Stimulus package to lessen impact TCC to waive range of fees
RATES will be deferred, parking will become free in the CBD and other fees and charges will be waived under a multimillion-dollar Townsville City Council plan to support residents and businesses in the midst of the coronavirus crisis.
The council’s stimulus package is still being finalised, so a final dollar figure is unknown, but the measures will include deferring rates, making parking free in the CBD, and providing rent relief on commercial leases.
The measures will be scheduled to expire on June 30, though the date will be reviewed as the Federal and State governments provide more updates on the unfolding situation.
Hotel and motel who will suffer as owners, tourism plummets due to event cancellation, will also be provided relief through the deferral of pedestal charges, better known as the “toilet tax”, which last year raised $24.2 million for the council.
Fees and charges for sporting clubs and associations will be deferred as a measure to combat falling registration numbers or the impact of more bans on gatherings if that were to occur.
Development application fees and infrastructure charges for shovel-ready projects could be reduced.
The council will also refund venue charges for cancelled events, fix alfresco dining fees and temporary food stall fees to $0.
Full details of the package will be released once finalised, and it is understood Mayor Jenny Hill ( pictured) may have to call a special meeting of the council to pass some of the measures while it remains in caretaker mode.
“This a multimillion-dollar package which will help alleviate some of the pressure being experienced by our community as we handle the economic impacts of COVID-19,” Cr Hill said.
“First and foremost, council’s priority is the health and safety of our residents and we are also looking at how we can support our economy.
“These are uncertain times and these are important measures to provide assistance to the community.”
Authorised by: Greg Dowling, 104 Flinders Street, Townsville QLD 4810