Pensioner hit with R1-million utility bill
"They told me they were going to take my house away from me."
A Mamelodi pensioner is facing an R1-million utility bill, which could mean selling his house to cover the expenses.
Jerry Sehlola (76) of section Q Mamelodi West, told Rekord his problems started three years ago when the Tshwane metro sent him two water and electricity bills.
He said the rates for both were “abnormally high” and he did not know which one he was supposed to pay.
“I went to the local municipal officers in Mamelodi and they could not help me. Instead, they referred me to the metro’s finance department in town,” said Sehlola.
“I was sent from pillar to post, not getting the info I needed – even from senior officials.”
One bill stated Sehlola owed the metro R618 600, while the second one reflected he owed an additional R522 852.
“How can I afford this with the little money I get for my social grant every month?”
Now, lawyers and debt collectors apparently hired by the metro are reportedly contacting Sehlola, threatening to auction off his home.
“They told me they were going to take my house away from me,” claimed Sehlola.
“I have been living there for 40 years. Where will I live should the metro decide to sell off my house?”
Oupa Mtshweni, who helps Mamelodi residents out as the president of the Concern for Service Delivery organisation, said he was disappointed with the metro.
“Residents have been complaining about high municipal service charges and that their bills are wrong, but the metro continues to ignore these complaints,” said Mtshweni.
The Tshwane metro said the pensioner’s account has been in arrears for longer than 120 days.
Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said that the first bill was for Sehlola’s residence and the second one was for a commercial property he owned.
“He has only one account with the municipality,” said Mashigo.
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Bills for both were delivered to his premises.
He said both bills have been handed over to the appointed external debt collectors for legal action.
The last payment was made on 7 January 2014.
Mashigo suggested that Sehlola visit the metro’s community and social development services department “if the income of the household is two-state pensions or less”.
“If the income is more than two state pensions, he should apply for an affordability assessment.”
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