CoE council approves annual budget at extraordinary council meeting

The executive mayor’s office announced that the CoE’s budget for the 2024/25 financial year garnered approval at an extraordinary council meeting on June 14 at the Alberton Civic Centre.

R60b was approved for the operating budget, which represents a 9% increase from the previous financial year; a capital budget of R2.9b, representing a 5.4% increase; significant tariff adjustments were approved, including an increase of 4.9% in assessment rates, a 9% increase in water tariffs, a 7% increase in sanitation, and various increases for electricity tariffs, ranging from 11.02% to 12.74%, among other things.

The budget plan also calls for offering various rebates to low-income earners and retirees and free basic services to impoverished households. These measures highlight the city’s commitment to social responsibility and an inclusive welfare net.

Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza thanked the multi-party caucus for their co-operative efforts in reaching this milestone in light of these developments.

Xhakaza said he is grateful to the multi-party caucus for their consistent collaboration and support while authorising this vital budget.

“This incremental move towards enhancing the city’s agility and resuming the provision of high-quality services was made possible by their dedication to the financial stability and sustainability of their community.”

The mayor emphasised that a key element in the budget’s approval was the recent change in municipal leadership.

“The decision to remove the MMC for Finance was not taken lightly but was necessary to address unforeseen misalignments and ensure the swift adjustment and approval of our annual budget. This strategic move has paved the way for today’s success,” said Xhakaza.

The authorised budget demonstrates the city’s dedication to upholding its financial stability, improving tax collection, and offering citizens basic services.

The six crucial pillars intended to advance the city during the State of the City Address:

• Provision of quality, equitable and sustainable services.

• Repairs and maintenance of infrastructure.

• Rebuilding the fiscus.

• Investment in critical infrastructure in partnership with the private sector.

• Economic development with a focus on the Aerotropolis, SMMEs and job creation.

• Good, ethical and effective governance.

The city has unveiled a Revenue Enhancement Plan as part of its continued attempts to strengthen its financial condition. This strategy will identify areas of revenue leakage, investigate potential new revenue streams, and put into action plans to maximise income collection.

In addition to guaranteeing the continuous provision of high-quality services to Ekurhuleni citizens, the effective implementation of this strategy should considerably improve the city’s cash position.

“We have decided to appreciate the revenue challenges we face. Hence, we have elevated the issue of revenue enhancement. We do this because we understand that for us to be able to do our work and implement the IDPs as directed by our people, we need money,” concluded Xhakaza.