Eersterust residents voice concerns over late property valuation notices
As the July 1 implementation date approaches, the community urges the municipality to address concerns about late evaluation notifications promptly to prevent undue hardship and to uphold the principles of fairness and transparency in municipal governance.
Residents of Eersterust have raised concerns regarding the recent property valuation notices issued by the metro.
Many residents report receiving these notices after the official objection deadline of May 2, effectively denying them the opportunity to contest the new valuations.
One resident, who received his notice dated May 11, expressed frustration, stating that the delayed delivery prevented him from lodging a timely objection.
In his written complaint to the metro, he emphasised the importance of a fair process and requested that his objection be considered despite the missed deadline.
Community leaders have echoed these sentiments. They said some property values had doubled without corresponding improvements or market justification.
This discrepancy raises concerns about the accuracy and fairness of the valuation process.
Because of the late notification, they now have no way of objecting.
“This administrative failure has added to the community’s frustration and distrust, as it appears to silence those most at risk. Without these, the revaluation threatens to exacerbate economic inequality and destabilise an already vulnerable community,” a community leader said to Rekord.
Municipalities charge rates according to property value hence, a higher valuation means the metro would collect more rates and taxes.
The valuation is until 2029, and the new rates are effective from July 1.
Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise, during the proposed budget presentation on May 15, stated that alongside the council’s efforts to table a fully funded budget, they have prioritised keeping rates and tariffs as fair and affordable as possible, ensuring that residents are not burdened with unreasonable increases.
The proposed increases are:
– electricity 10.2%
– water 13%
– sanitation 6% and
– refuse removal 4.6%
However, there is a 4% reduction in property rates to cushion the impact of increased valuation.
Despite this measure, residents argue that the increased valuations will lead to higher municipal rates and taxes, exacerbating a financial strain on a community already grappling with high unemployment and low income levels.
Community leaders warn that these costs could force many residents, particularly pensioners and working-class families, into arrears, service disconnections or even displacement.
Councillor Novina Pillay acknowledged the issue, stating: “It is indeed a valid concern, especially for residents of areas like Eersterust. We appeal to the city to apply the principle of administrative fairness, as it is not reasonable to enforce objection deadlines against residents who received their notices late.”
Leaders are encouraging residents to contact the metro to request an extension of the objection period and to ensure their objections are recorded.
Objections can be lodged if an owner recently bought their property at a price lower than the municipal valuation, the average similar property in their area sells at a price lower than the municipal valuation, or a private valuer values the property below the municipal valuation.
Residents can email prov@tshwane.gov.za to object to receiving late notification on property valuations.
Questions have been forwarded to the metro, but no answers have been received at the time of publication.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
