Lesedi Local Municipality says there are currently teething problems with the implementation of the new electricity tariffs concerning the exorbitant electricity increase, especially for businesses.
Some businesses has seen a hike of more than 200% and are now saying that they won’t be able to pay this hike. If there is no relief, they will have to close shop.
LLM’s official press release said the tariffs had to be revised to be in line with Eskom’s tariffs. Different charges had to be introduced based on the time of use. “Customers will pay less in off-peak times and during summer. The municipality are working on the problems regarding implementation of the new tariffs and customers are encouraged to raise concerns with the municipality regarding bills which appear abnormal.”
Heidelberg Chamber of Business are having a special management meeting on August 25 to discuss the problem and to take action against the municipality. Nico Van Huyssteen (president) says it is unacceptable for businesses to suffer because of LLM’s outstanding debt.
Roelf Loubser (DA councillor) says Piet Oosthuizen (Viljoen & Meek Attorneys) and Willie Liebenberg (Liebenberg Malan & Liezel Horn Incorporated) are obtaining an interdict in the High Court against LLM. The purpose is to force the municipality to adjust the tariffs in accordance with NERSA’s approved 12,2% increase.
Loubser advises residents to declare a dispute against the municipality if they feel they are being overcharged. Stephen Meiklejohn (attorney) is drawing up dispute documents in both English and Afrikaans that can be used to declare a written dispute against the municipality.
See the dispute document here.
The above mentioned parties will use the same advocate in this legal action and anyone who wants more information can phone Meiklejohn on 016 341 7292 or Van Huyssteen on 016 341 6329.
