At last night’s Closed Council meeting, Devonport City Councillors unanimously resolved to continue to pursue an outstanding debt of $12,236 from Ben Milbourne’s former restaurant, CharlotteJack Pty Ltd, relating to utility supply charges from 2019.

Deputy Mayor Alison Jarman said the outstanding debt related to the on charging of power and gas usage incurred by CharlotteJack, soon after opening and prior to the utility charges being transferred into CharlotteJack’s name.

“Despite these charges being directly related to power and gas used by his restaurant, Ben Milbourne as the sole Director has been unwilling for the restaurant to pay the debt,” Cr Jarman said.

“Council has pursued the debt for some time and offered a payment arrangement in 2019, which was accepted, however, payment attempts have been unsuccessful, despite third-party action through the Tasmanian Collection Service.

“Council has sought legal advice to ensure this matter is dealt with in the right way and it is disappointing this past debt remains outstanding, especially when Providore Place is really starting to gain traction, with all major tenancies occupied on full commercial terms and the popularity of the pavilion for markets and events growing all the time.”

Although not related to the debt collection, Council has confirmed that Ben Milbourne’s solicitor recently wrote to Council seeking damages as a result of the failure of CharlotteJack Pty Ltd. Council has rejected the claim.

Cr Milbourne and Cr Rockliff declared an interest in the matter and left the meeting prior to discussion and subsequent decision.

CharlotteJack operated from Providore Place from 2018 until 2020.

ENDS