Shire of Ashburton Council to consider COVID-19 relief package

Waiving lease payments, reducing fees and charges and allocating funds to a COVID-19 Reserve are all on the agenda for Council to consider as part of a relief and rebound plan by the Shire of Ashburton.

Shire President Kerry White advised that Council would be considering a number of options to offer relief to the local community at the upcoming Ordinary Meeting of Council on 14 April.

“Currently Shire of Ashburton staff are working on a series of models to form next year’s budget and taking into account ways in which the Shire can assist the community in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic”, said Councillor White.

“Some of the options being considered include rating levels, reductions in interest rates on payment plans, deferring the collection of rates for a number of months and greater accessibility of special payment arrangements and concessions.

“Council will also be considering how we can support our sporting groups and local community organisations whether it be through grants or a reduction in lease fees once we come through the other side of this challenging time.

“The Shire is also offering full refunds for the cancellation of booking and hire fees, licences and memberships where applicable.

“We understand this is a stressful time for individuals and want to ease any financial implications and hardship that may develop in light of job losses, reduced operating and trading hours for businesses and further disruptions to everyday life.

“I am also encouraging our community to support those local businesses that are still in operation.

“We have seen great examples of local businesses altering their business model and delivering safe services to be adhere to the restrictions in place.

“All local businesses that are still operating, even in a reduced capacity are invited to register on the Shire’s online business directory under a specific ‘Open during COVID-19’ category so that our community is aware and able to show them support.

“I would also like to mention that we continue to be kind and demonstrate our great sense of community spirit that I often reference.

“Ashburton has a strong, vibrant and connected community and I urge all of our community members to consider those who may need assistance in the coming weeks”.

“Stay up to date on COVID-19 on our website, www.ashburton.wa.gov.au/services/environmental-health/coronavirus-disease-covid19-information and through Facebook by following both Shire of Ashburton page and Ashburton Community COVID-19 Info page.

More news articles