By Luke Voogt
A Geelong trader has welcomed council’s decision to waive rates for an estimated 130 local businesses forced to close as a result of the state government’s coronavirus directions.
During Tuesday night’s meeting, council voted to waive rates for the businesses from April 1 to June 30, at a cost of about $262,000.
“It’s very pleasing and welcome news,” said Timezone owner Sebastian Loader.
“My rates are a significant expense every year. We’re really happy with any and all dollars that the three levels of government can provide in stimulus and relief.”
Mr Loader said his business was one of the first in Geelong to close, on March 18, during the pandemic.
“Because of the risk, we took it upon ourselves to close. We really hope people will support local businesses when this is all finished.”
The rate relief will go toward businesses including gyms, cinemas, function centres and night clubs, according to council.
“Many small businesses are no longer trading through no fault of their own and are doing it tough,” Brownbill ward councillor Eddy Kontelj said.
“Many are at desperation stage and they are pleading for our support.
“They are finding themselves financially stressed and mentally fatigued, which is why we need to immediately ease the financial burden on them.”
Council has also endorsed $283,907 in financial support to 1482 businesses that pay the Central Geelong Special Rate.
The special rate raises $1.13 million each year for programs in central Geelong that deliver $20 million of total economic output annually, according to council.
At about $556,000 combined, the two measures bring council’s coronavirus support measures to $5.45 million.
The measures are part of council’s proposed 2019-20 budget. Council also adopted a four-year plan including key priorities such as developing community infrastructure, renewing street shopping strips and establishing a food distribution centre in North Geelong.
A sustainability framework, programs and facilities for gender equality in sport, a shared trails masterplan and redeveloping Geelong Gallery and the Potato Shed were also listed as priorities.
“The proposed budget and council plan set out a carefully considered roadmap to drive the region’s recovery from COVID-19,” Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said.
