General account status
1 Establishment of a local circular economy
(1) Promotion of agriculture and livestock industry (agriculture-related)
1. Promotion of safe and secure agriculture in harmony with the environment
Agriculture in our town not only contributes to the stable production and supply of high-quality food for the region, but also works to conserve the land and the environment, and create beautiful rural landscapes, supporting the healthy lives of our townspeople. It also plays an important role as a core industry, linking with a wide range of industries such as food processing and tourism.
In order to promote sustainable agriculture with diversity that coexists with the local community, the town believes that soil preparation is the basis for realizing agriculture that brings peace of mind to consumers, and will continue to implement the "Comprehensive Clean Agriculture Promotion Project (Yes Clean Cultivation Subsidy)," "Promotion of Distribution of Fully Matured Compost," "Green Manure Crop Encouragement Project," and "Soil Diagnosis Project," which utilize local organic matter. Furthermore, starting this year, the town will begin the "Promotion of the Introduction of Biodegradable Mulch" project to promote efforts to reduce environmental impact.
We will also continue to provide the Environmental Conservation Agriculture Promotion Grant program to producer groups that practice environmental conservation farming activities, and support their activities.
In order to compensate for the disadvantage of agricultural production conditions in hilly and mountainous areas, etc., "direct payment subsidies for hilly and mountainous areas, etc.", which are issued to farmers who continue agricultural production activities, maintenance of farmland and improvement of quality of local resources We will continue the business of the “multifunctional payment subsidy” that is issued for joint activities aimed at
2. Establishment of highly profitable regional agriculture and cooperation between agriculture and tourism
We aim to ensure stable management by implementing a variety of innovative and ingenious initiatives, such as introducing high-profit crops, adding high value through clean agriculture and organic farming practices, agricultural processing, sixth-sector industrialization through direct sales, and local production and consumption strategies in collaboration with the commerce, industry, and tourism industries.
We will support the further development of Niseko Town 's sake-brewing rice, which is requested by sake brewers to be designated as a production area. In addition to continuing to promote Niseko Town cho rice sake such as "Kurandoshu" and "Ezo Fuji," we will also promote the sale of Niseko Town rice. We will promote local production and consumption and food education by providing production experiences for a wide range of generations, from young children to high school students.
In field crops, we promote appropriate crop rotation based on soil improvement, strive for planned planting and stable production, and promote the selection of priority crops and the establishment of production areas for newly introduced crops.
Additionally, in order to ensure continued production of "Yotei-grown Lily Root," the top brand in Japan, we will begin providing subsidies for the purchase of lily root seeds.
In dairy farming, in order to reduce external concerns such as rising feed prices, we will carry out grassland livestock infrastructure development projects and promote the stabilization of the foundation for sustainable self-sufficient feed production. We will also strive to maintain a good livestock farming environment by improving the quality of dairy cows through individual breeding, production of high-quality raw milk, and promoting livestock improvement. We will continue to promote livestock cluster projects, operate the dairy helper system, support measures to improve the quality of dairy cows, and take measures against livestock infectious diseases.
The compost center is managed and operated by JA Yotei, but rising maintenance costs and repairs due to the aging of the facility have made it difficult to manage, and the organization will continue to consider updating the work machinery used to maintain the facility.
In order to continue achieving stable production, we will review the facility's future outlook and management, including improving the environment for management and proper facility management, while continuing to supply high-quality, fully-matured compost, which is the foundation of the town's soil development.
In order to improve feed productivity in the pasture areas, the town's consolidated grasslands will continue to undergo grassland renewal as they did last year, as well as undergo repairs and other maintenance efforts.
3. Establishment of diverse and comfortable regional agriculture and utilization of human resources
With the aim of establishing highly profitable regional agriculture through the stable production of key crops and the establishment of key promotion crops, we will promote the government-run emergency farmland restructuring project. In addition to promoting the modernization of the agricultural production base, we will support the systematic conservation of farmland by consolidating the use of farmland for certified farmers and new farmers through the Farmland Intermediate Management Organization.
The Regional Agricultural Revitalization Council, which is made up of related organizations such as the town and JA, is responsible for measures to stabilize business income, such as applying for various direct payment subsidies for rice, field crops, and paddy field utilization. In an effort to strengthen the agricultural management structure, we support advanced management development and incorporation by certified farmers in order to improve the management and management capabilities of a corporate mindset.
4. Securing local leaders
Due to the shortage of agricultural workers and the aging of the agricultural population, there is a risk of farmland being abandoned. Based on the current "People and Farmland Plan," we will proceed with the formulation of the "Niseko Town Regional Plan" by March 2025. In order to accelerate the concentration of farmland in the hands of those who will become the core management bodies of the region, we will support farmers who are working to expand the scale of their farmland and those who cooperate in farmland concentration. In addition, in order to stimulate the desire of young people to become farmers and to help them settle in after they start farming, we will implement a subsidy program for those planning to start farming and young people who will take over management, create an environment that makes it easy to start farming, and strive to ensure the development of excellent human resources who will be responsible for local agriculture.
As a town-specific policy, we will implement measures such as providing support for new farmers, and strive to create an environment in which they can demonstrate their abilities and be active.
In addition, in conjunction with the implementation of the national emergency farmland reorganization and development project, the town, Agricultural Committee, and farmland intermediary management organizations will work together to promote efforts to eliminate abandoned farmland and smoothly concentrate farmland in the hands of motivated farmers.
5. Creating local industries that combine agriculture with tourism and commerce
Agriculture, commerce and industry, and tourism are always closely related, and we will work together more smoothly with tourism businesses and commercial construction companies to provide a wide range of local products while actively working to create a regional brand. promote to In addition, we will actively support landscape formation through the cultivation of green manure crops this year as well.
We promote initiatives such as local production for local consumption, food education, and food culture exchange, and we support the development of machinery and facilities necessary for high added value agricultural and livestock products and 6th industrialization, as well as software projects, so that farmers and various businesses can work together to develop products, develop sales channels, and build new business models. We will promote diverse and sustainable agriculture in Niseko that coexists with the local community.
6. Agricultural Committee Initiatives
Under national policy, the town is working to resolve issues relating to people and farmland, including formulating the Niseko Town Regional Plan by March 2025, and Agricultural Committee is expected to provide appropriate support for this effort.
Currently, the town is working to "achieve a strong agriculture" by implementing measures such as improving the infrastructure for farmland, introducing smart agriculture to make farm work more efficient, reducing the burden, and securing manpower.The Agricultural Committee also accurately grasps the ownership and usage status of farmland, as well as the intentions of farmland owners, and aims to "preserve high-quality farmland and coordinate its appropriate use."
Agriculture in our town not only contributes to the stable production and supply of high-quality food for the region, but also works to conserve the land and the environment, and create beautiful rural landscapes, supporting the healthy lives of our townspeople. It also plays an important role as a core industry, linking with a wide range of industries such as food processing and tourism.
In order to promote sustainable agriculture with diversity that coexists with the local community, the town believes that soil preparation is the basis for realizing agriculture that brings peace of mind to consumers, and will continue to implement the "Comprehensive Clean Agriculture Promotion Project (Yes Clean Cultivation Subsidy)," "Promotion of Distribution of Fully Matured Compost," "Green Manure Crop Encouragement Project," and "Soil Diagnosis Project," which utilize local organic matter. Furthermore, starting this year, the town will begin the "Promotion of the Introduction of Biodegradable Mulch" project to promote efforts to reduce environmental impact.
We will also continue to provide the Environmental Conservation Agriculture Promotion Grant program to producer groups that practice environmental conservation farming activities, and support their activities.
In order to compensate for the disadvantage of agricultural production conditions in hilly and mountainous areas, etc., "direct payment subsidies for hilly and mountainous areas, etc.", which are issued to farmers who continue agricultural production activities, maintenance of farmland and improvement of quality of local resources We will continue the business of the “multifunctional payment subsidy” that is issued for joint activities aimed at
2. Establishment of highly profitable regional agriculture and cooperation between agriculture and tourism
We aim to ensure stable management by implementing a variety of innovative and ingenious initiatives, such as introducing high-profit crops, adding high value through clean agriculture and organic farming practices, agricultural processing, sixth-sector industrialization through direct sales, and local production and consumption strategies in collaboration with the commerce, industry, and tourism industries.
We will support the further development of Niseko Town 's sake-brewing rice, which is requested by sake brewers to be designated as a production area. In addition to continuing to promote Niseko Town cho rice sake such as "Kurandoshu" and "Ezo Fuji," we will also promote the sale of Niseko Town rice. We will promote local production and consumption and food education by providing production experiences for a wide range of generations, from young children to high school students.
In field crops, we promote appropriate crop rotation based on soil improvement, strive for planned planting and stable production, and promote the selection of priority crops and the establishment of production areas for newly introduced crops.
Additionally, in order to ensure continued production of "Yotei-grown Lily Root," the top brand in Japan, we will begin providing subsidies for the purchase of lily root seeds.
In dairy farming, in order to reduce external concerns such as rising feed prices, we will carry out grassland livestock infrastructure development projects and promote the stabilization of the foundation for sustainable self-sufficient feed production. We will also strive to maintain a good livestock farming environment by improving the quality of dairy cows through individual breeding, production of high-quality raw milk, and promoting livestock improvement. We will continue to promote livestock cluster projects, operate the dairy helper system, support measures to improve the quality of dairy cows, and take measures against livestock infectious diseases.
The compost center is managed and operated by JA Yotei, but rising maintenance costs and repairs due to the aging of the facility have made it difficult to manage, and the organization will continue to consider updating the work machinery used to maintain the facility.
In order to continue achieving stable production, we will review the facility's future outlook and management, including improving the environment for management and proper facility management, while continuing to supply high-quality, fully-matured compost, which is the foundation of the town's soil development.
In order to improve feed productivity in the pasture areas, the town's consolidated grasslands will continue to undergo grassland renewal as they did last year, as well as undergo repairs and other maintenance efforts.
3. Establishment of diverse and comfortable regional agriculture and utilization of human resources
With the aim of establishing highly profitable regional agriculture through the stable production of key crops and the establishment of key promotion crops, we will promote the government-run emergency farmland restructuring project. In addition to promoting the modernization of the agricultural production base, we will support the systematic conservation of farmland by consolidating the use of farmland for certified farmers and new farmers through the Farmland Intermediate Management Organization.
