Community reaps rewards in grant funding
Residents across the Highlands are set to reap the benefits of over $30 million in grant funding secured by Wingecarribee Shire Council since 1 July 2022.
A report presented to Council in February revealed that 21 projects had successfully secured $6.5 million in Commonwealth and State grant funding in the six months ending 31 December 2022. An additional report at the February Council Meeting detailed a further two major grants totalling $26.4 million had also been secured at the start of 2023.
$25 million has been obtained from the NSW Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund for the upgrade of the Moss Vale Sewage Treatment Plant and $1.4 million from the Fixing Local Roads Program for the rehabilitation of Sallys Corner Road in Exeter.
“This is a fabulous result for our community, our ratepayers and residents,” said Council’s Administrator Viv May PSM.
“It shows that Council is now working hard to secure much need funds for essential projects.”
Notable grant funding secured for the six months ending 31 December 2022 include:
- $2.89 million for the replacement of the Ferguson Crescent Bridge
- $1 million for the David Wood Inclusive Adventure Playground
- $418,726 from the Fixing Local Roads Pothole Repair Fund
- $270,400 towards the Southern Highlands Innovation Park Master Plan (SHIP)
Council’s General Manager Lisa Miscamble explained that operating and capital grants account for approximately 20 per cent of Council’s annual Operating and Capital Revenue.
“I thank our staff for preparing these applications and delivering for our community. Together these funds will help Council delivery a broad range of projects which support our community strategic plan.”, she said.
“These grant monies are testimony in the State and Federal Government’s confidence in Council’s ability to deliver major capital and community improvement projects,” the Administrator added.
“Council thanks both of our State and Federal Members for their continued support and advocacy of our Shire.”