Ethekwini Municipality urges customers not to pay attention to any hoax information relating to rates increases and tariffs.
Head of Revenue Management, Peet du Plessis said it has come to the attention of the municipality that a flyer has been placed in post boxes in and around the city, allegedly by a real estate company. The flyer states that the upcoming rates increases will be 71.43%.
“Municipal tariff increases are set every year during the budget process with the needs of every consumer in mind,” said Du Plessis.
“It is guided by a tariff policy which ensures that the increases are affordable and realistic. Rates increases are determined by the value of the property and the amount in which it has fluctuated.
The company in question has made calculations based on the multi year revenue and expenditure framework which sets out the financial plan for the coming years. This is not correct as it is reviewed every year.
The company that distributed the information to residents did not consider the variables used to calculate the rates tariffs. There are two notable variables, the required revenue in terms of the budget that should be funded by property taxes and also the property value of all properties liable for the payment of property taxes as per legislation,” said Du Plessis.
He said the hoax flyer that was being distributed did not take the necessary variables in consideration, hence creating concern among residents that their taxes will increase by about 71.43%, while the reality is that the budget is still under consideration by the municipal council. As such, speculation of this nature is unwarranted.
The city warns residents that the company in question could request payment. Residents are also informed not to contract any of these companies or organisations to act on their behalf as far as objections to their property values and high rates tariffs are concerned. This can be done directly by the property owner concerned at any municipal customer care or Sizakala Centre.
Customers can also email revline@durban.gov.za with any queries.
