Macedon Ranges Shire Council has resorted to drastic measures to recoup unpaid rates of more than 10 years on a residential Gisborne property.
As a last resort, the council has gained authority to sell or transfer the property at 103 Sheedy Road under Section 181 of the Local Government Act 2020.
John Hausler, council’s director of corporate and community, said a formal notice detailing the action was issued by solicitors to the property owner, 42 Melbourne Road Pty Ltd, earlier this year.
“Under Section 181 of the Local Government Act 2020 and council’s Debt Management Policy, council has the power to sell properties to recover unpaid rates,” Mr Hausler said.
“Council makes all reasonable efforts to resolve any issues regarding unpaid rates and properties are only sold as a last resort.”
The last time Macedon Range Council sold a property under Section 181 was in 2003.
The council could not comment on the explanation for unpaid rates or the total sum owing for privacy reasons but revealed rates had not paid on the property for more than 10 years.
The owner also failed to pay arrears and charges ordered by Bendigo Magistrates Court in February 2015.
“Rates and charges notices have been sent annually to the property owner as well as numerous arrears notices and default letters,” Mr Hausler said.
The sale or transfer is expected to take place on or after September 15.
“If the sale process proceeds, it will be up to the new owner to determine what becomes of the property,” Mr Hausler said.
“The unpaid rates will contribute to the income the council receives each year and will be utilised to provide services to the community.”
