COUNCIL ENDORSES COVID -19 SUPPORT PACKAGE
The City of Ryde has endorsed a new COVID -19 support package that will assist local residents.
businesses, sporting clubs and community groups that are adversely impacted by the ongoing Greater Sydney lockdown.
The extensive support package is similar to the one implemented last year and is designed to direct assistance to those who need it most. It also contains components which will help economic activity rebound once the lockdown lifts.
Highlights of the support package include.
• A one -off $400 rate r ebate for eligible ratepayers who receive a Commonwealth COVID -19 Disaster Payment, Small and Medium Business Support Payment or a Federal/State Grant for Micro Businesses • Eligible pensioners to receive a $50 one -off rate supplement against their domestic waste rates • Zero percent interest rate on overdue rates until 31 December 2021 • The waiving of more than 30 fees for small businesses and library members, including outdoor dining fees, cancellation fees and library overdue fees • Refunds to customers impacted by the current COVID -19 restrictions • Rental relief until 31 December 2021 to community and commercial hirers that demonstrate financial hardship (to be done on a case by case basis).
In addition to the support measures, Council endorsed the development of a new promotional campaign to promote the City of Ryde's town centres and support small businesses once lockdown measures ended.
"The current lockdown has hit us all hard. More than 18 months after the COVID -19 pandemic first emerged, we once again find businesses shut and our movements restricted to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community," City of Ryde Mayor, Clr Jerome Laxale, said.
"The COVID -19 support package that Council has endorsed will help those in our community who are currently doing it tough and help them navigate their way through the immense challenges that this lockdown has created.
"From residents to businesses as well as community groups and sporting clubs, the support package will help everyone that needs it.
"The promotional campaign that Council will also develop will help reinvigorate our town centres and small businesses, helping ensure that we can bounce back quickly from the seismic shock that this lockdown has c reated. "
As is required, the $400 rate rebate and $50 rate supplement will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days.