The Regional Agricultural Revitalization Council, which is made up of related organizations such as the town and JA, is responsible for measures to stabilize business income, such as applying for various direct payment subsidies for rice, field crops, and paddy field utilization. In an effort to strengthen the agricultural management structure, we support advanced management development and incorporation by certified farmers in order to improve the management and management capabilities of a corporate mindset.
4. Securing local leaders
Due to the shortage of agricultural workers and the aging of the agricultural population, there is a risk of farmland being abandoned. Based on the current "People and Farmland Plan," we will proceed with the formulation of the "Niseko Town Regional Plan" by March 2025. In order to accelerate the concentration of farmland in the hands of those who will become the core management bodies of the region, we will support farmers who are working to expand the scale of their farmland and those who cooperate in farmland concentration. In addition, in order to stimulate the desire of young people to become farmers and to help them settle in after they start farming, we will implement a subsidy program for those planning to start farming and young people who will take over management, create an environment that makes it easy to start farming, and strive to ensure the development of excellent human resources who will be responsible for local agriculture.
As a town-specific policy, we will implement measures such as providing support for new farmers, and strive to create an environment in which they can demonstrate their abilities and be active.
In addition, in conjunction with the implementation of the national emergency farmland reorganization and development project, the town, Agricultural Committee, and farmland intermediary management organizations will work together to promote efforts to eliminate abandoned farmland and smoothly concentrate farmland in the hands of motivated farmers.
5. Creating local industries that combine agriculture with tourism and commerce
Agriculture, commerce and industry, and tourism are always closely related, and we will work together more smoothly with tourism businesses and commercial construction companies to provide a wide range of local products while actively working to create a regional brand. promote to In addition, we will actively support landscape formation through the cultivation of green manure crops this year as well.
We promote initiatives such as local production for local consumption, food education, and food culture exchange, and we support the development of machinery and facilities necessary for high added value agricultural and livestock products and 6th industrialization, as well as software projects, so that farmers and various businesses can work together to develop products, develop sales channels, and build new business models. We will promote diverse and sustainable agriculture in Niseko that coexists with the local community.
6. Agricultural Committee Initiatives
Under national policy, the town is working to resolve issues relating to people and farmland, including formulating the Niseko Town Regional Plan by March 2025, and Agricultural Committee is expected to provide appropriate support for this effort.
Currently, the town is working to "achieve a strong agriculture" by implementing measures such as improving the infrastructure for farmland, introducing smart agriculture to make farm work more efficient, reducing the burden, and securing manpower.The Agricultural Committee also accurately grasps the ownership and usage status of farmland, as well as the intentions of farmland owners, and aims to "preserve high-quality farmland and coordinate its appropriate use."
(2) Promotion of tourism (tax, commerce, industry and tourism)
1. Introduction of accommodation tax
We will consider using the accommodation tax as a source of revenue to promote efforts to improve the brand value of our city as a sustainable international resort destination, and to create Eco-Model City and an SDGs future city. We will consider how to allocate the accommodation tax to projects, and implement the projects while coordinating opinions with accommodation businesses and tourism-related organizations.
2. Creating a sustainable tourist destination that is "chosen" by the world
COVID-19 However, the shortage of labor in the tourism industry, which had been an issue even before the corona crisis, is becoming more serious, partly due to the spread of the corona infection. Based on the "Tourism Promotion Vision" formulated in the 2021 fiscal year (FY2021), our town has been working on the GSTC (Sustainable Tourism Destination Creation), which is the tourism version of the SDGs. As in the past, we will continue to strengthen the structure of the Niseko Resort & Tourism Association and accumulate human resources as the driving force behind this initiative, and we will also promote the accumulation of more specialized know-how by utilizing the government system and dispatching personnel from private companies. In cooperation with the Niseko Tourism Region Council and DMO (Niseko Promotion Board), which function in the wider Niseko area, we will work to ensure that tourism in the Niseko region is sustainable.
3. Recovery of tourism demand and attraction of tourists
As the COVID-19 infection spreads around the world, the number of foreign visitors to the Niseko region has dropped significantly, but since the COVID-19 outbreak was upgraded to Category 5 last year, the recovery in inbound tourism has become evident. While working to recover demand as a tourist resort, we will also endeavor to provide information that Niseko is a safer international resort destination.
We will continue to work on MICE, local travel, and educational travel. In cooperation with car sharing company Times Co., we placed three cars in the town (JR Niseko Station, Niseko Town Center) last year (during the summer) and conducted a demonstration experiment on their usage. In addition, from February, Times Co. will also conduct a demonstration experiment in the winter to grasp the annual usage situation.
The demonstration experiment will continue during the summer this fiscal year to understand how the service is being used as a means of transportation not only for tourists but also for local residents.
4. Enhancement of tourist information and information dissemination
Tourist information is the first point of contact with tourists visiting Niseko. We believe that listening carefully to the wishes of tourists and providing accurate information will also lead to improving Niseko's image. We will set up tourist information centers at Niseko Station, the gateway to the town, and at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station, and will work to improve the tourist information function so that more people can enjoy the Niseko area.
We will also disseminate information more effectively, such as by distributing promotional videos on our website and social media. As for tourist brochures and maps, we will consider disseminating information in an environmentally friendly and effective way that meets modern demands, while also promoting the digitalization of these materials.
5. Ensuring the safety of snowy mountains
In the Niseko region, many people enjoy the fresh snow outside the ski resort courses, so the local government, ski resorts, and other related organizations have joined forces to establish the Niseko Annupuri District Avalanche Accident Prevention Council, which is responsible for promoting safety measures at the ski resorts.
The council established the "Niseko Rules," the first of their kind in the country, and is working to prevent avalanche accidents in winter mountains. The town will continue to support the operation of the Niseko Avalanche Research Center and human resource development in order to make the "Niseko Rules" a sustainable rule. In addition, the town will work with related organizations to identify issues and develop necessary systems to ensure safety.
Based on a partnership agreement concluded with the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience in 2019, we will work with Kutchan Town to support the research that the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience will conduct in the Niseko area from 2024, and will focus on safety measures for snowy mountains.
6. Promotion of appropriate maintenance and redevelopment of tourist facilities
The Niseko Station hot spring "Kiranoyu" needs to update its facilities due to deterioration over time, so we will work closely with the designated manager to carry out planned equipment updates and facility renovations to minimize the impact on local residents and tourists. This year, we will install air conditioners in the building, reupholster the wooden parts of the sauna room, and carry out corrosion prevention work to make the facility more comfortable for users.
We will also strive to properly manage and operate tourism-related facilities such as the Goshiki Onsen Information Center.
In the redevelopment of the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station, after the basic design was formulated, the high-standard road (between Kutchan and Rankoshi) moved into the planning stage evaluation stage. Then, in December last year, it was decided that the entire section would be a motorway only, and in March this year, the project section was extended up to the Niseko Interchange. Going forward, the location of the route and interchanges will be determined before concrete work can begin.
7. Promotion of wide-area tourism cooperation
Niseko Town, Kutchan Town, and Rankoshi Town were certified as the "Niseko Tourism Zone" by the government in 2014, and have been working to create the appeal of the region.
Starting this year, based on the newly formulated "Niseko Tourism Area Development Plan 2024-2028," we will strive to increase the number of tourists from both Japan and abroad and to improve the environment to welcome them.
We will consider using the accommodation tax as a source of revenue to promote efforts to improve the brand value of our city as a sustainable international resort destination, and to create Eco-Model City and an SDGs future city. We will consider how to allocate the accommodation tax to projects, and implement the projects while coordinating opinions with accommodation businesses and tourism-related organizations.
2. Creating a sustainable tourist destination that is "chosen" by the world
COVID-19 However, the shortage of labor in the tourism industry, which had been an issue even before the corona crisis, is becoming more serious, partly due to the spread of the corona infection. Based on the "Tourism Promotion Vision" formulated in the 2021 fiscal year (FY2021), our town has been working on the GSTC (Sustainable Tourism Destination Creation), which is the tourism version of the SDGs. As in the past, we will continue to strengthen the structure of the Niseko Resort & Tourism Association and accumulate human resources as the driving force behind this initiative, and we will also promote the accumulation of more specialized know-how by utilizing the government system and dispatching personnel from private companies. In cooperation with the Niseko Tourism Region Council and DMO (Niseko Promotion Board), which function in the wider Niseko area, we will work to ensure that tourism in the Niseko region is sustainable.
3. Recovery of tourism demand and attraction of tourists
As the COVID-19 infection spreads around the world, the number of foreign visitors to the Niseko region has dropped significantly, but since the COVID-19 outbreak was upgraded to Category 5 last year, the recovery in inbound tourism has become evident. While working to recover demand as a tourist resort, we will also endeavor to provide information that Niseko is a safer international resort destination.
We will continue to work on MICE, local travel, and educational travel. In cooperation with car sharing company Times Co., we placed three cars in the town (JR Niseko Station, Niseko Town Center) last year (during the summer) and conducted a demonstration experiment on their usage. In addition, from February, Times Co. will also conduct a demonstration experiment in the winter to grasp the annual usage situation.
The demonstration experiment will continue during the summer this fiscal year to understand how the service is being used as a means of transportation not only for tourists but also for local residents.
4. Enhancement of tourist information and information dissemination
Tourist information is the first point of contact with tourists visiting Niseko. We believe that listening carefully to the wishes of tourists and providing accurate information will also lead to improving Niseko's image. We will set up tourist information centers at Niseko Station, the gateway to the town, and at the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station, and will work to improve the tourist information function so that more people can enjoy the Niseko area.
We will also disseminate information more effectively, such as by distributing promotional videos on our website and social media. As for tourist brochures and maps, we will consider disseminating information in an environmentally friendly and effective way that meets modern demands, while also promoting the digitalization of these materials.
5. Ensuring the safety of snowy mountains
In the Niseko region, many people enjoy the fresh snow outside the ski resort courses, so the local government, ski resorts, and other related organizations have joined forces to establish the Niseko Annupuri District Avalanche Accident Prevention Council, which is responsible for promoting safety measures at the ski resorts.
The council established the "Niseko Rules," the first of their kind in the country, and is working to prevent avalanche accidents in winter mountains. The town will continue to support the operation of the Niseko Avalanche Research Center and human resource development in order to make the "Niseko Rules" a sustainable rule. In addition, the town will work with related organizations to identify issues and develop necessary systems to ensure safety.
