Residents weigh in on Mogale's new municipal tariffs

Mogale City Local Municipality has announced approved municipal tariff adjustments that took effect on July 1, citing rising operational costs and the need to sustain essential service delivery.

The approved tariff increases are

• Property rates: 0% (no increase)
• Electricity: 9.01%
• Water: 11%
• Sanitation: 11%
• All other municipal services: 3.7%

The municipality said keeping property rates unchanged is intended to provide relief to residents amid the rising cost of living, while the tariff increases are necessary to ensure the continued delivery of quality municipal services.

The announcement drew mixed reactions from residents on the municipality’s Facebook page, with many questioning affordability and calling for improved service delivery.

• Also read: Electricity, water and service costs rise in Mogale

Jackie Wilson du Preez said the 11% water tariff increase should be accompanied by better service, particularly the replacement of faulty water meters that she said have remained unresolved for more than two years.

Mashudu Munyai highlighted the growing cost of living, saying urban households are facing mounting financial pressure.

Suzan Mosweu said she had hoped for a lower electricity increase, suggesting that a 5% adjustment would have been more manageable for consumers already grappling with rising household expenses.

While the municipality maintains the tariff adjustments are necessary to sustain service delivery, residents have called for greater accountability and visible improvements to municipal infrastructure and services.