The Mayor and City Councillor is urging rate-payers to ensure that their accounts are up to date at its treasury, particularly in the light of the financial woes currently affecting the municipality.
In a press release the Council said it is working to garner money to meet its obligations to its staff and contractors. It also said its real and immediate challenge is to narrow the revenue base with which the Council must conduct its responsibilities to local communities. According to the release the demand for services in maternal and child welfare, markets, drainage, roads, public health services and street lighting has been steadily increasing while its revenue base remains very narrow. Rates account for about 85% of its total revenue while other revenue earners include processing fees, markets and day care.
The Council said it will not be able to fulfil its mandate without citizens’ support; noting that some property owners have shirked their responsibilities and have not paid rates for as far back as six years. It urges property-owners who are experiencing difficulties to contact its offices, as the Council has a convenient plan for rate-payers who need assistance in honouring their responsibilities.
