Changes to Payment Options: BVSC

July 25, 2007: Bega Valley Shire Council has lifted its credit card limit so people can pay their rates in one instalment.

Numerous approaches had been made to Council to lift the $1500 limit because it created difficulties with a one-off credit card payment.

Council’s Corporate and Community Services Director Leanne Barnes said the limit was frustrating for customers and staff.

“With people looking at a range of avenues to pay rates, the $1500 limit was posing problems for those residents who wanted to make a one-off payment on their credit card. This has now been rectified,” Ms Barnes said.

The new changes will also see Council pass on the credit card charges to customers.
“This is becoming more and more of a business practice and it is required by Council to continue to balance its budget,” Ms Barnes said.

“The credit card payment option has proved to be increasingly popular and is reflected in the steady rise in credit card fees paid by Council to financial institutions and payment agencies over recent years including $57,600 in 2004/2005, $64,501 in 2005/2006 and an estimated $60,000 in 2006/2007.

“It is anticipated the recent closure of administration services at branch offices will also increase the volume of credit card transactions.”

Ms Barnes said the introduction of fees would ensure a source of revenue included in the 2007/08 operational plan and budget was met.

“If we did not offset the fees, there would be a need to further explore service level reductions,” Ms Barnes said.

The new changes will be advertised for public comment shortly, with the implementation set for October 1, 2007 pending feedback.