The Kagoshima City Government has released its budgetary plans for the new financial year (April 2008-March 2009). Plans for the next year have been arranged around the following aims for :

• A leader in environmental management, for the earth and for the future.
• A bustling, vibrant city with many attractions.
• Making it a city for all age groups, where everyone can live in good health
• Creating an inclusive city, where everyone can live in safety.
• The promotion of strong and independent governance in an era of decentralisation

The following are just some of the projects earmarked for the new financial year:

Environment Education Centre

A new centre designed to be a base for environmental learning and activities, provisionally named the ‘ (Kankyou Mirai )’ will open in October 2008. It is currently under construction in ’s Jyosei 2-chome. The centre is aimed at improving the environmental awareness of ’s citizens, both young and old. Special budgetary provisions have been put aside for events and special projects, environmental education and recycling workshops.

City Tram Track Greening Project.

The greening of the tram track area, designed to reduce the ‘heat island’ effect of excessive bitumen in the city area, will be extended from Kagoshima Chuo Station to Chushu Tram Stop. City buildings, such as schools and the Minato Ohdori Annex will also contribute to this effort through roof-top greening.

Sakurajima Tourism Promotion Plan.

The Yunohira Observatory is undergoing a major reconstruction. In order to experience Sakurajima’s magnificent scenery and onsens, as well as views of the city and , a foot onsen will be installed at the site.

Casual Walking Project

Together with the Kagoshima Tourism and Convention Association, the City plans to establish walking trails, guided by volunteers. The trails are mainly based around the Shiroyama area and the statue of Saigo Takamori. Provisional names for the trails include the ‘Meiji Restoration Trail’ along the road of history and culture. Local events will also be promoted through the volunteer guides.

Infant Medical Expense Support Project

In order to reduce the burden on young families, from April, the City will fully subsidise medical treatment costs for infants up until 3 years of age.

Hello Baby! Project

Families that have just had a baby (up to 4 months old) will be visited at home and receive useful advice for child-rearing. An adviser will listen to parents’ concerns, and provide information on establishing a caring environment for their child.

‘Dreams and Challenges’ Career Education Project

This program offers real work experience to teach children the wonder of work. It will give children a chance to dream of their future, and get a concrete experience of employment. With elements tailored to each level of schooling, there is something for every student.

National Health Festival (Nenrin-pic Kagoshima 2008)

The Nenrinpic is a festival of sports and culture for senior citizens over the age of 60. It features 6 activities, including baseball, tennis, soft tennis, swordsmanship, swimming and dancesport.

Flood Hazard Map

This project aims to educate citizens on flood awareness through the creation and distribution of a Koutsuki River Flood Hazard Map. The Map will include information on evacuation procedures etc.

Regional Safety Network Project

School safety will be improved by safety patrols and school guides around school areas. The City will assist the Regional Safety Network Association to further these aims.

Convenience Store Payment System

A system to enable the payment of city taxes at convenience stores is under construction. Most taxes will be payable at convenience stores for the next financial year, while nursing fees and property fees will be payable at stores in the following year.

Call Centre

A call centre dedicated to answering citizens’ questions has already been launched. The centre provides information on City services free of charge, every day of the year.