CITY OF EKURHULENI COUNCIL APPROVES THE ANNUAL BUDGET AT EXTRAORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING IN AN UNPRECIDENTED DISPLAY OF LOCAL UNITY
The Office of the Executive Mayor is pleased to announce that the City of Ekurhuleni’s budget for the 2024/25 financial year has been approved at an Extraordinary Council Meeting held today, 14th June 2024, at the Alberton Civic Centre.
The approved budget includes an Operating budget of R60 billion, marking a 9% increase from the previous financial year, and a Capital budget of R2.9 billion, reflecting a 5.4% increase. Major tariff adjustments were also approved, including a 4.9% increase in assessment rates, a 9% increase in water tariffs, a 7% increase in sanitation, and varying increases for electricity tariffs ranging between 11.02% and 12.74%, among others.
The financial plan further includes the provision of free basic services to indigent households and various rebates for pensioners and low-income earners, reinforcing the City’s dedication to social responsibility and an inclusive welfare net.
In light of these developments, the Executive Mayor expressed gratitude to the multi-party caucus for their collaborative efforts in achieving this milestone, the Mayor remarked,
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the multi-party caucus for their unwavering support and cooperation in the approval of this crucial budget. Their commitment to the financial health and sustainability of our city has been instrumental in this progressive step towards improving the agility and restoration of quality service delivery in the city.”
The Mayor highlighted the recent changes in the municipal leadership as a pivotal factor in the budget’s approval.
“The decision to remove the MMC for Finance was not taken lightly but was necessary to address unforeseen misalignments and to ensure the swift adjustment and approval of our annual budget. This strategic move has paved the way for today’s success,” said Mayor Xhakaza.
The approved budget underscores the City’s commitment to maintaining financial sustainability, enhancing revenue collection, and providing essential services to its residents.
Meanwhile, during the State of the City Address the Executive Mayor highlighted Six Key Pillars aimed at propelling the city forward. These are:
• Provision of quality, equitable and sustainable services;
• Repairs and maintenance of infrastructure;
• Rebuilding of the fiscus;
• Investment on critical infrastructure in partnership with the private sector;
• Economic development with a special focus on the Aerotropolis, SMMEs and job creation; and
• Good, Ethical and Effective Governance.
As part of the City’s ongoing efforts to improve its financial position, a Revenue Enhancement Plan has been introduced. This plan focuses on identifying revenue leakages, exploring new revenue opportunities, and implementing strategies to optimize revenue collection. The successful execution of this plan is expected to significantly bolster the City’s liquidity status and ensure the continued delivery of quality services to the residents of Ekurhuleni.
“We have decided to appreciate the revenue challenges we face hence we have elevated the issue of revenue enhancement. We do this because we understand that for us to be able to do our work and implement the IDPs as directed by our people, we need money,” concluded Ald Xhakaza.
