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Emergency Orders Issued Designed To Assist, Not Distress

Residents in bushfire affected are currently receiving Emergency Orders from Latrobe City Council regarding the demolition and clean up of fire affected properties.

By Latrobe City - 19th March 2009 - Back to News

Latrobe City Council Mayor Cr Lisa Price said that the Emergency Orders are intended to streamline the recovery process.

"The Emergency Orders have been sent to residents as a way of streamlining the demolition and clean up process. Residents who have received an Emergency Order are exempt from having to apply for a permit to demolish the remains of their home or other property buildings.

"Council is aware that some members of the community are confused as to the intention of this Order and that this confusion has led to some residents feeling anxious.

"I would like to reassure residents that this was not the intention and that Council was trying to streamline the recovery process by removing the need for resident to apply for a demolition permit," said Cr Price.

"The Emergency Order may further assist residents who are processing an insurance claim, as many insurance agencies will not proceed with the claim process until this Order has been received.

"This is a statutory requirement under the building code and residents should be aware that if they feel concerned they should contact the staff in the Building Services Team on 1300 367 700."

Cr Price said that she was worried that some residents had become distressed.

"On behalf of Council I would like to extend our apologies. Council staff are working hard to assist residents, not further burden them with bureaucratic red tape.

"I would like to reassure the community that our intention is to provide as much support as is possible and I ask that any resident who has concerns regarding either the recovery process or the Emergency Orders to make contact with either the Building Services Team or the Recovery Offices throughout the municipality.

"The Offices have been established to support residents and can assist you in answering any questions that you may have."

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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