February 20, 2019
Toowoomba councillors have voted unanimously to extend the deferral of rate notice payments for eligible primary producers who are experiencing severe drought conditions.
Mayor Paul Antonio said Council had no hesitation in extending the decision that was introduced in August last year to offer some financial relief to the region’s eligible producers.
“A hot and dry summer has compounded many producers’ immediate outlook and Council is well aware of the ongoing financial and emotional strains that exist across these communities,” Mayor Antonio said.
“The Toowoomba Region has been drought-declared for more than four years and unfortunately the short-term outlook does not offer the prospect of any substantial rain or a financial return for farming enterprises.”
Finance Committee chairman Cr Mike Williams echoed the Mayor’s comments and said Council had a history of responding to residents who had experienced adversity due to extreme climatic conditions.
“This decision also means eligible residents are still able to receive their discount which normally only applies when a Rate Notice is paid within the first 31 days,” Cr Williams said.
