ARE tariff increases a cause for concern? This is what residents had to say.
Hamish ‘Afro King’ Marais: I’m against the increases because people pay their rates but it doesn’t seem like they are getting their money’s worth. We’re paying more money but less service. I think everything is connected and I foresee a spike in crime because people are already struggling to make ends meet.
Jane Wright: It makes it even more difficult for people to make ends meet and it puts pressure on people who are already in financially tight situations. And these are all necessities we cannot do without.
Meghan Perry: The increase in rates continues to exacerbate the radical gap between rich and poor, keeping many citizens in poverty. My biggest concern is that the hardest hit will be those battling to put food on the table. I think those with jobs can make adjustments, while those without, will be pushed further down the poverty line.
Taylene Safediem: I wasn’t aware of these proposed increases and I think it’s a pity that most of the people who are likely to be affected by this issue are the ones who aren’t well informed about it. Although I’m not a ratepayer myself, I’m pretty sure many of the members in our community who currently struggling to afford to pay their utility bills will be negatively affected.
Tom Butterworth: Who wouldn’t be affected? As someone who runs an NPO, we try to allocate our funds to as many of our community projects as possible. Added increases to our water, electricity and other services is something that we would rather do without.
Marilynn Fynn: As a pensioner, I simply can’t afford any more increases. My electricity bill is already way too high as it is and it is killing me. At this rate, I might as well invest in a paraffin stove.
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