Based on a partnership agreement concluded with the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience in 2019, we will work with Kutchan Town to support the research that the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience will conduct in the Niseko area from 2024, and will focus on safety measures for snowy mountains.
6. Promotion of appropriate maintenance and redevelopment of tourist facilities
The Niseko Station hot spring "Kiranoyu" needs to update its facilities due to deterioration over time, so we will work closely with the designated manager to carry out planned equipment updates and facility renovations to minimize the impact on local residents and tourists. This year, we will install air conditioners in the building, reupholster the wooden parts of the sauna room, and carry out corrosion prevention work to make the facility more comfortable for users.
We will also strive to properly manage and operate tourism-related facilities such as the Goshiki Onsen Information Center.
In the redevelopment of the Niseko View Plaza Roadside Station, after the basic design was formulated, the high-standard road (between Kutchan and Rankoshi) moved into the planning stage evaluation stage. Then, in December last year, it was decided that the entire section would be a motorway only, and in March this year, the project section was extended up to the Niseko Interchange. Going forward, the location of the route and interchanges will be determined before concrete work can begin.
7. Promotion of wide-area tourism cooperation
Niseko Town, Kutchan Town, and Rankoshi Town were certified as the "Niseko Tourism Zone" by the government in 2014, and have been working to create the appeal of the region.
Starting this year, based on the newly formulated "Niseko Tourism Area Development Plan 2024-2028," we will strive to increase the number of tourists from both Japan and abroad and to improve the environment to welcome them.
(3) Promotion of commerce and industry and labor measures
1. Revitalization of local economy by promotion of commerce and industry
Based on the "Niseko Town Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Ordinance", we will strive to promote commerce and industry, including the continuous support of small and medium enterprises. The Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce plays a central role in supporting economic activity in the town, and the town will continue to comprehensively support its activities through subsidies for the promotion of commerce and industry.
In addition, we will continue to review and make the "Subsidy System for Supporting Entrepreneurs Creating Lively Lives" to make it easier to utilize, and support initiatives that will lead to the enhancement of the region's appeal through diverse collaboration in the "Niseko Town Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Attraction Improvement Project," which is carried out in cooperation with multiple local businesses. On the other hand, as a measure to address the chronic labor shortage, which is an issue for the entire town, we will proceed with concrete utilization of the "Specific Regional Development Business Cooperative System," which we have been considering since last year, and proceed with the creation of a system for securing human resources in conjunction with employment promotion measures.
We will continue to support the Kira Card Association, including their child-rearing support activities. We will also support events run by businesses and local volunteers, such as the Tanabata Fireworks Festival and the Kirakira Market, in an effort to revitalize the local economy and bring back excitement.
2. Support for new business and entrepreneurship
With the transition to the fifth category of COVID-19, it is expected that investment and economic circulation will become more active not only in the tourism industry, but also in various industries, such as business expansion and new businesses by private companies. In particular, small businesses are easy to change or start up, which contributes to responding to local needs and improving the attractiveness of the region. In cooperation with Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the town will continue to set up a one-stop consultation desk and actively support entrepreneurship.
3. Attracting companies, etc.
In recent years, we have received consultations regarding development and business expansion, and we will attract orderly development plans from companies that are sympathetic to the town development we have been promoting. Furthermore, our town has formulated the "Basic Plan Based on the Regional Future Investment Promotion Act" and the "Basic Promotion Plan Based on the Small and Medium Enterprise Management Strengthening Act," creating an environment that supports investment that makes use of the town's characteristics.
4. Eliminating labor shortages
Due to the impact of COVID-19, the labor shortage, which has been an issue for some time, has become even worse. Since last year, we have signed a partnership agreement with Timee, a part-time job service, and have been working to help alleviate the labor shortage.
This fiscal year, we will continue to collaborate with Timee under the partnership agreement, and aim to introduce the national system known as the "Specific Regional Development Business Cooperative System."
In addition, this year we will support the efforts of local businesses aimed at securing employees, thereby helping to secure employees and business talent.
5. Consumer Affairs
In order to protect consumers from fraudulent sales practices and various consumer troubles, the "Yotei Area Consumer Affairs Counseling Service," which is set up in seven neighboring towns and villages including our town, has been placed within Niseko Town Hall. This year, we will continue to work to improve our system so that we can respond to potential consumer troubles and help people who are suffering from consumer troubles to resolve them at an early stage, by ensuring training opportunities for counselors and other measures.
Based on the "Niseko Town Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion Ordinance", we will strive to promote commerce and industry, including the continuous support of small and medium enterprises. The Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce plays a central role in supporting economic activity in the town, and the town will continue to comprehensively support its activities through subsidies for the promotion of commerce and industry.
In addition, we will continue to review and make the "Subsidy System for Supporting Entrepreneurs Creating Lively Lives" to make it easier to utilize, and support initiatives that will lead to the enhancement of the region's appeal through diverse collaboration in the "Niseko Town Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Attraction Improvement Project," which is carried out in cooperation with multiple local businesses. On the other hand, as a measure to address the chronic labor shortage, which is an issue for the entire town, we will proceed with concrete utilization of the "Specific Regional Development Business Cooperative System," which we have been considering since last year, and proceed with the creation of a system for securing human resources in conjunction with employment promotion measures.
We will continue to support the Kira Card Association, including their child-rearing support activities. We will also support events run by businesses and local volunteers, such as the Tanabata Fireworks Festival and the Kirakira Market, in an effort to revitalize the local economy and bring back excitement.
2. Support for new business and entrepreneurship
With the transition to the fifth category of COVID-19, it is expected that investment and economic circulation will become more active not only in the tourism industry, but also in various industries, such as business expansion and new businesses by private companies. In particular, small businesses are easy to change or start up, which contributes to responding to local needs and improving the attractiveness of the region. In cooperation with Niseko Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the town will continue to set up a one-stop consultation desk and actively support entrepreneurship.
3. Attracting companies, etc.
In recent years, we have received consultations regarding development and business expansion, and we will attract orderly development plans from companies that are sympathetic to the town development we have been promoting. Furthermore, our town has formulated the "Basic Plan Based on the Regional Future Investment Promotion Act" and the "Basic Promotion Plan Based on the Small and Medium Enterprise Management Strengthening Act," creating an environment that supports investment that makes use of the town's characteristics.
4. Eliminating labor shortages
Due to the impact of COVID-19, the labor shortage, which has been an issue for some time, has become even worse. Since last year, we have signed a partnership agreement with Timee, a part-time job service, and have been working to help alleviate the labor shortage.
This fiscal year, we will continue to collaborate with Timee under the partnership agreement, and aim to introduce the national system known as the "Specific Regional Development Business Cooperative System."
In addition, this year we will support the efforts of local businesses aimed at securing employees, thereby helping to secure employees and business talent.
5. Consumer Affairs
In order to protect consumers from fraudulent sales practices and various consumer troubles, the "Yotei Area Consumer Affairs Counseling Service," which is set up in seven neighboring towns and villages including our town, has been placed within Niseko Town Hall. This year, we will continue to work to improve our system so that we can respond to potential consumer troubles and help people who are suffering from consumer troubles to resolve them at an early stage, by ensuring training opportunities for counselors and other measures.
2 Creating a town where everyone can live with a healthy smile
(1) Child care support (health and welfare)
1. Child-rearing support business
Support for childbirth and child-rearing households will continue as in the previous year through the Childbirth and Child-rearing Support Subsidy, and in regards to children's health, routine vaccinations will continue as required by law. In addition, optional vaccinations for mumps and influenza will be fully covered by public funds.
Regarding children's medical care, we will continue to provide free medical care for those up to the age of 18, as well as medical expenses for raising premature infants and medical expenses for their development.
Regarding child allowance payments, the payment amount and requirements will be revised starting with the payment in October of this year. More details will be announced as they become available.
2. Maternal and child health business
Children's health checkups will continue to include infant health checkups based on the Maternal and Child Health Act, as well as health checkups for 5-year-olds, dental checkups, newborn hearing tests, and Helicobacter pylori tests for second-year junior high school students.
In addition to health checkups for pregnant women, we will also subsidize part of the costs of infertility treatment and newly developed fertility treatment. "Parent classes" for pregnant women and fathers, and postnatal care visits by midwives to mothers after giving birth will also be held this year upon request.
Support for childbirth and child-rearing households will continue as in the previous year through the Childbirth and Child-rearing Support Subsidy, and in regards to children's health, routine vaccinations will continue as required by law. In addition, optional vaccinations for mumps and influenza will be fully covered by public funds.
Regarding children's medical care, we will continue to provide free medical care for those up to the age of 18, as well as medical expenses for raising premature infants and medical expenses for their development.
Regarding child allowance payments, the payment amount and requirements will be revised starting with the payment in October of this year. More details will be announced as they become available.
2. Maternal and child health business
Children's health checkups will continue to include infant health checkups based on the Maternal and Child Health Act, as well as health checkups for 5-year-olds, dental checkups, newborn hearing tests, and Helicobacter pylori tests for second-year junior high school students.
In addition to health checkups for pregnant women, we will also subsidize part of the costs of infertility treatment and newly developed fertility treatment. "Parent classes" for pregnant women and fathers, and postnatal care visits by midwives to mothers after giving birth will also be held this year upon request.
(2) The welfare of the elderly and the disabled (health and welfare)
1. Elderly welfare measures
The Niseko Town Social Welfare Council will continue to provide nursing care services and transportation services for elderly people living at home. In addition, the meal delivery service will work with local businesses to also monitor the elderly.
The Niseko Town Life Support Center will utilize the adult guardianship system according to the needs of people who lack sufficient judgment due to dementia or other reasons.
To enable elderly people to live safely and securely at home, we will continue to provide services such as "welfare kerosene assistance," "snow removal service project," "Niseko Station Hot Springs admission fee assistance," "home renovation cost subsidy," and "emergency notification system project."
2. Welfare measures for persons with disabilities
We will work with neighboring towns, villages, and businesses to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities who are unable to find regular employment.
In addition to the "disability support project" based on the law, assistance to welfare organizations for the disabled, "hospital and outpatient welfare allowance", "taxi fare assistance", "Niseko station front hot spring admission fee assistance", "housing renovation assistance", " We will also continue to implement medical benefits for severely disabled people and subsidies for the operation of regional activity support centers.
