RATEPAYERS associations continue to exert pressure on the eThekwini Municipality in an effort to force a reversal of the proposed tariff hikes outlined in the 2025/2026 draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP) budget.

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Proposed tariff hikes:

• Electricity tariffs are set to rise by 12.72%
• Domestic water users could see a 15% hike, while businesses will see a 16% increase
• Sanitation increases are 13% for domestic and 14% for businesses
• Refuse removal rising by 9.9%
• Property rates are expected to increase by 6.5%.

Chairperson of the Bluff Ratepayers and Residents Association (BRRA) Norman Gilbert said a recent meeting with the City was fruitful, however, the association is not impressed with the proposed tariff hikes.

“It was easily one of the most productive engagements we’ve had as ratepayers’ associations with the City. The mayor’s address was well received, and it’s clear that his attitude toward the City and toward us as key stakeholders is one of respect and collaboration.

“The city’s budget was presented, however, we strongly opposed the proposed double-digit tariff increases. The eThekwini economy simply cannot absorb such hikes. We made it clear to the mayor and his team that these increases are not sustainable. Alternative savings must be found within the existing budget,” said Gilbert.

He said the association is concerned regarding the growing lack of confidence in the City’s ability to deliver.

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“We’ve seen projects receive funding, only for that money to go unused and be sent back to National Treasury. This pattern of under-delivery must end.

Gilbert suggested that the municipality focus on the following to earn the full support of the ratepayers:

• Execute projects on time within the budget
• Complete the project on time

Mayor of eThekwini Cyril Xaba met with ratepayers’ associations on April 22 at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

These engagements on the draft IDP / Budget are scheduled to conclude on May 14, with the final budget set for adoption on May 22.

The draft budget totals R71.3b, comprising an operating budget of R64.2b and a capital budget of R7.1b.

According to the municipality, the IDP is the key strategic tool that guides development and service delivery, helping to translate community visions and municipal goals into actionable plans over the next five years.

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Xaba emphasised the importance of public participation, saying, “This is your city. We take all inputs very seriously. You have the ability to shape the future of eThekwini.”

Key highlights of the budget include:

• An R859m allocation to electricity infrastructure, which will fund network upgrades
• The construction of 17 new substations
• Water infrastructure will receive R1.15b, primarily for pipe replacement and the water loss intervention programme.

“The focus of this budget is to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential services by strengthening infrastructure. We are implementing asset management plans to repair, rehabilitate, and replace our infrastructure in the short, medium and long term,” said Xaba.

Residents are encouraged to follow the municipality’s social media pages and local media for updates on upcoming budget hearings in their areas.

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