Willetton Childcare Centre president steps down

WILLETTON Childcare Centre president Lindsay Holland has stepped down from his role at the organisation over concerns of a conflict of interest.

Mr Holland, who is also the Deputy Mayor at the City of Canning, said pending changes within the State Government funding of community childcare centres and a potential collaboration with the council meant now was the right time.

From June 30, 2018 the State Government will no longer lease, own or maintain the property of not for profit centre.

A board of parents has run the Willetton not-for-profit childcare centre for the more than 30 years.

After seven years, Mr Holland decided it was time to go.

“Although the changes won’t happen until 2018, the future of the centre looks as though it will depend on the relationship with the City of Canning,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s right that if it does go to council that I am a councillor deciding on its future.”

Mr Holland predicted a $10-$15 increase per day in childcare rates if the changes go ahead, to make up lost finding for rent.

“If it happens, fees will go up, it’s as simple as that,” Mr Holland said.

“Currently ours are as low as they can go so we don’t make a major profit.”

Mr Holland lamented the state decision, saying the changes would not make much of a difference to the budget bottom line.

He said he would leave with good memories and was proud of the work he had put in to make it viable.

New president Neil Burbridge said he would continue to put the centres needs first.

“I’ve been on the committee three years and taken on the role (of presidenta) to get the best centre possible here,” he said.

“It’s premature to have any ideas about how to handle the changes but obviously we are all concerned, the centre serves a valuable function in the community.”

He urged locals to attend the centre to sign a petition to reverse the State Government’s decision.

“Any support is welcome,” he said.