The City of Cockburn has adopted a financial relief package, including a freeze on rate increases, to support its residents and businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
A motion was passed at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Thursday, 9 April 2020 to approve the package for inclusion in next year’s budget. The measures include:
- A zero percentage average increase to rates next year
- Freezing of all City determined fees and charges at 2019/2020 levels
- Eliminating instalment and penalty interest on rates as well as other associated fees and charges
- Removing the mandatory waste service levy from those commercial/industrial properties not using the City’s waste service
- A Sporting Clubs COVID Support Package – Stage 2, to provide short term hire fee relief or reduction for when the City’s facilities reopen
- Providing options for rent relief to tenants of City-owned or controlled premises, commensurate with demonstrated COVID-19 impacts
- Penalty interest and other charges on outstanding rates have also been cancelled for the remainder of this financial year.
Mayor Logan Howlett said that the City was committed to supporting its residents who had been affected financially by COVID-19.
“We know many of our local businesses and residents have been hit hard financially during this incredibly difficult time. This package is designed to provide relief to those people, working in tandem with Federal and State stimulus bills,” Mayor Howlett said.
“It is important to note that this is only a first step and we will be looking to do more in the future.
“We are being as flexible as possible with our finances. I would encourage people and businesses who need relief to contact the City. We are happy to work with you to develop arrangements that suit your current financial position.”