The policy was put in place in April 2020 to support the community when the coronavirus pandemic was having serious financial implications for local individuals and businesses.
The main elements of the policy allow ratepayers to defer rate payments, while interest charges on late payments were suspended.
Part of the policy document encourages ratepayers to arrange a payment plan, if possible, to ensure outstanding fees and charges can be paid in a reasonable timeframe.
Ryan questions emergency powers extension
After the council passed the extension unanimously, several councillors spoke on the matter.
Cr Don Firth acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic had been hard on a lot of people.
“I think Benalla . . . has dodged some of the worse parts of COVID,” Cr Firth said.
“But it's important for council to be seen as doing something. It has cost us money but it's what we should be doing.”
Cr Peter Davis said it was great that the policy had been extended.
Former Benalla Saints clubrooms to be demolished
“We were aware that there's people who weren't affected very deeply, then there's people who had to shut down their businesses.
“So it's encouraging that we can do our little bit for the community.”
Cr Justin King thanked the previous council for its work in creating the policy.
“Every level of government is doing (its) part, and it's great to see that Benalla council is doing (its) part too.”
The policy undergoes regular reviews, with the next being in July. It has already been extended twice.
If you would like to send a letter to the editor on this, or any subject, click this link
21°C