Quinte West approves fee changes during COVID-19

Quinte West has approved a list of changes, including tax payment delays and free city busing during the Covid-19 emergency lock down.

At a special meeting of city council Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Jim Harrison had this message, “Many people are afraid…Yes, we are going to get through this.”

City council, with a number of members attending electronically, approved a list of items recommended by staff.

They include waiving any new interest charges on property taxes, delaying water and wastewater billings until July.

Also: Final installment date moved to August and October

          First bag of garbage curbside pickup free until end of April

          No ticket needed for riding the city bus during the month of April

Councillor Don Kuntze suggested two free garbage bags.

Councillor Terry Cassidy argued for one free bag, pointing out that children are at home from school and they will support recycling and less garbage.

Council also decided to waive some administrative-type fees relating to property taxes and water and wastewater.

Mayor Harrison commended city staff for keeping the city functioning during COVID-19.

Deputy Mayor Jim Alyea said the city’s planning process is going ahead

Councillor Karen Sharpe asked that the the public be informed about the changes as soon as possible.

Staff assured council the information would be going out to the public as soon as possible, following the meeting.

Before the end of the meeting, councillors had words of encouragement for residents of the city.

Councillor Sally Freeman, “There is fear in the community…Stay six feet apart, don’t be shy, demand your space.”

Councillor Dave McCue said, “The life you save may be your own.”

Council approved all changes.

When asked about when or if the city should declare an emergency, CEO Charlie Murphy indicated officials don’t think it is necessary yet.
Murphy added he is in regular touch with Fire Chief John Whalen and other city staff regarding the issue.