The Mayor of Kingborough, Cr Dean Winter is reassuring the community that Council is still operating and is adapting to the challenging situation the Coronavirus pandemic is presenting.
“This week, I called a meeting with Mayors of Hobart, Glenorchy and Clarence to discuss a unified response to the situation. From that meeting, we have agreed to take a number of interim support measures to our respective Councils which will help us deal with the immediate needs of our community,” Cr Winter said.
“In short, we are considering hardship support policies to waive penalties and interest on rates, support for local businesses and community groups, collaboration with other levels of government to sustain and continue our works programs; as well as rent relief and refunds on fees and charges on the basis of hardship.
“Councils will continue to provide essential services to our communities as best we can.
“The health and safety of our community and staff is our number one priority as we plan and respond to the rapidly changing circumstances.
“We have rolled out our business continuity plan and will keep our community updated with any changes to the way we deliver services.
“We are taking precautions to make sure we are minimising the spread of infection, and are providing a safe environment for our customers and staff. Currently we are distributing staff across multiple Council venues so that we are providing resilience in our teams.
“We are also encouraging our community to consider alternative ways to interact with Council to limit face to face contact. There are various ways to do this and our website has all the information.
“We will be streaming our council meetings online through Council’s Facebook page, and encourage people not to attend for your health and safety. Anyone can still continue to submit questions on notice through the normal channels.
“The impact of the Coronavirus will have a significant impact on us and we will keep the community informed every step of the way.
“I encourage people to consider your movements, make sure you are following the advice from the Departments of Health, and look after yourselves, family and friends. Please do not take your advice from unverified sources on social media. Now, more than ever, the community connection we value here in Tasmania is so important.”
Visit www.kingborough.tas.gov.au/coronavirus to keep informed about Council services.