The Suva City Council (SCC) has reported a notable rise in taxpayers who are taking the initiative to settle their rate arrears or establish payment plans. Acting CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa expressed appreciation for this encouraging public response, following the council’s repeated appeals for timely payments.
While many taxpayers are starting to address their outstanding rates, Mr. Boseiwaqa acknowledged that the overall response has not yet significantly reduced the council’s total pending arrears. He noted that many ratepayers have recently flocked to the council office to discuss their situations, demonstrating their willingness to cooperate.
The council is emphasizing constructive dialogue and flexible payment arrangements to assist property owners in meeting their obligations, aiming to avoid the need for legal actions like court proceedings or property auctions. Mr. Boseiwaqa highlighted that while the council is prepared to employ legal measures if necessary, they prefer to exhaust all available options and understanding first.
The SCC is currently managing around 11,000 ratepayers, with an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 individuals currently in arrears. Consistent payments, both for current charges and outstanding debts, are crucial for the council to maintain the delivery of essential services to the community.
Mr. Boseiwaqa acknowledged that some ratepayers face genuine difficulties, including those who inherited properties with past arrears or who have encountered financial hardships due to unforeseen circumstances like early retirement. He emphasized that the council is committed to collaborating with ratepayers to find effective solutions, encouraging even installment payments as a beneficial approach for both parties involved.
In summary, the Suva City Council is experiencing an optimistic trend of increased taxpayer engagement in settling rate arrears. The council’s commitment to flexibility and cooperation could foster stronger community relations and enhance the council’s revenue for future service delivery.
This situation presents a hopeful outlook for the SCC and its ratepayers. By working together and understanding the unique challenges facing individuals, the council and the community may find a path to financial health and stability, setting a precedent for successful resolutions in the future.
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