EMM’s assessment rates will increase by 7,5%, lower than the average rate increase compared to other metros which is around 8,1%.

Based on NERSA’s approval, the electricity tariff increase is between 7,64% and 9,4%, depending on the consumption level.

Other increases are as follows:

* water tariff will increase by 9%;

* sanitation will increase by 9%;

* refuse removal goes up by 8%, for both business and residential; and

* there will be no increase in cemetery fees for EMM residents, but 10% increase for non-residents.

“Having listened to our people’s cries about the rate of night vigil tariffs for traditional churches and non-profit organisations, we have reduced the tariff from R900 to R450 per hour,” EMM Finance MMC Moses Makwakwa said.

However, there will be no increase for the following services:

* library and information services;

* use of arts, culture and heritage facilities; and

* sport and recreational facilities.

These increases will reflect on residents’ accounts at the end of July.