South Taranaki Mayor Phil Nixon says the council's annual plan includes immediate and longer-term measures to assist economic recovery from the impact of Covid-19. Photo / Supplied
South Taranaki District Council's plans to relieve the Covid-19 financial burden on ratepayers include a zero rate increase for 2020-21.
The council has released its annual plan for the next financial year, with South Taranaki Mayor Phil Nixon saying that, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the focus for the next
year will be on ways it can support the community through the recovery and undertake activities to stimulate economic growth using, where possible, local businesses and contractors.
"This annual plan proposes a range of measures aimed at bringing relief to residents and businesses, some of which can be actioned immediately while others are more long term and will require additional planning before being implemented," Nixon said.
"Following the council's long-term plan, rates were projected to increase by around 3.36 per cent. However, given the financial burden Covid-19 will place on many families and businesses we are proposing to have a zero per cent rate rise.
"In addition, the council is proposing a freeze on fees and charges and is offering payment plans and remission of rate penalties for those experiencing financial hardship."
