…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media.
MMC for Finance Urges Affluent Communities to Fulfill Their Responsibilities
The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Finance in the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Dada Morero emphasizes the importance of affluent communities fulfilling their obligations and paying for municipal services they have consumed.
In his plea, MMC Morero seeks greater collaboration between the City and its residents to find lasting solutions.
Balancing Priorities: Municipal Accounts and Luxuries
Highlighting the significance of prioritization, MMC Morero urges communities to treat their municipal accounts with the same level of importance as they do with luxuries such as pay TV and retail shop accounts.
He emphasizes that without the necessary funds from ratepayers, the municipality cannot meet the increasing demands for service delivery from communities.
Concerns Over the City’s Financial Status
MMC Morero expresses his concern over the rapid depletion of the City’s financial resources due to a culture of non-payment.
Approximately 65% of the City’s annual budget relies on revenue generated from ratepayers.
The Importance of Sustainable Municipalities
To sustain itself, the City relies on various sources of income, including grants and subsidies from the national government, loans, fines, and penalties.
However, it is crucial for residents to pay their municipal accounts on time and in full to ensure essential services such as electricity, clean water, regular waste collection, and well-maintained roads.
By fulfilling their responsibilities, residents enable the City to provide not only basic services but also additional community services such as an expanded community police force, housing for the less fortunate, and improved public transportation.
A Plea for Responsible Payment
In conclusion, MMC Morero urges residents to find a healthy balance between paying for their municipal accounts and indulging in luxury services.
By doing so, they contribute to the City’s financial stability and ensure the provision of essential services that benefit the entire community.