In a sign of its ongoing support to fire-affected residents, Ararat Rural City Council will have its development and regulation manager Rob Fillisch based at Pomonal two days a week.

Mr Fillisch will work from Pomonal Community Hall to provide enhanced services to residents about planning issues, enabling easier access for residents to seek guidance and assistance on planning matters.

Mr Fillisch will be available for drop-in sessions, enabling residents to discuss their concerns and queries without prior appointments.

Council leaders have vowed to fully assist residents with planning inquiries and expedite the processing of applications wherever possible.

While the council does not directly issue building permits, Mr Fillisch can provide guidance, directing residents to the appropriate channels and offering limited advice on building permit procedures.

Ararat Rural City chief executive Tim Harrison encouraged residents to use the opportunity to seek clarification on planning regulations, discuss development proposals and address any concerns they have.

“We are committed to being here for the long- term recovery process and ensuring that the planning and re-building process is as smooth and accessible as possible for our community,” he said.

“We encourage residents to take advantage of these drop-in sessions and share any concerns or queries they may have.

“Our goal is to provide timely assistance and support to all residents as they recover and are always accessible.”

Mr Fillisch will work from Pomonal every Wednesday and Thursday, from 8.30am to 4pm, until at least the end of April.

Dr Harrison said the council would assess the demand for services and consider extending the availability based on residents’ needs.

People can call the council’s customer services on 5355 0200 for more information or visit the organisation’s Facebook page for specified drop-in hours.

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