Darwin council to discuss rates, rent relief at special meeting next Wednesday

RATEPAYERS could receive rent relief and see a deferral in rates from Darwin council, with an emergency meeting to discuss community coronavirus relief to be held on Wednesday April 8.

Ratepayers could recieve rent relief and see a deferral in rates from Darwin council, with an emergency meeting to discuss community coronavirus relief to be held on Wednesday, April 8. Pictured is Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis, who raised the motion. Picture: Che Chorley

RATEPAYERS could receive rent relief and see a deferral in rates from Darwin council, with an emergency meeting to discuss community coronavirus relief to be held on Wednesday, April 8.

It comes after Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis suggested deferring rates, which were due on Tuesday March 31, and waiving permits, fees and levies until June 30.

However, with the suggestion only brought to council on Monday, elected members argued it was too soon for council to make such a big decision, which could add a $55 million debt to council coffers.

“While this pandemic could be the worst thing our city has seen in over 100 years, it’s too early to compare it to the Bombing of Darwin or Cyclone Tracy,” Alderman Justine Glover said.

“As council we have a responsibility to look to the future, we cannot burden members of community if we burden our council with $55 million debt.”

However, alderman Paul Arnold said some businesses might not survive if action was delayed.

“Small businesses won’t last three months, it’s that bad. I believe this will go some way to assisting - it’s short term right now and it’s for the mental and emotional stability,” he said.

“It’s another bill we don’t have to pay right now. Council has to bear some of the burden.”

Council chief executive Scott Waters said it was important for council to bring all stimulus to council together.

“We are planning for up to six months, we are hoping it will be a lot quicker in the NT. It’s a big if (though),” he said.

The decision, along with an economic stimulus package and community grants program in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and two confidential items discussing rent relief and artists assistance, have been postponed and will be discussed at next week’s meeting.

Residents’ following rates will be due at the end of September.