Fed-up residents to fight lack of service delivery

Frustrated residents came together to address local problems and establish a rates and taxpayers association.

The association is aimed at creating a uniform body, that is registered and has legal recourse when it comes to basic rights and service delivery in Bromhof and Boskruin.

Resident Lorraine Lee said that they called the meeting because they wanted to see how many residents feel the same way.

“We are looking at a new ratepayers association as people are tired of paying rates and taxes every month and for what service? Our utility bills are increasing for power, water and sewerage, and this seems as though irrespective on how much we use, we are all paying an extra 9%.”

The residents have seen a massive decline in service delivery and that led to forming the association.

Frederick Wilson said, “The state of complete neglect of public facilities, like our community centres, libraries and even clinics – if we are paying rates, we expect to see these facilities in our area being maintained.”

The association will have a massive impact and will unite residents and be their one voice to address their issues.

“If we as a community withhold our rates and pay it into a trust account until we see changes in our local suburbs, the city may take note that there is a large amount of money not coming into the central coffers and start listening to the community,” said Wilson.

Ward 101 councillor Ralf Bittkau attended the meeting. He advised and encourage the community to officially form the association to assist him in a fight of service delivery.

“I’m always here to assist wherever I can because the more properly formalised associations the better. It will makes life easier for everybody.”

He also asked residents to go online and complain about rates and tariffs on the City of Joburg’s websites before May 29.

The association has sent a signed petition to the presidency, COJ and as well as Eskom.