3. Long-term care insurance, long-term care prevention business
In the nursing care prevention program, we will continue to hold "Healthy Health Classes" and "Muscle Building Classes" to prevent the need for nursing care in the future. We will also continue to make "visits to talk to people" to support life at home.
The town's independent projects, "Life Purpose Activity Support Center Project" and "Mild Life Support Project", will be implemented according to the circumstances of the target person. In addition, we will support the health promotion project conducted by the Niseko Town Social Welfare Council.
The nursing care insurance program is run by the Shiribeshi Regional Association, which collects insurance premiums and pays service fees, and the town pays its contributions to these programs.
In addition, due to system reform, new issuance of paper health insurance cards will cease in December of this year, but cards that are renewed in July are scheduled to be valid for one year.
The Niseko Town Social Welfare Council will continue to provide nursing care services and transportation services for elderly people living at home. In addition, the meal delivery service will work with local businesses to also monitor the elderly.
The Niseko Town Life Support Center will utilize the adult guardianship system according to the needs of people who lack sufficient judgment due to dementia or other reasons.
To enable elderly people to live safely and securely at home, we will continue to provide services such as "welfare kerosene assistance," "snow removal service project," "Niseko Station Hot Springs admission fee assistance," "home renovation cost subsidy," and "emergency notification system project."
2. Welfare measures for persons with disabilities
We will work with neighboring towns, villages, and businesses to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities who are unable to find regular employment.
In addition to the "disability support project" based on the law, assistance to welfare organizations for the disabled, "hospital and outpatient welfare allowance", "taxi fare assistance", "Niseko station front hot spring admission fee assistance", "housing renovation assistance", " We will also continue to implement medical benefits for severely disabled people and subsidies for the operation of regional activity support centers.
3. Long-term care insurance, long-term care prevention business
In the nursing care prevention program, we will continue to hold "Healthy Health Classes" and "Muscle Building Classes" to prevent the need for nursing care in the future. We will also continue to make "visits to talk to people" to support life at home.
The town's independent projects, "Life Purpose Activity Support Center Project" and "Mild Life Support Project", will be implemented according to the circumstances of the target person. In addition, we will support the health promotion project conducted by the Niseko Town Social Welfare Council.
The nursing care insurance program is run by the Shiribeshi Regional Association, which collects insurance premiums and pays service fees, and the town pays its contributions to these programs.
In addition, due to system reform, new issuance of paper health insurance cards will cease in December of this year, but cards that are renewed in July are scheduled to be valid for one year.
(3) Health promotion (health and welfare-related)
1. Medical examination and disease prevention measures
The town's health check-up programs are scheduled to run as usual. Regarding cancer screening, we will continue to distribute free coupons for breast cancer screening to people aged between 40 and 60, and for cervical cancer screening to people aged between 20 and 40.
In addition, we will invite health committee members from each district of the town to participate in study sessions on disease prevention and health promotion and to carry out awareness-raising activities.
2. Echinococcus extermination measures
Echinococcus extermination measures have been implemented since 2009 (fiscal year 2009) with the cooperation of volunteer townspeople. Bait (fox bait mixed with insecticide) is sprayed once a month from May to November every year, with great results. As a result of this bait application, the positive rate of insect eggs (the percentage of insect eggs found in fox droppings) in the 2023 fiscal year (FY2023) was 0%.
The town's health check-up programs are scheduled to run as usual. Regarding cancer screening, we will continue to distribute free coupons for breast cancer screening to people aged between 40 and 60, and for cervical cancer screening to people aged between 20 and 40.
In addition, we will invite health committee members from each district of the town to participate in study sessions on disease prevention and health promotion and to carry out awareness-raising activities.
2. Echinococcus extermination measures
Echinococcus extermination measures have been implemented since 2009 (fiscal year 2009) with the cooperation of volunteer townspeople. Bait (fox bait mixed with insecticide) is sprayed once a month from May to November every year, with great results. As a result of this bait application, the positive rate of insect eggs (the percentage of insect eggs found in fox droppings) in the 2023 fiscal year (FY2023) was 0%.
3 Creating environmentally friendly Niseko
(1) Conservation of the natural environment and environmental measures (planning environment, townspeople's life, urban construction, water and sewage related)
1. Conservation of natural environment and water resources
In order to preserve the rich natural environment, we will promote various initiatives based on the "Niseko Town Basic Environmental Ordinance" and other ordinances, and through the implementation and verification of measures positioned in the "Basic Environmental Plan," "Global Warming Countermeasures Action Plan," "Niseko Town Decarbonization Action Plan," and "General Waste Treatment Basic Plan," we will protect and nurture the town's blessed natural environment and strive to link these initiatives to economic activity.
The Water Supply Source Protection Ordinance regulates certain development around water sources, while continuing to strive to maintain a good environment.
Under the Groundwater Conservation Ordinance, we will continue to implement appropriate regulations and strive to conserve groundwater in order to prevent groundwater depletion and land subsidence caused by large-scale extraction.
2. Landscape creation and orderly development guidance
Until now, Niseko's unique landscape has been protected by quasi-city planning and Landscape Ordinance based on the City Planning Act, which have promoted development guidance based on landscape formation standards for buildings and development projects that exceed a certain area. In light of the state of development projects in recent years, we will amend part of Landscape Ordinance based on the building guidelines, continue to work to optimize the system, and promote the creation of a good landscape.
3. Waste measures
The town has formulated the "General Waste Disposal Basic Plan" (from fiscal year 2024 to fiscal year 2023), which will serve as a long-term, comprehensive guideline for future waste disposal, and has also formulated a "Disaster Waste Disposal Plan" that sets out necessary matters to ensure the rapid disposal of waste in the event of a disaster.
In order to build an environmentally friendly, recycling-oriented society, the town will actively work on garbage recycling and other appropriate waste disposal measures.
Regarding the commercial waste currently being processed by the town, we will be examining whether it is possible to establish an appropriate collection, transportation and processing system under the responsibility of the waste generator, in accordance with the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Act, or whether it is possible to reduce the town's significant burden by revising fees.
In addition, the disposal fee for those who do not use designated garbage bags will be changed to an appropriate price. Nine years have passed since the seven towns and villages at the foot of Mt. Yotei began full-scale operation of converting "burnable garbage" into solid fuel in 2015. So far, no major changes have been made, such as a review of sorting rules, but we will continue to cooperate and discuss with the towns and villages involved to ensure that the solid fuel processing facility is operated appropriately.
We will respond appropriately to requests such as the expansion and relocation of garbage stations in the town due to the increase in population and households and the invigoration of economic activities.
To combat inappropriate waste disposal, we will work with users of each waste station to strengthen our efforts, while also providing more explanations and information to new residents, foreigners, and private lodging operators on proper waste disposal. To promote understanding of waste separation and recycling, we will further publicize the use of the "Garbage Separation App Service," and in the case of malicious inappropriate waste or illegal waste, we will identify those who generate it and work with the police to provide warnings and guidance.
In addition, a new facility where people can bring in garbage will be installed in 2023, improving convenience.
As a measure to reduce non-burnable garbage, we will collect and recycle used small home appliances again this year.
4. Hygiene measures
At Niseko Funeral Hall, we will perform smooth operation and proper maintenance of cremation services. We will strive to improve our services with the aim of further improving them.
For sewage treatment, we will continue to cover the costs of maintaining the Yotei Sanitation Center through wide-area collaboration, and will also hold discussions with the constituent towns and villages to develop a "Basic Facility Improvement Plan" in order to update the aging Yotei Sanitation Center facilities.
The subsidy program for the installation of combined septic tanks to treat sewage and domestic wastewater will be revised to only provide subsidies for the conversion from pumping or individual septic tanks to combined septic tanks, and while utilizing government grants, the subsidy amount will be increased to promote the conversion to combined septic tanks, thereby improving living conditions and preserving the water environment.
The town will strive to properly manage the cemeteries under its jurisdiction with consideration for the surrounding environment.
In order to preserve the rich natural environment, we will promote various initiatives based on the "Niseko Town Basic Environmental Ordinance" and other ordinances, and through the implementation and verification of measures positioned in the "Basic Environmental Plan," "Global Warming Countermeasures Action Plan," "Niseko Town Decarbonization Action Plan," and "General Waste Treatment Basic Plan," we will protect and nurture the town's blessed natural environment and strive to link these initiatives to economic activity.
The Water Supply Source Protection Ordinance regulates certain development around water sources, while continuing to strive to maintain a good environment.
Under the Groundwater Conservation Ordinance, we will continue to implement appropriate regulations and strive to conserve groundwater in order to prevent groundwater depletion and land subsidence caused by large-scale extraction.
2. Landscape creation and orderly development guidance
Until now, Niseko's unique landscape has been protected by quasi-city planning and Landscape Ordinance based on the City Planning Act, which have promoted development guidance based on landscape formation standards for buildings and development projects that exceed a certain area. In light of the state of development projects in recent years, we will amend part of Landscape Ordinance based on the building guidelines, continue to work to optimize the system, and promote the creation of a good landscape.
3. Waste measures
The town has formulated the "General Waste Disposal Basic Plan" (from fiscal year 2024 to fiscal year 2023), which will serve as a long-term, comprehensive guideline for future waste disposal, and has also formulated a "Disaster Waste Disposal Plan" that sets out necessary matters to ensure the rapid disposal of waste in the event of a disaster.
In order to build an environmentally friendly, recycling-oriented society, the town will actively work on garbage recycling and other appropriate waste disposal measures.
Regarding the commercial waste currently being processed by the town, we will be examining whether it is possible to establish an appropriate collection, transportation and processing system under the responsibility of the waste generator, in accordance with the Waste Management and Public Cleansing Act, or whether it is possible to reduce the town's significant burden by revising fees.
In addition, the disposal fee for those who do not use designated garbage bags will be changed to an appropriate price. Nine years have passed since the seven towns and villages at the foot of Mt. Yotei began full-scale operation of converting "burnable garbage" into solid fuel in 2015. So far, no major changes have been made, such as a review of sorting rules, but we will continue to cooperate and discuss with the towns and villages involved to ensure that the solid fuel processing facility is operated appropriately.
We will respond appropriately to requests such as the expansion and relocation of garbage stations in the town due to the increase in population and households and the invigoration of economic activities.
