The Nasinu Town Council has reported positive developments in its debt recovery efforts after engaging in consultations with ratepayers.
Council chairperson Felix Magnus highlighted that the outstanding debt from ratepayers initially totaled $14 million, which has now been reduced to $12 million. To facilitate the recovery process, the council established a dedicated debt recovery unit about a month ago.
Magnus noted that the council has already observed significant changes in ratepayer behavior, with more individuals coming forward to make payments and establish payment plans. He attributed the earlier high debt figure to a disconnect between the council and ratepayers, as well as insufficient monitoring and communication.
With the implementation of a consultative approach, the council has successfully decreased the debt from $14 million to $12 million. Magnus expressed optimism that the upcoming months will show a continuous decline in the arrears, encouraging more ratepayers to address their outstanding debts.