The Nasinu Town Council collects about $1.5 million annually in rates, but outstanding arrears still stand at approximately $14 million.
Chair Felix Magnus says while collection has improved, the council continues to face financial pressure, particularly in waste management.
He says that garbage services alone cost the council significantly more than what is collected.
He says they receive about $800,000 from garbage collection, but the expenditure on garbage is around $3 million.
Magnus says that because of the shortfall, the council depends on Government support.
He says a debt recovery unit has been established to strengthen collections, but stresses that the approach is not heavy-handed.
INSERT: Magnus on debt recovery 20th Feb
Magnus says that although arrears remain high, the figure is decreasing each year.
He also acknowledges residents, including those overseas, who have stepped forward to help settle outstanding rates.
