The Shire of Murray has approved more than 20 new initiatives to help the community cope during the coronavirus crisis.
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Councillors called a special council meeting last week to vote on the comprehensive support program to combat the economic impacts of COVID-19.
As part of the commitment to business and community sustainability, rates, fees and charges - including waste and recycling charges - will be frozen for the 2020/21 financial year.
Shire president David Bolt said the program focused on supporting those in the community who had been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We are not only facing a health crisis, but an economic crisis as well and have already seen many retrenchments and stand downs and businesses downsizing and closing," he said.
"We need to protect the future of our Shire and will continue to do all we can to ease the plight of our community.
"In these times of isolation and hardship, we can be comforted by the strength and resilience of our community and we can get through this together."
We need to protect the future of our Shire and will continue to do all we can to ease the plight of our community.
- Shire of Murray president David Bolt
As part of the economic assistance program, the Shire will also be able to implement deferred payment plans and waive interest under $1,000 for those significantly affected.
Council supported full refunds on all cancelled bookings at Shire properties and facilities and will encourage projects that promote volunteering and community connections - from the arts to social programs.
There will be no salary increases for employees on fixed-term contracts until April 30, 2021 and no increase to councillors' allowances.
Inspection fees for small businesses have been waived until the end of the next financial year and planning fees will be waived for small and medium sized businesses until at least September 30.
A number of amendments have also been made to the Shire of Murray's Purchasing Policy to support local businesses and various payment options will be made available to debtors experiencing hardship.
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Leases and rental payments have been suspended until at least August 31 for non-government tenants occupying Shire properties.
In an effort to support not-for-profit organisations facing hardship, community grant schemes will also be reviewed for 2020/21 in collaboration with funding partners.
The Murray Aquatic and Leisure Centre will remain closed until September 30, with savings built into the Shire's budget to support relief efforts.
The move comes after neighbouring local government, the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, voted to approve their next financial budget with a 0 per cent rate increase at a special council meeting on April 6.
The Shire will also provide donations of up to $5000 to Serpentine Jarrahdale community groups and not-for-profit organisations responding directly to community need during the pandemic.
Businesses experiencing hardship and in need of support in the Shire of Murray should contact officers by calling 9531 7777 or emailing mailbag@murray.wa.gov.au.
