The Township of West Lincoln has given its residents some breathing room for tax and fee payments during the COVID-19 pandemic.

West Lincoln’s councillors passed this by-law along with a second at a special meeting last Tuesday.

The first by-law temporarily waives late fees, penalties, and fees and charges. It also implemented a business continuity plan to assist staff to continue to provide essential services to the community.

The following apply until May 31:

• A waiver of penalty for non-payment or late payment of taxes levied and charged in 2020;
• A waiver of penalty and any other associated fees for non-payment or late payment of water bills issued in 2020;
• A waiver of penalty on Accounts Receivable amounts past due;
• A waiver of NSF (non-sufficient funds) charges; and,
• Water services will not be disconnected for non-payment of the first quarterly water bills, which will be due on May 1st, 2020.

However, pre-authorized payments (PAP) for both property taxes and water will continue to be processed on their regular schedule unless residents contact the Township office by the following dates to cancel:

• By April 8, 2020 for monthly property tax PAP
• By April 23, 2020 for property tax and water PAP processed on due dates

The second bylaw allows for social distancing in the government by permiting councillors to participate in council and standing committee meetings electronically.