To combat inappropriate waste disposal, we will work with users of each waste station to strengthen our efforts, while also providing more explanations and information to new residents, foreigners, and private lodging operators on proper waste disposal. To promote understanding of waste separation and recycling, we will further publicize the use of the "Garbage Separation App Service," and in the case of malicious inappropriate waste or illegal waste, we will identify those who generate it and work with the police to provide warnings and guidance.
In addition, a new facility where people can bring in garbage will be installed in 2023, improving convenience.
As a measure to reduce non-burnable garbage, we will collect and recycle used small home appliances again this year.
4. Hygiene measures
At Niseko Funeral Hall, we will perform smooth operation and proper maintenance of cremation services. We will strive to improve our services with the aim of further improving them.
For sewage treatment, we will continue to cover the costs of maintaining the Yotei Sanitation Center through wide-area collaboration, and will also hold discussions with the constituent towns and villages to develop a "Basic Facility Improvement Plan" in order to update the aging Yotei Sanitation Center facilities.
The subsidy program for the installation of combined septic tanks to treat sewage and domestic wastewater will be revised to only provide subsidies for the conversion from pumping or individual septic tanks to combined septic tanks, and while utilizing government grants, the subsidy amount will be increased to promote the conversion to combined septic tanks, thereby improving living conditions and preserving the water environment.
The town will strive to properly manage the cemeteries under its jurisdiction with consideration for the surrounding environment.
(2) Conversion to a self-sustaining resource-saving society (planning environment, urban construction-related)
1. Promotion of Eco-Model City
The Niseko Town Decarbonization Action Plan has the basic goal of achieving both revitalization of economic activity and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and is a plan that broadly involves not only the public sector but also tourism, agriculture, retail, transportation, households, etc. Cooperation with not only the government and townspeople but also private businesses is essential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
We will work with relevant organizations to promote initiatives based on our action plan toward achieving zero carbon.
2. Enactment of ordinances for greenhouse gas reduction and adaptation to climate change
In order to promote the reduction of greenhouse gases, the town enacted the "Ordinance Concerning the Appropriate Promotion of Renewable Energy Businesses," which obliges operators of renewable energy businesses such as solar power generation to submit prior notification and provide explanations to residents. It has been in operation since April 2022.
In addition, in order to adapt to the effects of climate change, such as rising average temperatures, increased short-term heavy rainfall, intensifying disasters, and the emergence of new infectious diseases, the Niseko Town Climate Change Adaptation Policy has been established, clarifying the direction of the town's efforts.
Since about 70% of greenhouse gas emissions in the town come from buildings, this year we aim to enact the "Niseko Town Climate Change Countermeasures Promotion Ordinance," which will mainly guide new buildings to be highly energy-efficient, and through the enforcement of these ordinances, we will promote further reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, as part of the promotion of the "Ordinance to Promote Appropriate Bicycle Use," we will proceed with the installation of wooden bicycle stands made of larch wood produced in the town.
3. NISEKO life / model district construction business and establishment of town development company
In the NISEKO life / model district construction project "Niseko Mirai" positioned in the "SDGs Future City Plan", in order to respond to the town's chronic housing shortage and the desire of the townspeople to relocate, based on the perspective of SDGs, such as reducing greenhouse gases, environmental We are developing neighborhoods in consideration of the surface.
This year, the implementing body, Niseko Machi Co., Ltd., plans to continue construction work within the first construction section, while the town will be responsible for the construction of infrastructure essential to daily life, such as roads, water supply and sewerage, fire tanks, and streetlights.
We will also support demonstration projects aimed at lowering housing prices and rents while ensuring high performance and decarbonization.
4. Subsidies for home eco-renovation
In order to reduce the environmental impact of the town, we are implementing a subsidy program to promote energy-saving renovations to homes in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from homes and create more comfortable living environments. We will subsidize part of the cost of energy-saving renovations (over 500,000 yen) such as window insulation renovations.
The Niseko Town Decarbonization Action Plan has the basic goal of achieving both revitalization of economic activity and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and is a plan that broadly involves not only the public sector but also tourism, agriculture, retail, transportation, households, etc. Cooperation with not only the government and townspeople but also private businesses is essential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
We will work with relevant organizations to promote initiatives based on our action plan toward achieving zero carbon.
2. Enactment of ordinances for greenhouse gas reduction and adaptation to climate change
In order to promote the reduction of greenhouse gases, the town enacted the "Ordinance Concerning the Appropriate Promotion of Renewable Energy Businesses," which obliges operators of renewable energy businesses such as solar power generation to submit prior notification and provide explanations to residents. It has been in operation since April 2022.
In addition, in order to adapt to the effects of climate change, such as rising average temperatures, increased short-term heavy rainfall, intensifying disasters, and the emergence of new infectious diseases, the Niseko Town Climate Change Adaptation Policy has been established, clarifying the direction of the town's efforts.
Since about 70% of greenhouse gas emissions in the town come from buildings, this year we aim to enact the "Niseko Town Climate Change Countermeasures Promotion Ordinance," which will mainly guide new buildings to be highly energy-efficient, and through the enforcement of these ordinances, we will promote further reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, as part of the promotion of the "Ordinance to Promote Appropriate Bicycle Use," we will proceed with the installation of wooden bicycle stands made of larch wood produced in the town.
3. NISEKO life / model district construction business and establishment of town development company
In the NISEKO life / model district construction project "Niseko Mirai" positioned in the "SDGs Future City Plan", in order to respond to the town's chronic housing shortage and the desire of the townspeople to relocate, based on the perspective of SDGs, such as reducing greenhouse gases, environmental We are developing neighborhoods in consideration of the surface.
This year, the implementing body, Niseko Machi Co., Ltd., plans to continue construction work within the first construction section, while the town will be responsible for the construction of infrastructure essential to daily life, such as roads, water supply and sewerage, fire tanks, and streetlights.
We will also support demonstration projects aimed at lowering housing prices and rents while ensuring high performance and decarbonization.
4. Subsidies for home eco-renovation
In order to reduce the environmental impact of the town, we are implementing a subsidy program to promote energy-saving renovations to homes in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from homes and create more comfortable living environments. We will subsidize part of the cost of energy-saving renovations (over 500,000 yen) such as window insulation renovations.
(3) Promotion of forestry (agriculture-related)
Based on the Forest Management Plan, we aim to create forests that emphasize the multifaceted functions of forests.
In addition, in cooperation with forestry associations and other organizations, we will continue to support planned reforestation in privately owned forests through our "Rich Forest Creation Promotion Project," as well as through the town's own thinning encouragement project to promote thinning.
In cooperation with Niseko Yukimorikosha Co., Ltd., which was established last year, and in cooperation with stakeholders both inside and outside the town, the town will promote wood education for residents and develop human resources in order to circularly utilize local forest resources, as well as produce wooden products using materials produced in the town and supply timber to SDGs blocks and other areas.
As for the town-owned forests, in the Toge area, we will be thinning trees and clearing the undergrowth of the clean larch that was planted last year. We will also cover part of the costs of the construction of the Niseko Katsuradai Line (4,900m), a new forestry road in the Katsuradai area, which is being carried out by Hokkaido Prefecture, and strive to maintain and enhance the multifaceted functions of the forests.
We will accelerate discussions on building a circular society through the utilization of forest resources, including the use of privately owned forests.
In addition, in cooperation with forestry associations and other organizations, we will continue to support planned reforestation in privately owned forests through our "Rich Forest Creation Promotion Project," as well as through the town's own thinning encouragement project to promote thinning.
In cooperation with Niseko Yukimorikosha Co., Ltd., which was established last year, and in cooperation with stakeholders both inside and outside the town, the town will promote wood education for residents and develop human resources in order to circularly utilize local forest resources, as well as produce wooden products using materials produced in the town and supply timber to SDGs blocks and other areas.
As for the town-owned forests, in the Toge area, we will be thinning trees and clearing the undergrowth of the clean larch that was planted last year. We will also cover part of the costs of the construction of the Niseko Katsuradai Line (4,900m), a new forestry road in the Katsuradai area, which is being carried out by Hokkaido Prefecture, and strive to maintain and enhance the multifaceted functions of the forests.
We will accelerate discussions on building a circular society through the utilization of forest resources, including the use of privately owned forests.
4 Foster a rich heart and a unique culture
The main items proposed by the Mayor to the Board of Education at last year's general education meeting and exchanged opinions with the Board of Education are as follows.
These include basic ideas about the Board of Education system, education-related budgets, creating a place for children, the future of Niseko High School, the development of high school dormitories, how to utilize school facilities, and creating opportunities to experience culture and the arts.
We will continue to work closely with the Board of Education to ensure that its initiatives proceed smoothly.
These include basic ideas about the Board of Education system, education-related budgets, creating a place for children, the future of Niseko High School, the development of high school dormitories, how to utilize school facilities, and creating opportunities to experience culture and the arts.
We will continue to work closely with the Board of Education to ensure that its initiatives proceed smoothly.
(1) Enhancement of educational environment, promotion of culture and sports (education-related)
According to educational administrative execution policy.
(2) Promotion of community activities and international exchange (townsman life, planning environment related)
1. Niseko Town citizens center, utilization of community facilities
In order to operate the Niseko Town Community Center, which serves as the base for community activities, properly, we will improve the convenience of users while carrying out proper maintenance. In addition, we will promote the use of the Nishitomi District Community Center as a base for promoting community activities in the area surrounding Nishitomi and in the event of a disaster. We will also strive to properly maintain and manage local community facilities so that they can be effectively used as bases for a variety of community activities.
The central warehouses are operated under the designated manager system and are used as a place of relaxation for the townspeople. In particular, they are used as a place for interaction between the child-rearing generation, and as a support and coordination facility for the activities of the local revitalization cooperation team. They also function as a relocation and settlement liaison office and a teleworking facility, and we will continue to improve the facility's functions so that it will continue to be a familiar place to the townspeople.
2. Promotion and support of community development and community development activities
The town believes that the role of local communities, such as neighborhood association activities, is extremely important, and will continue to support neighborhood association activities and the formation of local communities through the operation of the Local Autonomy Promotion Grant System (increased this year) and other means, with the aim of building an independent local community where residents think and act for themselves.
As a result of village reorganization, local community centers that are operated and managed under the designated manager system will receive support for the renovation of facilities and equipment, snow removal from parking lots, and other measures to improve the convenience of the facilities while also taking measures to reduce the burden on the designated manager.
