Ratepayers’ associations want clarity on Integrated Development Programme, Draft Budget

RATEPAYERS’ associations within the eThekwini Municipality are petitioning Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda to defer the scheduled session for the Draft Budget and Integrated Development Programme (IDP) to April 19.

The eThekwini’s meeting for the projected budget of R16.3 billion, which was initially set for April 2, has drawn concerns from ratepayer groups regarding the allotted timeframe for review of the Draft Budget document.

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Norman Gilbert, chairperson of the Bluff Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association, said that ratepayers’ associations across eThekwini are not happy about the impending meeting, fearing it will raise more queries than it resolves.

“The voluminous document, spanning approximately 400 pages, was disseminated to us just recently. We urge eThekwini to reschedule our engagement as the current timeline does not afford us adequate opportunity for scrutiny and analysis. The municipality has sanctioned a 14% increase in electricity tariffs.”

Gilbert said, “We acknowledge the opportunity to contribute to the discussion surrounding the Draft Budget and Integrated Development Plan (IDP) for our city. The municipality rightly acknowledges the value of our input, recognising its pivotal role in revitalising the city’s economy. However, we want to make it clear to eThekwini that the present timeline fails to provide ample opportunity for a thorough review and effective engagement with the mayor.

“Given the significance of these plans and their profound impact on our community, we humbly request the mayor to contemplate deferring the presentation. This extension will afford us the necessary time to meticulously examine the documents and offer substantive feedback.”

Also read: Bluff Ratepayers’ address concerns

Under the proposed scheme, electricity tariffs are poised to escalate by 14%, water rates by 14.9%, sanitation charges by 12.9% and refuse collection fees by 9.9%.

Public hearings, led by eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda and speaker councillor Thabani Nyawose, are scheduled to take place until April 19.

To have your say on the budget, visit www.durban.gov.za to access the 2024/25 IDP/Draft Budget and Tariffs documents. The public is urged to email comments to comments2021@durban.gov.za or visit the nearest Sizakala Centre or municipal library.

The next IDP Budget meeting for wards 64, 66 and 68 will be held at the Austerville Community Hall on April 13.

Alternatively, residents opposing the tariff increases are urged to submit their objections by clicking on the following link https://forms.gle/zLms14SsiZsh8Xer9

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