Ugu seeks 5,7 percent tariff hike

UGU Municipality hopes to hike water and sanitation tariffs by 5.7 percent for the next financial year.

Spokesman France Zama said the increases were desperately needed to help provide all communities with basic needs, especially after many areas had battled with water problems in recent months.

More than R1,3-billion was tabled for the 2016/17 Ugu consolidated draft budget at the Thursday meeting.

A capital budget of more than R368-million was allocated to deal with key municipal strategic focus areas which include social, economic, asset management and rehabilitation of municipal infrastructure.

An increased operational budget of more than R960-million has also been allocated to water and sanitation services.

Mr Zama said the draft budget had taken the country’s current financial situation into account – particularly Eskom tariff increases, sluggish economic growth and high unemployment.

“This draft budget also seeks to institute financial discipline through cost cutting and setting revenue targets that need to be achieved to ensure a financially sustainable municipality.

“It also seeks to advance the municipality’s mission statement of providing access to sanitation and to quality drinking water in an effort to improve the lives of our communities,” he said.

The draft budget will be taken to communities in IDP/ budget roadshows before being implemented.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram

For news straight to your phone, add us on BBM 58F3D7A7 or WhatsApp 082 421 6033