3. Promotion of international exchange
In order to respond to the globalization within the town and to actively disseminate information about the town both domestically and internationally, we will continue to employ five Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) (with the possibility of increasing this number) who are knowledgeable about Japanese culture and have high Japanese language proficiency, and will continue to promote globalization and multicultural coexistence within the town with the cooperation of all townspeople.
We will also support the creation of an environment that will expand opportunities for international exchange within the town, taking into consideration the wishes and personalities of each international exchange officer so that they can continue their activities with a sense of fulfillment.In addition, we will be dispatching one staff member to the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations, which has been the dispatching source of international exchange officers that have supported the internationalization of our town up until now, from the new fiscal year.
In order to operate the Niseko Town Community Center, which serves as the base for community activities, properly, we will improve the convenience of users while carrying out proper maintenance. In addition, we will promote the use of the Nishitomi District Community Center as a base for promoting community activities in the area surrounding Nishitomi and in the event of a disaster. We will also strive to properly maintain and manage local community facilities so that they can be effectively used as bases for a variety of community activities.
The central warehouses are operated under the designated manager system and are used as a place of relaxation for the townspeople. In particular, they are used as a place for interaction between the child-rearing generation, and as a support and coordination facility for the activities of the local revitalization cooperation team. They also function as a relocation and settlement liaison office and a teleworking facility, and we will continue to improve the facility's functions so that it will continue to be a familiar place to the townspeople.
2. Promotion and support of community development and community development activities
The town believes that the role of local communities, such as neighborhood association activities, is extremely important, and will continue to support neighborhood association activities and the formation of local communities through the operation of the Local Autonomy Promotion Grant System (increased this year) and other means, with the aim of building an independent local community where residents think and act for themselves.
As a result of village reorganization, local community centers that are operated and managed under the designated manager system will receive support for the renovation of facilities and equipment, snow removal from parking lots, and other measures to improve the convenience of the facilities while also taking measures to reduce the burden on the designated manager.
3. Promotion of international exchange
In order to respond to the globalization within the town and to actively disseminate information about the town both domestically and internationally, we will continue to employ five Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) (with the possibility of increasing this number) who are knowledgeable about Japanese culture and have high Japanese language proficiency, and will continue to promote globalization and multicultural coexistence within the town with the cooperation of all townspeople.
We will also support the creation of an environment that will expand opportunities for international exchange within the town, taking into consideration the wishes and personalities of each international exchange officer so that they can continue their activities with a sense of fulfillment.In addition, we will be dispatching one staff member to the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations, which has been the dispatching source of international exchange officers that have supported the internationalization of our town up until now, from the new fiscal year.
5 Supporting safe and secure living
(1) Strengthening disaster prevention measures (general affairs, firefighting)
1. Strengthening the disaster prevention system
Based on the "Niseko Town Regional Disaster Prevention Plan," the town will continue to promote "disaster prevention, mitigation, and national resilience" measures to protect the lives and property of townspeople.
In recent years, unprecedented large-scale natural disasters, such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake, have occurred frequently across the country, causing enormous damage. Our town has also established a disaster response system in the event of an emergency, and in order to quickly and reliably convey information to townspeople and take evacuation measures, our staff will participate in disaster prevention drills and training sessions to further improve their practical disaster prevention capabilities.
In order to lay the foundation for independent disaster prevention activities by each neighborhood association in the town, we plan disaster prevention training and practical training, strive to foster voluntary disaster prevention measures rooted in the community, and aim to improve the local disaster prevention capabilities through cooperation between the government and the townspeople. At the same time, we will continue to promote the stockpiling of disaster prevention equipment that will be needed in the event of a disaster.
The town hall, which also functions as a disaster prevention center, will serve as a base for disaster prevention measures and contribute to the safe and secure lives of all townspeople.We will also strive to make the building a friendly and accessible place that all townspeople can use with ease.
In strengthening our firefighting capabilities, we will continue to aim to improve our emergency and firefighting capabilities in order to increase firefighting capabilities for residents, based on the ``10-Year Plan for Firefighting Development'' that began in fiscal 2012.
2. Bases such as disaster response headquarters
The town hall will continue to improve its systems so that it can fully function as a disaster prevention base that protects people's peace of mind, safety, and lives, by developing a disaster prevention supply storehouse, diversifying air-conditioning heat sources to include electricity, gas, kerosene, etc., and installing emergency generators, and is fully equipped with disaster prevention functions.
This year, we will carry out detailed design work and begin construction of the Niseko Fire Department building, disaster prevention storage warehouse, and disaster prevention vehicle parking lot on the site of the old building.
3. Nuclear disaster prevention measures
We will closely monitor the verification of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident countermeasures, and will strive to establish an effective nuclear disaster prevention plan in light of the unique and serious nature of nuclear disasters. We will make appropriate preparations to protect the lives, bodies, and property of our townspeople, and strive to raise awareness and publicize evacuation procedures in the event of a nuclear disaster.
Nuclear disaster prevention drills will continue to be held jointly with the national government, Hokkaido Prefecture, and relevant local governments, incorporating more practical training items.
We will work with relevant agencies, including the national government, Hokkaido, and neighboring towns and villages, to implement nuclear disaster prevention measures to strengthen safety measures at Tomari Nuclear Power Plant and the local disaster prevention system, so that appropriate responses can be made in the event of an emergency.
Based on the "Niseko Town Regional Disaster Prevention Plan," the town will continue to promote "disaster prevention, mitigation, and national resilience" measures to protect the lives and property of townspeople.
In recent years, unprecedented large-scale natural disasters, such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake, have occurred frequently across the country, causing enormous damage. Our town has also established a disaster response system in the event of an emergency, and in order to quickly and reliably convey information to townspeople and take evacuation measures, our staff will participate in disaster prevention drills and training sessions to further improve their practical disaster prevention capabilities.
In order to lay the foundation for independent disaster prevention activities by each neighborhood association in the town, we plan disaster prevention training and practical training, strive to foster voluntary disaster prevention measures rooted in the community, and aim to improve the local disaster prevention capabilities through cooperation between the government and the townspeople. At the same time, we will continue to promote the stockpiling of disaster prevention equipment that will be needed in the event of a disaster.
The town hall, which also functions as a disaster prevention center, will serve as a base for disaster prevention measures and contribute to the safe and secure lives of all townspeople.We will also strive to make the building a friendly and accessible place that all townspeople can use with ease.
In strengthening our firefighting capabilities, we will continue to aim to improve our emergency and firefighting capabilities in order to increase firefighting capabilities for residents, based on the ``10-Year Plan for Firefighting Development'' that began in fiscal 2012.
2. Bases such as disaster response headquarters
The town hall will continue to improve its systems so that it can fully function as a disaster prevention base that protects people's peace of mind, safety, and lives, by developing a disaster prevention supply storehouse, diversifying air-conditioning heat sources to include electricity, gas, kerosene, etc., and installing emergency generators, and is fully equipped with disaster prevention functions.
This year, we will carry out detailed design work and begin construction of the Niseko Fire Department building, disaster prevention storage warehouse, and disaster prevention vehicle parking lot on the site of the old building.
3. Nuclear disaster prevention measures
We will closely monitor the verification of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident countermeasures, and will strive to establish an effective nuclear disaster prevention plan in light of the unique and serious nature of nuclear disasters. We will make appropriate preparations to protect the lives, bodies, and property of our townspeople, and strive to raise awareness and publicize evacuation procedures in the event of a nuclear disaster.
Nuclear disaster prevention drills will continue to be held jointly with the national government, Hokkaido Prefecture, and relevant local governments, incorporating more practical training items.
We will work with relevant agencies, including the national government, Hokkaido, and neighboring towns and villages, to implement nuclear disaster prevention measures to strengthen safety measures at Tomari Nuclear Power Plant and the local disaster prevention system, so that appropriate responses can be made in the event of an emergency.
(2) Enhancement of information infrastructure (planning environment, general affairs)
1.広報広聴活動の充実、コミュニティFMの推進
In order to promote the sharing of information, which is the basic principle of the Basic Ordinance for Town Development, we have been working to enhance the means of providing information such as public relations magazines, the town's official website, Facebook, Twitter, note, and LINE. In the 2023 fiscal year (FY2023), we started using the new SNS "Instagram".
We develop various public information public hearing activities while continuing business such as town development round-table conference, town development talk, hello (obanndesu) mayor's office, and adopting opinion in public information public hearing review meeting.
Radio Niseko is a community-based broadcasting station run by local residents. The town will continue to support Radio Niseko by providing training to employees and updating broadcasting equipment to improve its broadcasting system and ensure a sustainable operating structure.
In order to ensure the provision of disaster information in the event of a disaster, we will be installing a backup transmitting station on the roof of the town hall.
2. Efforts to introduce a social security and tax number system
The My Number system will be a social foundation to improve the efficiency of the social security and tax system and to realize a society that is highly convenient for the people. We will continue to carry out the necessary administrative procedures and operate the system appropriately in cooperation with related organizations such as the national government and Hokkaido.
3. Strengthening information security
In order to comply with the national (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications) requirements for strengthening information security for local governments, we have been operating a network for administrative tasks using personal numbers, a network for LGWAN connections, and a network for Internet connections, which have been completely separated since February 2017.
We will continue to systematically maintain and update equipment to strengthen security.
In order to promote the sharing of information, which is the basic principle of the Basic Ordinance for Town Development, we have been working to enhance the means of providing information such as public relations magazines, the town's official website, Facebook, Twitter, note, and LINE. In the 2023 fiscal year (FY2023), we started using the new SNS "Instagram".
We develop various public information public hearing activities while continuing business such as town development round-table conference, town development talk, hello (obanndesu) mayor's office, and adopting opinion in public information public hearing review meeting.
Radio Niseko is a community-based broadcasting station run by local residents. The town will continue to support Radio Niseko by providing training to employees and updating broadcasting equipment to improve its broadcasting system and ensure a sustainable operating structure.
In order to ensure the provision of disaster information in the event of a disaster, we will be installing a backup transmitting station on the roof of the town hall.
2. Efforts to introduce a social security and tax number system
The My Number system will be a social foundation to improve the efficiency of the social security and tax system and to realize a society that is highly convenient for the people. We will continue to carry out the necessary administrative procedures and operate the system appropriately in cooperation with related organizations such as the national government and Hokkaido.
