THE Suva City Council (SCC) has observed an increase in taxpayers stepping forward to clear rate arrears or make arrangements for payment.
Acting CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa shared this development, expressing his gratitude for the positive public response to the council’s repeated calls for payment.
He said while many taxpayers had begun addressing their outstanding rates, the total response still fell short of what was required to reduce the council’s overall pending arrears significantly.
“It’s good to see that just last week ratepayers have been filling up the office, responding to our calls,” Mr Boseiwaqa said.
“If they have problems or hardships, they can come in, and we can discuss and arrange instalment payments.”
He said it was important to foster cooperation between the council and taxpayers.
Mr Boseiwaqa said the council was prioritising dialogue and flexible payment options to help property owners fulfil their obligations — without the council having to resort to legal measures, such as court actions or property mortgaging.
“But it doesn’t mean that we are not going there, we will, after exhausting all these opportunities given.
“There are different reasons why they’re not paying.”
Mr Boseiwaqa said the council was dealing with about 11,000 ratepayers, with an estimated 4000 to 5000 in arrears.
He stressed that consistent payments, both for current rates and outstanding amounts would provide sufficient revenue for the council to continue delivering essential services.
“Some ratepayers have genuine reasons for falling behind.
“Some acquired properties with existing arrears, while others are facing financial difficulties such as early retirement, which disrupted their plans.
“For instance, many planned to retire at 60, but early retirement at 55 has derailed their financial strategies.”
Despite these challenges, Mr Boseiwaqa said the council remained committed to working with ratepayers to find viable solutions.
He reiterated that the primary goal was to ensure payments are made, even in instalments, as this approach benefits both the council and ratepayers.
