Municipal debt is at around R70-million, comprising mainly of unpaid power bills and rates charges.
“Those who cannot pay their service charges – should they be either disabled, jobless or indigent – must contact their Ward Councillor so their names can be added to the indigent registration list.”
Council Speaker. Lucky Khumalo,  said 2 128 residents had already registered, including 530 Sithembile residents and 584 in Sibongile.
He added the fight against illegal electricity connections, which reportedly costs Endumeni Municipality around R24-million annually, would be ‘seriously ramped up’.
Cascades Consulting has been hired by the municipality to conduct inspections on all electrical meters within the Municipal area.
“No area will be excluded. Cascade workers have reported being intimidated by residents, especially in Ward 5, when they arrive to check if meters have been tampered with. We appeal to all residents to work with us in clearing this problem. For our municipality to function properly, we have to make sure everyone pays taxes and for electricity [usage].”
Speaker Khumalo added the municipality ‘was committed to working with the unemployed, the elderly and those who are employed to ensure all service charge commitments are met’.

Relates stories:

Illegal electricity connections contribute to load shedding

HAVE YOUR SAY:
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za.  Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394