EDITOR – All projections show that the global economy is in huge trouble with the onset of covid-19.
Research conducted here by eThekwini Municipality itself shows that 324 000 jobs may be lost over the next six months and that the economy will contract between -4 and -6 per cent.
As the DA, we have proposed that the current budget be re-allocated where possible to focus on key priorities- delivering services, maintaining and developing infrastructure, protecting jobs and the economy and looking after the vulnerable and poor.
We have also proposed that the draft 2020/ 2021 budget be completely re-worked.
The current draft is a “business as usual” budget, including pay increases, high tariff increases and lots of unnecessary bells and whistles. We are now in a period of social and economic crisis and the draft budget has to be drastically adjusted to reflect that.
The decision of the municipal leadership not to offer any relief for ratepayers or residents who cannot pay the bills due to the pandemic is simply unacceptable.
These are the city’s loyal customers and vulnerable citizens and the municipality has a duty of care to help them.
The current business “solutions” that Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda announced are a drop in the ocean compared to what is required and the rates relief refusal is a slap in the face of those having hard times.
People are starving, businesses are collapsing and food cupboards are empty. It’s time that the Mayor and the city leadership get real about helping them.
Cllr Nicole Graham
Leader: DA eThekwini
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