3. Strengthening information security
In order to comply with the national (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications) requirements for strengthening information security for local governments, we have been operating a network for administrative tasks using personal numbers, a network for LGWAN connections, and a network for Internet connections, which have been completely separated since February 2017.
We will continue to systematically maintain and update equipment to strengthen security.
(3) Improvement of living environment and promotion of settlement (city construction, planning environment related)
1. Promotion of migration and settlement
According to population estimates based on data from the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, our town's population is expected to begin to decline after 2030. In order to promote more effective relocation and settlement measures, we will be promoting measures such as disseminating information with a focus on the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Article 50 of the Basic Town Development Ordinance states that "we will strive to utilize the wisdom and opinions of people from outside the town in town development," and we have been working to collaborate with people from outside the town who are interested in our town. We will continue to work to expand our "related population," deepen our interactions with people registered on our "Hometown Resident Certificate," and connect this to town development from a new perspective.
We will continue to recruit local revitalization cooperation volunteers and seek human resources who can proactively put their efforts into solving local issues. After they are recruited, we will dispatch them to related facilities and support them so that they can become independent after graduation and transition their efforts to solve local issues into independent activities. We will also assign village supporters to work on solving town development issues.
2. Policy for securing housing
In the town, private housing development is progressing, but the population and number of households are increasing faster than the construction of new housing, so there is still not enough housing being supplied. In order to resolve the housing mismatch and housing shortage, we will continue to implement a subsidy system for rental housing that promotes private apartment complexes. We will also work immediately to improve the water supply capacity to support these.
In public housing, we will carry out long-life composite improvement work on Central Housing Complex Building No. 5 based on the "Niseko Town Longevity Plan" and the "Niseko Town Basic Plan for Housing and Living."
According to population estimates based on data from the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, our town's population is expected to begin to decline after 2030. In order to promote more effective relocation and settlement measures, we will be promoting measures such as disseminating information with a focus on the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Article 50 of the Basic Town Development Ordinance states that "we will strive to utilize the wisdom and opinions of people from outside the town in town development," and we have been working to collaborate with people from outside the town who are interested in our town. We will continue to work to expand our "related population," deepen our interactions with people registered on our "Hometown Resident Certificate," and connect this to town development from a new perspective.
We will continue to recruit local revitalization cooperation volunteers and seek human resources who can proactively put their efforts into solving local issues. After they are recruited, we will dispatch them to related facilities and support them so that they can become independent after graduation and transition their efforts to solve local issues into independent activities. We will also assign village supporters to work on solving town development issues.
2. Policy for securing housing
In the town, private housing development is progressing, but the population and number of households are increasing faster than the construction of new housing, so there is still not enough housing being supplied. In order to resolve the housing mismatch and housing shortage, we will continue to implement a subsidy system for rental housing that promotes private apartment complexes. We will also work immediately to improve the water supply capacity to support these.
In public housing, we will carry out long-life composite improvement work on Central Housing Complex Building No. 5 based on the "Niseko Town Longevity Plan" and the "Niseko Town Basic Plan for Housing and Living."
(4) Improvement of road transportation network (city construction, townsman life relations)
1. Road maintenance
For the maintenance of town roads, we will carry out the commissioned work of "Improvement and Pavement Works on Town Road Motomachi Shisen-dori" (L = 480m) and "Detailed Design of Town Road Yakuba-mae-dori (L = 300m)".
Continuing from last year, we will carry out "Bridge Life Extension Inspection Outsourcing Service" (12 locations), as well as "Ogawa Bridge Repair Work Along Town Road Makkari River".
In addition, following on from the previous year, slope repair work will be carried out on the Kohanai Line forest road.
2. Road maintenance
Based on the "Niseko Town Road Maintenance Individual Facility Plan", we will strive for proper road maintenance and management while trying to utilize funds such as issuing bonds. In addition, road weeding, gutter cleaning, gravel road repair, and winter snow removal will be outsourced to private businesses.
We will continue to support snow removal assistance for community roads (private roads) and support projects for obtaining driver's licenses such as snow removal machines.
3. Traffic safety and crime prevention measures
All townspeople wish to live lives free of traffic accidents and crime. Aiming to create a safe and secure town, we work closely with the police and other relevant organizations, as well as with various groups, schools, and families to promote traffic safety activities and raise awareness of crime prevention. In particular, for road safety measures on school routes and other roads, in addition to street guidance by traffic safety instructors, we will continue to hold discussions with relevant organizations to develop traffic safety facilities such as signs and traffic lights.
In terms of installing traffic safety lights and crime prevention lights, we will provide environmentally friendly streetlights and continue to provide subsidies to each neighborhood association for installation costs and electricity fees (subsidy rate increased this year).
As a crime prevention measure, we will carry out educational campaigns to improve crime prevention awareness, and promote the development of a crime-free town.
For the maintenance of town roads, we will carry out the commissioned work of "Improvement and Pavement Works on Town Road Motomachi Shisen-dori" (L = 480m) and "Detailed Design of Town Road Yakuba-mae-dori (L = 300m)".
Continuing from last year, we will carry out "Bridge Life Extension Inspection Outsourcing Service" (12 locations), as well as "Ogawa Bridge Repair Work Along Town Road Makkari River".
In addition, following on from the previous year, slope repair work will be carried out on the Kohanai Line forest road.
2. Road maintenance
Based on the "Niseko Town Road Maintenance Individual Facility Plan", we will strive for proper road maintenance and management while trying to utilize funds such as issuing bonds. In addition, road weeding, gutter cleaning, gravel road repair, and winter snow removal will be outsourced to private businesses.
We will continue to support snow removal assistance for community roads (private roads) and support projects for obtaining driver's licenses such as snow removal machines.
3. Traffic safety and crime prevention measures
All townspeople wish to live lives free of traffic accidents and crime. Aiming to create a safe and secure town, we work closely with the police and other relevant organizations, as well as with various groups, schools, and families to promote traffic safety activities and raise awareness of crime prevention. In particular, for road safety measures on school routes and other roads, in addition to street guidance by traffic safety instructors, we will continue to hold discussions with relevant organizations to develop traffic safety facilities such as signs and traffic lights.
In terms of installing traffic safety lights and crime prevention lights, we will provide environmentally friendly streetlights and continue to provide subsidies to each neighborhood association for installation costs and electricity fees (subsidy rate increased this year).
As a crime prevention measure, we will carry out educational campaigns to improve crime prevention awareness, and promote the development of a crime-free town.
(5) Secure local transportation (planning environment, Board of Education)
In order to build a sustainable transportation system within Niseko Town, the "Niseko Town Regional Public Transportation Plan", which serves as a master plan for transportation policy, was formulated in March 2024. The basic philosophy of this plan is "Freedom of Movement into the Future", and it aims to create an environment in which not only the townspeople living in the town, but also tourists and related parties visiting the town can move as freely as possible.
Based on this plan, in fiscal year 2024, we will review the demand bus transportation system in the town, introduce a new digital demand system that utilizes DX (digital transformation) and AI, and consider increasing the number of services to improve convenience for townspeople and tourists. In addition, we will work with Kutchan Town to promote cashless route bus fares (Niseko Bus).
In response to the recent national initiative on ride sharing, which has been a hot topic, we will consider the possibility of introducing a Niseko Town version of ride sharing (Fukui District Mutual Aid Transportation), which is already being implemented in the Fukui district of the town.
The Niseko Model, a project to resolve taxi shortages implemented during the winter of 2023, demonstrated its effectiveness through demonstration results, and the company will continue and expand the project in 2024.
In preparation for the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen Sapporo, the section of "Nagamanbe ~ Otaru" after the abolition of the parallel conventional line will be 2022 (2022) At the Hokkaido Shinkansen Parallel Conventional Line Countermeasures Council Goshi Block Meeting in March, we confirmed the policy of using the "bus conversion method", and we are currently discussing it with private bus operators.
In the future, discussions will continue between the national government, Hokkaido Prefecture, and local governments along the line to ensure regional transportation that can adapt to future changes in the wide-area transportation system.
Regarding expressways, a planning evaluation was carried out last year for the "Ranboshi to Kutchan" section of the Hokkaido Trans-Ocean Expressway, and in March of this year it was decided to proceed with the project up to the Niseko Interchange. Going forward, we will continue to request the national government to promote investigations into the "Kuromatsunai to Rankoshi" section.
Based on this plan, in fiscal year 2024, we will review the demand bus transportation system in the town, introduce a new digital demand system that utilizes DX (digital transformation) and AI, and consider increasing the number of services to improve convenience for townspeople and tourists. In addition, we will work with Kutchan Town to promote cashless route bus fares (Niseko Bus).
In response to the recent national initiative on ride sharing, which has been a hot topic, we will consider the possibility of introducing a Niseko Town version of ride sharing (Fukui District Mutual Aid Transportation), which is already being implemented in the Fukui district of the town.
The Niseko Model, a project to resolve taxi shortages implemented during the winter of 2023, demonstrated its effectiveness through demonstration results, and the company will continue and expand the project in 2024.
In preparation for the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen Sapporo, the section of "Nagamanbe ~ Otaru" after the abolition of the parallel conventional line will be 2022 (2022) At the Hokkaido Shinkansen Parallel Conventional Line Countermeasures Council Goshi Block Meeting in March, we confirmed the policy of using the "bus conversion method", and we are currently discussing it with private bus operators.
In the future, discussions will continue between the national government, Hokkaido Prefecture, and local governments along the line to ensure regional transportation that can adapt to future changes in the wide-area transportation system.
Regarding expressways, a planning evaluation was carried out last year for the "Ranboshi to Kutchan" section of the Hokkaido Trans-Ocean Expressway, and in March of this year it was decided to proceed with the project up to the Niseko Interchange. Going forward, we will continue to request the national government to promote investigations into the "Kuromatsunai to Rankoshi" section.
(6) City planning (related to city construction)
Niseko Kira Kaido was developed in 2002, creating a unified streetscape. In order to maintain this streetscape, we are subsidizing the production costs of "protruding signs" for shop owners.
In the future, as the population ages, it is expected that vacant houses will be left unattended and the number of buildings that will be poorly managed will increase. We will promote preventive measures to consider and strengthen measures against vacant houses, such as removing abandoned and vacant houses that are obstructing the scenery of the town, and utilizing vacant villas.
