Toowoomba Regional Council has approved a raft of economic relief options, including a $125 rate concession for the majority of rateable properties throughout the Toowoomba region.
In addition to the rates concession, Mayor Paul Antonio said Council had agreed on some further options for the community, equating to more than $10.5 million in economic relief. “The Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted life around the world and added a new set of challenges for governments, businesses, families and the entire community,” Mayor Antonio said.
As part of the economic relief options, Council has approved measures including extending the Water Rates discount period from 12 May to 23 June 2020, and waiving interest on overdue rates and charges calculated at 30 June 2020. They will also postpone overdue rates and charges for the sale of land for the 2020 calendar year, extend animal registrations from 30 June to 30 September 2020, and provide a 100 per cent rent relief package for small businesses that occupy Council-owned properties for the months of April, May and June.
Additionally, Council will refund 50 per cent of the food licence fees for the 2019/20 financial year for fixed premises, refund 50 per cent of personal appearance retail licence fees for the 2019/20 financial year, provide free parking (at Council’s on and off-street parking) from 30 April 2020 to 30 June 2020 (time limits still apply and will be enforced by Council officers), waive credit card surcharges for all transactions at Council’s Service Centres and provide community groups, including sporting organisations, with grants for up to $499.
“It’s important to note, that this is a staged approach by Council, and we will continue to implement further initiatives as we move forward,” Cr Antonia said. Those who are eligible to receive these benefits are not required to apply to gain the relief, except for the sporting/community grants. More information will be provided on the grants in the coming weeks.
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