THE District Council of Loxton Waikerie is set to postpone rates and fines for residents and businesses affected by the coronavirus crisis.
Many locals have lost their livelihoods or had their hours reduced due to the impact of COVID-19, leaving them in financial hardship.
Calls for more assistance for ratepayers in the area, both commercial and residential, have been heard by the council, who has moved to postpone the payment of rates and fines until the coronavirus situation settles.
“Obviously these things depend on individual circumstances,” said David Beaton, District Council of Loxton Waikerie CEO.
“But it’s just another way of assisting people who have been adversely affected, whether it’s their business or they’ve had to be stood down.”
Ratepayers experiencing hardship can apply to council to postpone payment of rates, and waive fines and interest on their primary production property by filling out an online form.
Resident and businesses will then be assessed based on eligibility and subsequently notified of the outcome of their application in writing.
Mr Beaton said the policy is scheduled for review in December, but that could be brought forward depending on the coronavirus.
In the event an application is denied, a review of the council’s decision may be requested.