The Nasinu Town Council is experiencing a positive turn around in the collection of rate arrears and is applauding the cooperation of ratepayers who have submitted their payments on time.
Nasinu special administrator, Mr Mosese Kama said collections for 2010 were better than previous years.
Through a string of measures that includes an amnesty period, the council managed to collected $1.9m in rate arrears in 2010.
“We have managed to reduce the overall arrears, ratepayers have responded well to our initiative such as amnesty, data credit bureau, notices, etcetera,” he said.
“Within the two months of amnesty, more than 500 ratepayers have personally called in to the office to settle their outstanding rates, and take advantage of the amnesty offered.”
Total arrears before the introduction of the amnesty was $8.2million.
“No arrangement of payment was made during the rates amnesty period because we encourage our ratepayers to settle their rates before December 31, 2010,” Mr Kama said.
“The council accepted any payment made by ratepayers during the period.”
Ratepayers are also being encouraged to settle their 2011 rates and capitalize on discounted rates which stands at 7 percent if the payment is made in January, 6 per cent in February and 5 per cent in March.
Mr Kama has also advised new property owners to update their postal address, telephone and email address with the council.
“Ratepayers intending to buy properties within the municipality are to please check with their legal adviser that settlement of rates should be made before any transfer of property takes place,” he said.
The total population within Nasinu Town Council averages 90,000 people.
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