Madibeng councillors’ municipal accounts are in the spotlight this week and if they don’t settle outstanding accounts by the end of the month, services will be terminated.
Madibeng mayor Douglas Maimane took the lead on Monday by making enquiries at the revenue department to settle any outstanding amounts if necessary.
“This is in line with the objectives of Operation Patela, the revenue enhancement initiative that started last year that seeks to turn around the financial situation of the municipality,” spokesperson Tumelo Tshabalala said.
“A period of 24-31 January 2023 has been allocated for all councillors to settle the outstanding accounts. Councillors without municipal accounts and residing in areas without rateable properties will be expected to sign flat rate forms and commit to monthly payments for water bills. Credit control and debt collection measures apply to all consumer accounts in arrears for more than 30 days.
During a council meeting in November 2022, employees’ and councillors’ debt was discussed. At the time, employees owed the municipality R10 857 619, and councillors owed R211 056. At the time, the council recommended that these accounts be sent to the payroll department for deductions.
Operation Patela kicked off in Brits at the end of 2022 with many businesses’ services terminated as a result of municipal debt.
The mayor led by example on Monday, followed by the speaker, single whip and members of the mayoral committee.