Cumberland City Council has called for a stimulus package, aimed at supporting local councils and ensuring economic activity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With the closure of many non-essential services, our Council is wearing a major economic impact from the Coronavirus crisis, and we know we’ve got a problem that needs to be solved,” said Mayor Steve Christou.
“We estimate that the impact of Coronavirus will cost Cumberland City Council at least $15 million this year in lost revenue.
“Council’s funding model relies on rates (around 50 per cent) but also on other sources like grants, investments and user fees for property leasing and fees that come from parking, hall and park hire.
“We service approximately 240,000 residents and we, like many Councils, have had to suspend a number of events and services in order to help contain the spread of COVID-19 and keep our residents safe.
“Local councils are on the frontline when it comes to delivering services to residents. Without financial assistance, it’s going to delay our recovery and this may delay the delivery and renewal of public infrastructure.
“We want to keep delivering for our local community. We believe a stimulus package or a low-interest loan through the NSW Government’s TCorp function could be a way to lessen some of the economic impact on our council.
“It would certainly help us ensure that work we’ve got underway keeps moving and support jobs and the local economy as well.”
Cumberland City Council has written to the Federal and State Government making them aware of Council’s financial situation.
Background:
To view correspondence from Cumberland City Council on this matter visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/covid19-stimulus-request
