Applications to open for rates relief

People whose homes or livelihoods were affected by June’s heavy rainfall will be able to apply for assistance from Horizons Regional Council’s rates relief fund from 1 September 2015.

A total of $100,000 has been set aside to help those most seriously impacted, defined by Council as: people evacuated and unable to return to their homes for a minimum three month period and those with income-generating properties that have been unable to generate income for three months or more as a result of rainfall and flooding.

Horizons chairman Bruce Gordon says a number of homes, businesses and properties were damaged by June’s heavy rainfall and the rates relief fund recognises that paying rates on top of this hardship will be a struggle for some.

“If you have been adversely affected and meet the criteria outlined I strongly encourage you to get in touch with details of your situation,” Mr Gordon says.

“As a Council we will carefully consider all of the applications received and encourage you to provide as much information and evidence as you can to help with this assessment.”

Applications close 30 September 2015 and although this is outside the payment without penalty deadline of 25 September, applicants will not be penalised.

The onus is on the ratepayer to demonstrate they meet the eligibility criteria and applications should be forwarded to:

Attn: Kathie Robinson
Rates Relief Fund
Private Bag 11025
Manawatu Mail Centre
Palmerston North 4442

Or sent via email to rates@horizons.govt.nz

Eligibility criteria is as follows, with more information available via Horizons’ website www.horizons.govt.nz

1. The application must relate to a property within the Horizons Region.
2. The requirement for remissions is sought for a situation of financial hardship caused by the June 2015 storm event.
3. Any rates relief will be assessed in the 2015-16 financial year.
4. Each application will be assessed on its own merits by Council.
5. Council staff may need to check eligibility by visiting properties.
6. Applicants need to declare if they have received financial or other assistance from organisations and the amount granted such as:
• Disaster Relief Fund;
• Mayoral Relief Fund;
• Insurance Companies;
• Funding from any other organisation.

ENDS

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