Time to take stock in the Mary Valley

The Newman Government will move to correct another Labor failure as it pushes ahead with its Mary Valley Economic Development Strategy, by ensuring that properties put for sale are in the best possible condition.

Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney said the Bligh Government bought 472 properties in the Mary Valley then leased them out when its failed Traveston Dam plan was rejected by the Federal Government.

“Unfortunately the previous Government was a hopeless landlord,” Mr Seeney said.

“It allowed many properties to become rundown and neglected and did not pursue rental arrears. Now demolition may be the only option for some properties.

Mr Seeney said more than 40 tenants were in arrears with rent owing more than $70,000 while 65 breach notices had been issued for various reasons.

“An assessment of the state-owned landholdings is underway as a precursor to this Government’s sales program under the development strategy.

“Indications from these assessments show that there are a significant number of tenants who are not complying with their leases and not maintaining the properties.

“Tenants have rights and responsibilities, as do landlords.

“We intend to be a good landlord, but equally we expect tenants to fulfil their responsibilities to care for properties they lease.

“New property managers will oversee the property portfolio to support the sales program, and lease agreements are going to be enforced.”

Mary Valley Economic Development Advisory Group chair and Member for Gympie, David Gibson, said selling safe, properly maintained property was a key to the revitalisation plan.

“Achieving the best sales price at the lowest cost to Government will ensure that available funds can be used to assist in the development of the Mary Valley economy rather than being frittered away on unpaid rent and maintenance costs.” Mr Gibson said. 

Mr Gibson said that where tenants were responsible for maintenance and had failed to respond to notices, local contractors would be appointed to carry out the maintenance program. Costs would be recovered from the tenant. 

“Given that many of the properties being put to market are tenanted, it is critical that tenants meet the requirements of their agreements,” he said.

“To get things ship-shape, we have called for tenders for agents to manage the properties with a strong focus on tenant compliance.

“The successful real estate agents will have a key role in ensuring tenants pay their rent on time and meet their obligations.

“Tenants will be kept informed of progress and a new project website will be launched in early November.”

“We want the Mary Valley to be a thriving community.”

[ENDS] 29 October 2012                 

Media Contact: John Wiseman – 0409 791 281