will deliver essential services and infrastructure while addressing the financial challenges facing local government across NSW.  

“After a comprehensive financial review, we’ve made the call to hold the line on rates - there is no increase above the NSW Government’s rate peg this year,” said Mayor Jesse Fitzpatrick. “We’ve trimmed external costs, refocused investment on core priorities like roads and Development Assessment and made sure every dollar is working harder for our community. These draft Plans reflect the tough but necessary decisions needed to build a stronger, more sustainable future.” 

The rate peg, set annually by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), places a cap on how much Councils can increase general rates. For 2025–2026, Wingecarribee’s rates will remain within this cap.  

Key highlights of the draft Plan include:  

• Increased spending on roads  
• Improved Development Application services, with a plan to reallocate savings back into infrastructure  
• Major investment in the Moss Vale and Bowral Sewage Treatment Plants  
• Celebrating the community opening of the new Animal Shelter in September  

The draft Plans also prioritise family wellbeing and community liveability, with increased support for inclusive events, youth development, upgraded recreation facilities, and local programs such as learn-to-swim classes, walkability initiatives, and enhancements to aquatics, open spaces, and libraries. These investments aim to ensure the Shire remains a welcoming, connected, and healthy place for all residents.  

The documents are now on public exhibition via the Participate Wingecarribee website and are also available at Council’s Customer Service Counter, Civic Centre, 68 Elizabeth Street, Moss Vale and Councils Libraries.  

Community feedback is open until 20 May 2025:  

Draft Resourcing Strategy and Delivery Program, Operational Plan and Budget