Concerns over missed opportunities and stalled projects dominated discussion at the latest Jamberoo Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association meeting last week.

Members expressed frustration that $50,000 in Rural Fire Service grant funding was lost.

The funding had been allocated for solar panels on the Jamberoo fire shed and for a community mural and garden project. Delays in securing permissions and obtaining information from Council meant both grants lapsed before the projects could proceed.

“This was a huge, missed opportunity,” one member said. “It would have saved the community thousands in electricity costs and added value to the town’s public spaces.”

Also discussed was the off-leash dog park in Jamberoo, which is listed on Kiama Municipal Council’s website as due for completion by June 2025.

Members noted the lack of visible progress or public plans and hoped that the timeline remains realistic.

Heritage signage was also discussed, with the group hoping to install five interpretive signs along the main street and two in Reid Park. Council has recently given unanimous support for the concept.

While earlier grant applications were unsuccessful, members expressed a strong willingness to pursue new funding opportunities.

Flooding and stormwater management remain live concerns, with little visible progress since community meetings in 2023.

Residents say the School of Arts and nearby homes are still vulnerable to flooding due to overland water flow in heavy rain

One member suggested Council be reminded of its responsibility to act before damage occurs again.

Discussion also turned to the Draft Local Housing Strategy, with particular concern about the inclusion of land behind Macquarie Street as a potential growth area.

Many landowners were unaware their land was referenced in the strategy and questioned how development would be feasible given the steep terrain, flooding risk and lack of infrastructure.

The group also reviewed the positive community meeting on the Jerrara Rainforest and Wetlands Reserve and noted Council’s willingness to consider funding an updated Plan of Management.

The meeting concluded with appreciation for the ongoing efforts of Councillors who continue to advocate for the Jamberoo community across a range of local issues, from housing and infrastructure to green space and heritage projects.