CoE Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza announced the approval of the revised Debt Relief and Incentive Scheme at the ordinary council meeting on August 29 in Germiston.
Xhakaza applauded the newly appointed MMC for Finance, Jongizizwe Dlabathi, for this achievement, which marks a significant step in delivering financial relief to residents while maintaining the sustainability of the city’s revenue collection efforts.
He said the revised scheme shows the financial pressures many households and businesses in Ekurhuleni face.
ALSO READ: Meet the new MMC of Finance for CoE
“It reflects the administration’s resolve to balance financial relief with the important need to maintain a healthy revenue base for the continued provision of essential services.”
The mayor said the highlights of the revised scheme include a 70% debt write-off on the portion of debt over 12 months old, with the remaining 30% to be written off within 36 months.
“This provision is available to households with a property value not exceeding R3m.”
He also announced an increase in the property value threshold from R1.5m to R3m, allowing more households to benefit from the 70% debt write-off.
“There will also be a 100% interest write-off on accounts associated with properties valued above R3m.”
Xhakaza said qualifying businesses would also benefit from a 100% interest write-off, with a 36-month payment arrangement.
ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni finance adjudicator gunned down
“There will also be a three-month waiver period, during which households with illegal connections can regularise their status and subsequently benefit from the scheme,” he said.
The mayor also announced a rand value credit for account holders who had consistently submitted their meter readings for 12 months. It is aimed at minimising interim billing.
“There will be an extension of the revised scheme’s validity until June 2026, providing ample time for eligible residents and businesses to take advantage of these benefits.
ALSO READ: Keeping on top of finances can alleviate festive-season stress
“This policy revision is a testament to our commitment to the residents of Ekurhuleni.
“We recognise the financial hardships many residents are experiencing, and this scheme is our way of providing meaningful relief without compromising the city’s financial health,” said Xhakaza.
He encourages all eligible households and businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and work with the municipality to ensure a financially sustainable future for the city.
