The FF Plus welcomes the decision by the Mbombela Local Municipality (Nelspruit, Barberton, White River, Hazyview) to conduct water consumption audits.
This means that physical meter readings, the monthly billing of water consumption and any possible water theft will be evaluated on a monthly basis.
The FF Plus raised the issue during a special council meeting on the 29th of April.
This was after the party received reports from members of the community indicating that the last time they paid the Municipality for water was in 2012.
Other reports indicated that members of the public who have lodged disputes regarding water bills do not receive any statements.
This situation has caused serious cash-flow problems for the Municipality. It is hampering service delivery and restricts the procurement of crucial equipment.
The Mayor, Ms Sibongile Makushe, has confirmed that she is aware of the challenges and has undertaken to ensure that the audits are indeed performed.
According to her, residents' municipal debt amounts to a few million rand. She has not yet responded to the FF Plus's request for the exact amount.
The FF Plus will pose further questions about the findings of the audits to the Mayor.
The FF Plus is of the opinion that municipal bill disputes must be prioritised and urgently finalised. These water consumption audits must form part of the revenue improvement plan aimed at increasing the already bankrupt Municipality's cash flow.
