An astonished resident, who enquired about her municipal account last week, was informed that the Lekwa Municipality has increased their tariffs.
This follows an employee in credit control who informed her, in no uncertain terms, that she should take out a calculator.
The resident does not receive her account through the mail to take out a calculator.
The Standerton Advertiser sent WhatsApp messages to the communications manager of the municipality, Ms Thobeka Mtshiselwa, on 26 August, 27 August and 28 August, asking about the increase percentage.
We were informed with the last one, that an advert pertaining to the query will be sent.
The Municipal Property Rates Amendment Act 29 of 2014 as published in the Government Gazette, regulates the power of a municipality to impose rates on property, subject to regulation in terms of national legislation.
5. (1) A municipal council must annually review, and if necessary, amend its rates policy.
Any amendment to a rates policy must accompany the municipality’s annual budget when it is tabled in the council in terms of section 16 (2) of the Municipal Finance Management Act.
32. (1) (a) A valuation roll takes effect from the start of the financial year following completion of the public inspection period required b section 49; and (b) remains valid for that financial year or for one or more financial years as the municipality may decide, but in total not for more than four financial years.
Mr Rosier de Ville, DA-councillor for Ward 1, said on Monday, 9 September that he was absent at the last council meeting.
“According to my information, the tariff increases was on the agenda, but not approved by council,” Mr De Ville added.
It was decided that the item will be discussed at the next council meeting, a date that has not yet been scheduled.
According to legislation, the municipal manager must conspicuously display the draft rates policy for a period of at least 30 days, advertise in the media a notice, as well as invite the local community to submit comments and representations.
Ratepayers however, pay the tariff as approved by council.
Readers will be updated in this regard when new information comes to light.
