OPINION: Outrage over high water bill, blocked meters and breakfast bribes
A Brakpan North resident is demanding accountability after an unexplained high water bill, an abrupt disconnection of services, and a breakfast demand by a municipal staff member.
Lee-Ann Prinsloo, Ellis Street in Brakpan North, writes:
I am writing to formally raise a serious concern regarding my recent water billing, blocked water meter, and the subsequent disconnection of my electricity box, all of which have caused significant distress.
On July 16, I received a water bill totaling R8 281, which reflects a usage of 56 kilolitres.
This is highly unusual and inconsistent with my typical water usage.
The following month, on August 16, my account reflected a much lower usage of only 8 kilolitres, which raises questions about the accuracy of the previous month’s reading.
On August 17, I visited the municipal offices to seek clarity on this matter. I was told that I needed to pay R1 600 immediately.
However, I received no prior warning or official communication indicating that there was an outstanding balance on my account.
This lack of notification is deeply concerning.
What is even more troubling is the conduct of the staff member who attended to me. I was informed that my water meter would be unblocked only if I arrived before 09:00 and brought her breakfast.
I was also told that failure to do so would result in my account being blocked again. This level of unprofessionalism and unethical behaviour is unacceptable, especially from a public servant.
Furthermore, I was shocked to find that my electricity box had also been blocked due to this water billing issue.
I fail to understand how these two services are linked in this manner without any written notice or due process.
Given the above, I am requesting the following:
• A full explanation and breakdown of my July water bill and clarification on the usage reflected
• Written clarification on the R1 600 amount requested and why no warning or notice was given
• An urgent investigation into the unprofessional and inappropriate conduct by the staff member I dealt with
• Immediate reconnection of my water and electricity services, pending the outcome of this investigation
• A formal response outlining how the municipality intends to resolve this matter fairly and professionally.
As a resident and ratepayer in Brakpan North, I deserve to be treated with respect and to receive accurate, timely information about my municipal services.
Editor’s note: Comment is awaited from the City of Ekurhuleni.
