Umdoni council approves 2022/23 budget
For the first time in this council's history, the budget was approved by all councillors.
Umdoni Municipality’s budget for the 2022/23 financial year was delivered by mayor Sibongile Khathi at a special council meeting held at the Umzinto town hall last Wednesday.
For the first time in this council’s history, the budget was approved by all councillors.
“Council approved a budget of R479 846 651 which encompasses a capital budget of R99 401 710 and an operational budget allocation of R380 444 941,” said Umdoni communications manager, Sphelele Cele.
“The capital budget is made up of R42-m from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant, R6-m from Provincial Grants and R50-m Internal Funding.”
Projects under the capital budget includes four community halls (wards 2, 4, 5 and 18), three sports fields (wards 1, 3 and 13), Umzinto storm water upgrade and rehabilitation of roads in all wards.
Housing still remains an integral part of community development and a provision of R40-m has been made through the Department of Human Settlement to advance housing projects in Amahlongwa, Amandawe, Mistake Farm and Vulamehlo.
During her speech, mayor Khathi emphasised that irrespective of the budget not being on par with the growing community needs, the municipality will continue to strive for the achievement of more with what is available.
“Our goal as this council is to ensure ample energy is given to infrastructure development, improvement of the local economy and waste management services, reduction of contracted services and improvement of electrification projects.” said mayor Khathi.
“It is pleasing to witness that this budget is fully supported by fellow councillors, and this is testimony that we have taken a stance to work together in contributing to job creation, economic viability and ensure the people of Umdoni have access to basic services.”
It was also mentioned that the current economic position remains unfavourable following the two-year impact of Covid-19 as well as the historical performance in revenue collection by the municipality.
“In the upcoming fiscal year, the municipality aims for a revenue collection of R381-m made up of rates, grants and subsidies and other income. Further, a tariff increase of 4.8% is to be implemented,” explained Ms Cele.
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