In the future, as the population ages, it is expected that vacant houses will be left unattended and the number of buildings that will be poorly managed will increase. We will promote preventive measures to consider and strengthen measures against vacant houses, such as removing abandoned and vacant houses that are obstructing the scenery of the town, and utilizing vacant villas.
6 Creating a foundation for administrative and financial considerations for the future
(1) Promotion of self-government creation (related to planning environment)
In order to address the challenges we face as we enter a society with a declining population, we have formulated the "Niseko Town Comprehensive Strategy for Revitalizing Local Governments," which summarizes specific measures that should be prioritized based on the "Town, People, and Job Creation Act."
We will promote the development of industries that utilize local resources, an environment that allows for diverse working styles, the creation of a living environment where people can continue to live with peace of mind, and the expansion of the exchange and related population. In order to promote sustainable urban development, we will continue various collaborative projects with Niseko Machi Co., Ltd., increase the related population through corporate hometown tax donations, and consider measures such as the expansion of renewable energy.
We will promote the development of industries that utilize local resources, an environment that allows for diverse working styles, the creation of a living environment where people can continue to live with peace of mind, and the expansion of the exchange and related population. In order to promote sustainable urban development, we will continue various collaborative projects with Niseko Machi Co., Ltd., increase the related population through corporate hometown tax donations, and consider measures such as the expansion of renewable energy.
(2) Town development and strategic administrative and financial management based on a comprehensive plan (planning environment, general affairs, tax affairs, townspeople's life, city construction)
1. Implementation of the new comprehensive plan
The 5th Niseko Town Comprehensive Plan, which aims to make Niseko an "Environmentally Creative City," was formulated as a 12-year long-term plan and ended in 2023.
The new 6th Comprehensive Plan will start in April this year for the same 12-year period as Niseko Town 's top-level plan. The basic philosophy of the plan is "Niseko, a city where children and the future are co-created," and the following five basic goals will be set and implemented. The first is "protecting Niseko's natural environment," the second is "everyone learning from each other and connecting to the future," the third is "circulating Niseko's economy," the fourth is "improving the ease of living in a safe and secure environment," and the fifth is "creating a town of mutual assistance." Aiming to achieve these basic goals, the plan will be implemented in conjunction with the town's various individual plans.
2. Strategic administrative and financial management
We will promote appropriate administrative and financial management based on the national "Local Finance Plan" and the town's "Financial Plan." In order to support the local economy, it is necessary to consider and implement the most efficient and effective projects with limited financial resources while taking into consideration proactive administrative and financial management. In order to promote the efficiency of administrative operations, we will strive to improve operations efficiently while reviewing operations at any time. In addition, since securing independent financial resources is also an extremely important issue, we aim to introduce an accommodation tax in November of fiscal year 2024 as a special purpose tax to be allocated to tourism promotion and environmental measures.
In the Hometown Creation Donation initiative, we have been increasing the number of portal site contracts since 2021, and have been working to further enhance and strengthen our local products. In addition, we will strive to utilize the corporate version of the hometown tax donation system to secure business funding and build diverse collaborations and cooperative relationships with companies that sympathize with Niseko Town 's urban development.
3. Strengthening storage measures for town taxes, etc.
In recent years, our town has been able to establish a system to maintain a high town tax collection rate by promoting town tax collection measures, training employees, and improving the payment environment including smartphone apps. In addition, through tax assessment and collection work, we have accumulated perspectives and responses to quickly identify households that may be in financial difficulty and cooperate with related departments such as the welfare department.
In the future, we will further improve the knowledge we have gained through tax collection measures, and will also pass on our collection know-how to public funds other than taxes, such as usage fees and charges, and will begin to consider the possibility of centrally managing all public funds in the future.
In addition, changes in the way the world works, including digital transformation, require rapid response from administrative departments, especially those that handle public funds. For this reason, we will strive to strengthen our organizational capabilities and improve our knowledge so that we can quickly collect and respond to information with an eye to the future.
In addition, for the accommodation tax that is scheduled to be introduced from November 2024, we will provide detailed information on collection and reporting/payment procedures so that accommodation businesses, which will be special collection obligors, can respond smoothly, and we will do our utmost to alleviate businesses' concerns as much as possible before the tax is introduced.
4. Family register and Resident Certificate procedures
When handling notifications and certifications such as family register, address and seal registration, and affairs related to personal identification number cards (My Number Card), we will endeavor to protect personal information while carrying out appropriate procedures in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
To simplify procedures when moving in, we will utilize the "Transfer Reception Support System" introduced in March 2021 to shorten the time residents spend at the city hall. We are also working to improve convenience for residents by allowing them to use My Number Card to apply for Resident Certificate, seal certificates, and family register certificates at convenience stores and at the nearest city or town office.
In our human rights efforts, we respect fundamental human rights, which are the basic principles of the Japanese Constitution, and our human rights commissioners appointed by the Minister of Justice are taking the lead in holding human rights classes at elementary schools. We will strive to raise awareness of the importance of life and human rights protection while responding to diversifying and changing social conditions, such as discrimination due to the COVID-19 infection.
The National Pension Administration works in cooperation with the Pension Offices to ensure smooth administration regarding applications from insured persons and pension recipients, and the submission of various notification documents.
The 5th Niseko Town Comprehensive Plan, which aims to make Niseko an "Environmentally Creative City," was formulated as a 12-year long-term plan and ended in 2023.
The new 6th Comprehensive Plan will start in April this year for the same 12-year period as Niseko Town 's top-level plan. The basic philosophy of the plan is "Niseko, a city where children and the future are co-created," and the following five basic goals will be set and implemented. The first is "protecting Niseko's natural environment," the second is "everyone learning from each other and connecting to the future," the third is "circulating Niseko's economy," the fourth is "improving the ease of living in a safe and secure environment," and the fifth is "creating a town of mutual assistance." Aiming to achieve these basic goals, the plan will be implemented in conjunction with the town's various individual plans.
2. Strategic administrative and financial management
We will promote appropriate administrative and financial management based on the national "Local Finance Plan" and the town's "Financial Plan." In order to support the local economy, it is necessary to consider and implement the most efficient and effective projects with limited financial resources while taking into consideration proactive administrative and financial management. In order to promote the efficiency of administrative operations, we will strive to improve operations efficiently while reviewing operations at any time. In addition, since securing independent financial resources is also an extremely important issue, we aim to introduce an accommodation tax in November of fiscal year 2024 as a special purpose tax to be allocated to tourism promotion and environmental measures.
In the Hometown Creation Donation initiative, we have been increasing the number of portal site contracts since 2021, and have been working to further enhance and strengthen our local products. In addition, we will strive to utilize the corporate version of the hometown tax donation system to secure business funding and build diverse collaborations and cooperative relationships with companies that sympathize with Niseko Town 's urban development.
3. Strengthening storage measures for town taxes, etc.
In recent years, our town has been able to establish a system to maintain a high town tax collection rate by promoting town tax collection measures, training employees, and improving the payment environment including smartphone apps. In addition, through tax assessment and collection work, we have accumulated perspectives and responses to quickly identify households that may be in financial difficulty and cooperate with related departments such as the welfare department.
In the future, we will further improve the knowledge we have gained through tax collection measures, and will also pass on our collection know-how to public funds other than taxes, such as usage fees and charges, and will begin to consider the possibility of centrally managing all public funds in the future.
In addition, changes in the way the world works, including digital transformation, require rapid response from administrative departments, especially those that handle public funds. For this reason, we will strive to strengthen our organizational capabilities and improve our knowledge so that we can quickly collect and respond to information with an eye to the future.
In addition, for the accommodation tax that is scheduled to be introduced from November 2024, we will provide detailed information on collection and reporting/payment procedures so that accommodation businesses, which will be special collection obligors, can respond smoothly, and we will do our utmost to alleviate businesses' concerns as much as possible before the tax is introduced.
4. Family register and Resident Certificate procedures
When handling notifications and certifications such as family register, address and seal registration, and affairs related to personal identification number cards (My Number Card), we will endeavor to protect personal information while carrying out appropriate procedures in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
To simplify procedures when moving in, we will utilize the "Transfer Reception Support System" introduced in March 2021 to shorten the time residents spend at the city hall. We are also working to improve convenience for residents by allowing them to use My Number Card to apply for Resident Certificate, seal certificates, and family register certificates at convenience stores and at the nearest city or town office.
In our human rights efforts, we respect fundamental human rights, which are the basic principles of the Japanese Constitution, and our human rights commissioners appointed by the Minister of Justice are taking the lead in holding human rights classes at elementary schools. We will strive to raise awareness of the importance of life and human rights protection while responding to diversifying and changing social conditions, such as discrimination due to the COVID-19 infection.
The National Pension Administration works in cooperation with the Pension Offices to ensure smooth administration regarding applications from insured persons and pension recipients, and the submission of various notification documents.
(3) Systematic management of public facilities (general affairs, common to all agencies)
While public facilities constructed in the past are now due for renewal, the fiscal environment surrounding local governments remains severe. 2022 In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2013 (FY2022), a new "Comprehensive Management Plan for Public Facilities, etc." will be formulated, and based on this plan, efforts will continue to be made to renew, maintain, and manage public facilities and reduce the financial burden.
In addition, in promoting the plan, we will consider reducing the life cycle cost as well as reducing the burden on the environment. For this reason, based on the "4th Niseko Town Global Warming Countermeasures Action Plan (Administrative Business Edition)", each department will work together to continuously manage public facilities to reduce CO2 emissions.
In addition, in promoting the plan, we will consider reducing the life cycle cost as well as reducing the burden on the environment. For this reason, based on the "4th Niseko Town Global Warming Countermeasures Action Plan (Administrative Business Edition)", each department will work together to continuously manage public facilities to reduce CO2 emissions.
(4) Future town style (general affairs, planning environment)
At the Shirishi Regional Federation, tax arrears are sorted out, national health insurance, long-term care insurance, and administrative appeals boards are conducted. In addition, the Fourth Koshi Wide-Area Union Wide-Area Plan has been formulated with a five-year plan period from the 2022 degree (FY2022), and the town will cooperate with the relevant towns and villages to promote the smooth implementation and efficiency of wide-area paperwork.
Inquiries regarding information on this page
- Niseko Town Hall
- TEL:0136-44-2121
- FAX:0136-44-3500