The City of Canning said it will consider a rate freeze after local governments were encouraged to do so amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
With more local businesses and families struggling financially during the health crisis, more local governments are responding by helping out ratepayers.
City of Canning will be considering a freeze on rates and charges as part of its 2020/2021 annual budget.
A City of Canning spokesperson said the annual budget was planned to be a unique response to the current social and economic conditions.
“It will potentially include several provisions aimed at providing financial relief for ratepayers, which will be outlined in a report in April’s council meeting,” he said.
“Currently the city’s 2019-2020 annual budget is being amended to include our immediate response plans for coronavirus including fee waivers for business, a consideration of existing lease arrangements and a new financial hardship policy.
“Rates, fees, charges, capital works all form part of the city’s immediate response and the economic recovery for our community.”
The city has 70 tenants on council property, and 17 of these are businesses.
A report has been prepared for the April council meeting to consider granting temporary rent concessions for tenants of council owned property.
