MOYNE Shire Council is considering how it can save residents and businesses collectively nearly $600,000 to help soften the economic blow from coronavirus shutdowns.
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A freeze on rates at current levels and waiving interest on overdue rate payments could be among the relief, Moyne Shire Council mayor Daniel Meade said.
Cr Meade said if the council was to keep rates at the same level, rather than adopting this year's statewide rate cap of two per cent, it would save ratepayers $420,000.
He said the council would also consider ceasing interest on overdue rates from March 31 this year, including the fourth installment due at the end of May.
The council could also halt increases to fees and charges for local residents next financial year, such as animal registrations, which it estimated would save residents around $100,000.
Businesses and community groups could also share in $50,000 in savings if the council waives rent for at least three months on its commercial leases.
Cr Meade said the council would consider prioritising works that engaged local tradespeople to offer around $500,000 worth of minor building and maintenance works.
He said the initiatives were a "starting point" and the council would still need to work through next year's budget in light of the expected economic hit.
He said the changes would be considered as part of preparation for its 2020-21 budget and decisions would be made before the end of April.
"We understand there will be a lot of people financially affected by what's happening," Cr Meade said.
"This week was the beginning of our budget submission and there will be many more meetings and discussions on the budget in coming months."
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