The FF Plus sent urgent questions to the Mbombela Local Municipality (Mbombela/Nelspruit, Barberton, Hazyview, Kaapschehoop, Skukuza, White River) regarding the municipal management’s intention to refocus on a planned housing development.
The decision was made despite the fact that there has been no public participation process.
Mbombela used old figures dating from 2011 as part of its attempt to drive the project which was planned in 2014. A total of 400 residential units are planned for Ward 30 in White River alone, with similar projects in Nelspruit and Tekwane.
The FF Plus is strongly opposed to the planned development owing to the Municipality’s dire financial position.
This subsidised low-cost housing plan is part of the Municipality’s Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme and may jeopardise the value of other properties in the area.
Residents are concerned that the lower average prices of the subsidised houses and plots may have a detrimental impact on their own property valuations.
It is, moreover, shocking that the Municipality appears to be facing the exact same problems as 12 years ago. Among other things, the town is still experiencing water problems.
Mbombela also does not have the funds needed to repair or replace its current power, water and sewage infrastructure. So, chances that the planned housing project will be successful are slim.
The Municipality has already admitted that it lacks money, and is unable to repair or replace outdated and decaying infrastructure.
The FF Plus views Mbombela’s approval of the project as nothing more than a gimmick to garnish votes for the 2024 elections, and foresees that the project will not realise and may even lead to protests.
It is clear that the Municipality is not putting all its residents’ interests first, and is being recklessly opportunistic in managing the people’s needs and expectations.
Mbombela deserves better than the ANC.
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