The Town of Parry Sound is providing temporary relief for residents concerned about penalties and interest for taxes.
On Tuesday, Parry Sound town council passed a bylaw to allow relief for those impacted by COVID-19.
It implements that the penalty and interest on the 2020 interim tax bill, and water and sewer bills will be waived for three months ending on June 30th.
Additionally, transfers to taxes and the disconnection of water and sewer services on past-due accounts will be placed on hold between now and June 30th.
Non-sufficient funds (NSF) charges will also be waived for both property taxes and water and sewer accounts between those dates.
In a statement, Mayor Jamie McGarvey says they heard the concerns of residents loud and clear.
“These are unprecedented times,” the Mayor said. “We understand that many of our residents and businesses will be facing financial hardship due to COVID-19 and the tax and water and sewer billing relief is our way of recognizing the hardship and providing support for our community members.”
For those using the relief program, you’re reminded that notices will continue to be sent at regularly scheduled times and according to procedures.
This is a temporary measure for those who have lost income and are unable to make payments.
If you are able to make payments, you’re encouraged to do, so you do not incur additional charges at the end of the relief period.
Payment options for property taxes and water accounts during the temporary closure are available through online banking, at financial institutions – or by depositing a cheque into the drop box located at the front of the Town Office.
You can find more information on the town website.