Mayor Margaret Thomas said like communities across Australia, the City of Kalamunda has been preparing itself for trying and challenging days to come. “In these uncertain times, we all have important roles to play in limiting the spread of COVID-19 to protect ourselves and our fellow community members,” Cr Thomas said.

“On Tuesday evening, City CEO Rhonda Hardy briefed Council on its rapid response to the crisis at a community level and we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure the best outcome for our community in the months to come.

“These measures include the immediate suspension of the City’s debt collection process for outstanding rates until further notice; consideration of hardship cases for debtors and creditor payment terms reduced from monthly to fortnightly to assist suppliers with their cash flow. The City will review the situation over the next four-weeks and extend where necessary.”

Also, the City has prepared a Local COVID-19 Preparedness Plan providing a clear pathway to assist and support local people and businesses.

Additionally, Mayor Thomas said Council will explore ways to assist ratepayers and the community manage over the coming months including but not limited to; implementing a freeze on Council rates and charges; suspension of lease and rental payments for a month to all City tenants leasing city-owned property (to be reviewed by 30 April 2020 and potentially extended); full refund on all cancelled bookings at City properties or facilities; free and express treatment of small business Development Applications and Change of Land Use applications to help small businesses adapt to changing circumstances and food inspection fees etc. being cancelled for three months.

Outcomes regarding these suggested measures will be communicated to residents following Council assessment at a Special Council Meeting next month.

While City facility closures came into effect earlier this week, residents are encouraged to contact the Administration Centre on 9257 9999 or via email to enquiries@kalamunda.wa.gov.au. Residents can also complete most business transactions and payments online via the City's online services & payments section of the website.