A former Perth and Kinross councillor has urged the current administration to reconsider its stance on deferring council tax payments amid the coronavirus pandemic.
John Kellas, formerly an SNP councillor for the Strathtay ward, believes allowing Perth and Kinross residents should have the option to not pay their council tax for April and May, but instead pay it in February and March next year.
Mr Kellas says deferring the payments until February and March, when council tax is not normally paid, would offer many residents financial "respite".
He said: "The council could defer it for two months, which would give people respite. People need this respite.
"It is a difficult time financially, especially for the next two months, but there is an added pressure from the council."
He added: "At the end of the financial year, the council would have the same amount of money.
"Some English councils are doing this so why can't we do it here?
"This is something which I think could definitely happen."
But the council says there are options available to assist people struggling financially during this time.
A Perth and Kinross Council spokesperson said: "We appreciate that this is a stressful time for people in terms of maintaining normal household bills and we are continuing to offer support, advice and guidance on how to manage this over the next few months.
"Anyone whose financial circumstances have changed is advised to apply for Council Tax Reduction as soon as possible – applications can be made at any time, day or night, online at our MyPKC portal – and, if needed, to get advice from our Welfare Rights Team.
"We would also add that many residents are continuing to make payments, and to also take action to manage their own finances: for example, some people have recently chosen to extend their Direct Debit payments over a longer period of time to March 2021.
"These steps taken by our customers are much appreciated."
Despite Mr Kellas' concerns, SNP councillor for the Strathtay ward, Grant Laing believes the council's steps to assist people with council tax payments are "adequate".
He said: "The council is being sensible about this.
"I do think the way the council is dealing with it is adequate.
"I can understand where [Mr Kellas] is coming from but I think what council officers have put in place is fair."
