A proposed $1.1 million package to get Macedon Ranges Shire on its feet after the pandemic crisis will include such initiatives as fee waivers and a boost to grants funding.
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The community and business recovery fund is the centrepiece of Macedon Ranges Shire Council's proposed 2020-21 budget.
Under the package, the council will coordinate a pandemic working group and resource a recovery operations centre, to support organisations providing emergency relief to a growing number of people.
The council proposes to help the shire's businesses through a support enquiry service and a confidential assistance program that provides access to counselling.
There will also be programs around skills development, connections to industry experts, ideas forums, a 'buy local' campaign, and streamlining business permit processes.
Some business permit renewal fees will be waivered or reduced, and late fees on overdue rates, charges and animal registrations will not apply until September 30.
Under the recovery fund, the council will provide more funding for existing grant programs, and bring forward actions from its strategies that specifically help the shire recover from the COVID-19 crisis.
It also includes a dedicated fund for infrastructure to benefit visitors to bushland reserves, and the council will work with organisations to help where COVID-19 has affected the work of volunteers, and those they support.
"This additional package for the community and business sectors will support our shire during the difficult times ahead," mayor Janet Pearce said.
The draft budget report will go on display for public comment for four weeks starting Tuesday, June 2.
It will be available online at the council's website.
