A new ticketing system for users worth $10,690 has been installed at the Recreational Lake in Bordertown, boasting a “very unique” feature.
The new feature is you don’t have to pay if you don’t want to.
And the Tatiara District Council says they have put up a new signage at the Recreational Lake that says the amount of $10 charged for the use of the facility was a rate, not a donation.
Cr Miles Hannemann was not happy with the new ticketing system and how it has been implemented and asked the council to explain at its recent meeting.
In a question on notice, Cr Hannemann asked:
“What is going to be our attitude to the new ticketing system at the Rec Lake? Having spoken to staff, I am nervous that it is going to be flexible, that is, you don’t have to pay if you don’t want to.
The reason being is that they don’t want to deter people from staying there and want them to be encouraged to spend money in Bordertown. So are we going to be adopting the practice that if you don’t pay, you don’t stay. No excuses.”
In response to the question, director of corporate and community services Kingsley Green provided the revenue statistics over the last four years – $13,505.
Mr Green said the cost to purchase the machine was $10,690, the return on investment (ROI) would be approximately 3.10 years, considering regular inspections to check compliance, this would increase the ROI to 3.21 years.
“The fee was benchmarked against 26 RV sites and caravan parks.
“Fees range from $5 – $22, with those charging $20 range or more for caravan parks or with full shower and toilet amenities.
“Considering the Recreation Lake site amenities, $10 appears appropriate. It is clear in the new signage that the amount of $10 is a rate, not a donation,” he said.
Cr Hannemann asked the council to remove the honesty box at the Recreation Lake and use the new ticketing system to charge members of the travelling public for using the camping area.
He also asked the Council to check the Recreational Lake area daily to make sure people are paying for the use of the facilities provided.
This article appeared in the Naracoorte Community News.
