THE Ministry of Local Government has labelled claims by the Labasa Ratepayers Association as scandalous and based on ill-founded facts.
Local Government director Josese Rakuita said records were available with the ministry to substantiate the actions taken by the council over certain issues highlighted by the association.
"In addition, the letter contains defamatory words in an attempt to discredit the good works that has been carried out by special administrator Vijay Chand appointed for Labasa and Savusavu town councils," Mr Rakuita said.
Last week, the association wrote to the council giving it seven days notice to respond to their queries over issues which included transfer of certain council assets.
However, Mr Rakuita said all decisions made regarding the issues raised by the association had followed proper procedures.
"On the new twin cab purchased by the council, this had been accommodated for in the council budget and the vehicle is used during late hours," he said.
"The special administrator has two towns to administer and they're at a distance of 100 kilometres from each other and travelling is usually done at odd hours.
"Additionally, the use of vehicle for limited private purpose with benefits for housing and co-sharing arrangement of salaries from respective councils is now part of the contracts of all special administrators."
Mr Rakuita said such benefits were applicable to Mr Chand.