Residents encouraged to take a stand
Nearly 100 residents from Randburg, Fourways and Sandton met with their ward councillors to discuss the IDP draft .
On May 4, almost 100 residents gathered with councillors and members of the finance committee to discuss the proposed Integrated Development Plan (IDP), city budget, and tariff increases.
Chris Santana, a member of the oversight committee on finance, and Julie Suddaby, Shadow MMC of finance and former finance MMC for Joburg, were joined by ward 104 councillor Emi Koekomoer, ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe, and other councillors.
The purpose of the discussion at the Bryanston County Club was to share the IDP process, new rates, and tariffs, as well as to encourage citizens to provide comments on the draft and object to the items they are unhappy with.
The main proposed tariff increases for 2023/24 are:
- Rates +5.3% (plus adjustment in the value of the property)
- The discount of R350 000 off the residential property value has been reduced to R300 000.
- Water +9.3%
- Sewer/sanitation +9.3%
- Refuse +7%
- Power +18.64%
- Changes to pensioner rebates
Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe said that tariff increases are standard increases as one would normally get from all suppliers.
“For example, if you own a business and buy supplies, you will notice that suppliers raise their prices from time to time. That is essentially what the city is doing.”
Residents expressed concern about the increase in rates as well as the reduction in property value. Suddaby recommended residents file objections or comments with the city if they are dissatisfied.
“If you are unhappy with the drop in the property value then we have almost 100 people in here or 100 comments that need to go through the IDP process to say you are not happy about it. It is residents who need to do that and escalate their objections.”
The deadline for the comments was May 9. However, Suddaby added that it might be extended because all the city engagements have been postponed. “That deadline may be or may not be changed. Get your comments in as soon as possible.”
Residents can submit their comments:
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