WAGGA council will provide some relief to those small businesses and property owners struggling in the fallout of the coronavirus crisis.
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It was the unanimous decision of the city's councillors to waive and reduce various fees and charges at Monday night's virtual meeting.
Wagga mayor Greg Conkey said the outcome was one way to provide relief to the business community during "really challenging economic times".
The areas where the majority of fees and charges amendments will be focused include the airport, Gregadoo Waste Management Centre, finance, environmental health and city development.
"It's across the board not just the small business impacted (on the main street), but the airport as well and areas of the council," Cr Conkey said.
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"We are also offering rate abatement because we have a number of rental properties around town."
Councillors also approved assistance for property holders experiencing hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon application, this support could involve removing interest on overdue rates and allowing people to enter payment plans.
Cr Conkey said the council was unable to abolish or cut rates due to state legislation, however it will work with community members who are struggling to find solutions.
"We are happy to speak to people who are impacted about payment plans and come up with options for their rates," he said.
Council officers are in the process of compiling a fact sheet to property holders that outline the assistance available to them.
Cr Conkey said the pandemic and the council's response will have a "major impact" on the council's finances.
"Wagga council overall is severely impacted by this virus. We won't know for quite some time but we will be taking a very hard hit," he said.
The amendments to certain fees and charges have been approved on a four-week basis, which started on March 31 until the end of the financial year.
- Those suffering acute, cold, flu-like symptoms who have recently returned from travelling or are a contact of a confirmed case are urged to be tested for the virus. To do this, call HealthDirect on 1800 0222 222 to be triaged and advised by a nurse over the phone. Alternatively, contact your GP to book an appointment and let them know in advance if you have symptoms - these might include fever, cough, runny nose or shortness of breath.
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