The CEO of the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), Solomone Nata, has expressed concern about tenants who deliberately avoid paying their lease rents. He reported that some tenants are actively evading enforcement officers and allowing eviction notices to go unclaimed at the post office. This behavior has resulted in delays in landowners receiving their rightful payments, with some tenants reportedly maintaining outstanding debts for more than a decade.
Nata emphasized that the Board has initiated actions to evict tenants who fail to comply with eviction notices, underscoring the seriousness of lease payment obligations. He stated, “We don’t want to evict anybody, all we want is for you to come and pay,” highlighting the Board’s preference for resolution over eviction.
The ongoing situation is a continuation of TLTB’s efforts to collect overdue rents, which previously led to court orders being issued to disconnect water and electricity services for tenants in arrears. Currently, there are 248 cases in the courts related to tenants who have not met their payment obligations, with additional actions pending for many others.
In light of the substantial amounts owed—reported to be over $28.1 million from approximately 25,444 tenants—Nata maintains that TLTB is committed to providing tenants with opportunities to settle their debts through structured payment plans. He is urging tenants to communicate with the Board to resolve their financial obligations in a way that allows for mutual benefit and community stability.
The TLTB’s initiatives reflect an understanding of the financial strains both tenants and landowners are under, and the hope remains that constructive dialogue can lead to resolutions that sustain the livelihoods of landowners while securing housing for tenants. Engaging in open conversations about payment difficulties could help facilitate solutions that honor the rights and needs of all parties involved.
This proactive approach by TLTB signifies a dedication to fostering economic health in the community and the importance of fulfilling lease agreements for both tenants and landowners alike.
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