Rates deferral policy endorsed
GORE District councillors have unanimously endorsed the Covid19 shortterm rates deferral policy.
It was designed to offer immediate relief for those ratepayers who had found themselves in financial difficulty.
Chief executive Stephen Parry said the policy was aimed at providing a sixmonth breather or holiday to tide ratepayers over until there was a less restrictive economic environment.
‘‘Ratepayers benefitting under this policy will still need to pay their allotted rates, but not right now.’’
The policy gives all ratepayers the opportunity to defer their next two rates payments, providing they are not in arrears for their rates payments as at July 1, 2019.
Invercargill City councillors will also consider financial relief for ratepayers with a special rates postponement scheme early next week.
At the first committeeofcouncil meeting, to be held on
Tuesday, April 28, councillors will discuss and consider the draft rates postponement remission policy, which includes the special rates postponement scheme.
Mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt said city councillors were united in their focus on the welfare of every member of the Invercargill community.
‘‘Council must continue to maintain financial prudence, while stimulating the city’s economy as we look to recover from Covid19.
‘‘This is why we asked council staff to consider ways to help ratepayers financially during this time, if they need it.’’