Taxpayers can now set up their direct debit payments over the telephone or via the council website instead of having to pick up a form, fill it in and then post it back, although people can still do that if they want to.
As an incentive anybody who sets up a direct debit between now and November 12th 2005 will be entered into a draw to win 12 months’ peak membership of the new St Peter’s leisure centre. The centre is currently under construction and is due to open early next year. The membership will allow the winner access to the swimming pool, health suite, fitness suite and fitness classes.
Direct debit is the most popular council tax payment method in Burnley and, as it's the most cost effective, it means the money saved by collecting via direct debit can be invested in local services.
Councillor Peter Kenyon, the council's Executive member for best value and resources, said: “Setting up a direct debit is the easiest way for residents to pay their council tax as the bill will automatically be paid every month. Direct debit payments also help reduce the cost the council incurs when collecting payments. By reducing administration costs the money saved can go towards other services.”
Quelle: Publictechnology, 21.10.2005
