Greater Hume Council COVID-19 response: commercial premises rent relief on cards

Councillors will come together on Wednesday in a meeting closed to the public to consider the rent relief for council-owned premises for the period of April 1 to June 30, as proposed by general manager Steven Pinnuck.

Mr Pinnuck has also proposed waiving interest on outstanding rates and charges for the same period, but has stopped short of scratching all rates.

"It is management's view that it is not financially sustainable to waive rates and charges as waiving the general rates for just one quarter would cost council $2.2 million in revenue," he wrote in his report.

"Equally it is not recommended that council take up less than the 2.6 per cent rate pegging increase.

"Management is acutely aware of the impacts that the coronavirus (COVID-19) is having on the wider economy.

"Greater Hume Council is not immune from these impacts; both with the loss of direct employment and downturn in business activity, particularly hospitality related businesses.

"It is difficult to quantify the likely cost to Council of the pandemic through waiving of fees and reduced revenue streams at this point, but is likely to be several hundred thousand dollars over the next six months."

The rent relief is estimated to provide relief for two businesses, at a cost to council of $9300.

The council has received several requests for assistance from lessees of its commercial premises, registered clubs and sports committees.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Council has already put processes in place for water bill payment options, and paused any debt recovery action on outstanding rates and charges.

The recruitment of a Grants Administration Officer, a role council recently resolved to create, has also been suspended until further notice.

A report on the impact of COVID-19 will be submitted to each monthly meeting.