City told: Show us the service, we will show you the money

03 February 2017

 

Irate residents let rip at a City of Johannesburg Property Rates Policy review meeting at Marks Park Sports Complex in Emmarentia, Region B, last night (Thursday February 2), expressing their frustrations over what they perceived or claimed to be poor levels of service delivery.

 

The meeting was one of 21 currently being rolled out citywide to give residents the opportunity to comment on the current property rates so the policy could remain sustainable and the related tariffs equitable and affordable.

Johannesburg has more than 860 000 properties, of which 570 000 are residential. With a total property value of R928-billion, properties in the city generate about R9.2-billion in rates a year. However, after rebates, the figure comes down to R8.3-billion.

Last night’s meeting was also attended by councillors Graham de Kock, James Lorimer, Tim Truluck and Bridget Steer.

Emmarentia resident Erica Simpson said the meeting provided an important platform from which residents could express their concerns. But she queried the “efficacy” of the suggestion processes.

“We make inputs over and over but these don’t seem to get considered. There are severe delays in simple procedures it’s terribly frustrating. A simple change of ownership should not take months on end to resolve,” said Simpson.

Albertsville resident Ryno du Toit asked why rates and taxes should be paid in the first place. “We’re taxed and taxed and taxed and now our rates are being increased. I don’t mind paying but I want the services that I’m paying for delivered. Currently, that’s not the case,” said Du Toit.

Another resident concurred with Simpson and Du Toit. “The ratepayers keep paying while service levels keep dropping. None of the promises made in previous year’s meetings has been kept and the City is still talking about the same thing. I’m not averse to paying but tax me fairly,” he fumed.

The City’s Deputy Director of Policy and Revenue Enhancement, Veli Hlophe, said opinions, inputs, comments and suggestions made by residents, property owners and businesspeople had been noted and would be assessed and considered.

“Our annual revision of the Property Rates Policy and the crafting of the 2017-2018 Rates Policy are now under way and we invite all contributions and inputs to ensure our final policy speaks to those it affects,” said Hlophe.

“Each input is assessed and, if feasible, sent through the motivation processes before it is presented before council. As the City, we’re committed to ensuring that the policy remains sustainable and the related tariffs equitable and affordable,” he said.

Hlophe said inputs and suggestions from property owners were invaluable.

Interested parties and stakeholders have until 21 February to make their voices heard. Comments can be submitted in writing to fax number 086 447 7567 or via email to ratescomments@joburg.org.za,pumzaj@joburg.org.za or tandisizwes@joburg.org.za.