By Michaela Meade
Support for the community is at the forefront of Melton council’s COVID-19 recovery plan, with the council set to lose over $500,000 in income.
The 2021-22 Fees and Charges Waivers and Reductions report was adopted by council at last week’s meeting, and highlighted council’s commitment to providing ongoing support to the municipality.
According to the report, council will have an estimated loss of income of $527,236 as a result of reducing and waiving fees and charges for residents and services.
Council finance manager Sam Rumoro said the report reflected the dedication of council to Melton’s recovery from the pandemic.
“In response to the ongoing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, Melton City Council has been working to ensure ongoing support is provided to our community through continuing changes to service delivery, and financial support to our residents and businesses,” Mr Rumoro said.
“[The changes] provide further support to businesses, community groups and individuals most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the food and hospitality industry, the business network, community sporting groups and… ratepayers in general.”
As part of the recovery plan, all penalty interest on rates will continue to be ceased, equating to a further loss of $65,000 per month.
Mayor Kathy Majdlik commended the council for putting “extra relief” for the community on the agenda.
“We know that they are doing it extremely tough during this COVID period,” Cr Majdlik said.
“It’s just another great way that Melton City Council is assisting them in any way that we can to alleviate some of that stress from this pandemic.”
The council will also reduce food act and health registrations fees by 50 per cent.
Sporting groups property hire fees, Venture Melton Business Network membership fees, Western Business Accelerator and Centre of Excellence maintenance fees, library fees (overdue fines), and permit application fees associated with outdoor dining applications will all be waived entirel
