Declining revenue collection strains Redcliff

REDCLIFF Municipality is facing financial strain due to declining revenue collection, sparking outrage among residents over the town’s long-term viability in maintaining services and community initiatives.

A decrease in payments from both residential and commercial properties has prompted the local authority to explore potential reforms and outreach programmes to address the issue. The municipality is tackling its revenue collection challenges by exploring multiple solutions, including improving communication with residents regarding their payment obligations and offering more flexible options for paying rates and service charges.

Additionally, the municipality is conducting a thorough review of its budget and expenditure plan to prioritise essential services while maintaining fiscal responsibility. By taking a proactive and multi-faceted approach, the municipality aims to overcome its revenue collection challenges and better serve its residents.

This was revealed by the Town Clerk, Mr Gilson Chakauya, during a recent full council meeting. Mr Chakauya’s concerns were in response to a request by some councillors for management to purchase bulk water meters and rehabilitate roads. However, the town clerk stated that the municipality’s ability to deliver essential services is severely hindered by revenue shortfalls.

“We are facing significant challenges in collecting revenue, which is impacting our ability to provide adequate services to our residents. You want water, but you cannot pay for it; you want roads, but you cannot pay for them,” said Mr Chakauya.

“The finance department relies on revenue collection, which presently stands at 18 percent, yet our target is at least 50 to 60 percent.”

Mr Chakauya urged councillors to find strategies to improve revenue collection.

“If we can focus on how to enhance revenue collection, we will be able to deliver effective services. Even when water is available, no one is paying their bills,” he said.

“We need to explore alternative solutions to address this issue and ensure the sustainability of our municipality. People’s mindset should change, especially those accessing water.”

Mr Chakauya emphasised that councillors have a critical role to play in improving revenue collection.

Councillors also raised concerns over infrastructure maintenance, the provision of water and sanitation services, and waste management.

“Residents in Torwood are not accessing potable water even when it is available. I suggest the council purchase bulk water meters so that others in Torwood can have access to clean water,” said Clr Godfrey Munikwa.

Clr Willard Makonese, who chairs the works committee, stated that Redcliff is receiving water from Kwekwe City Council but at low pressure due to turbidity, electricity power cuts, damaged infrastructure, and non-payment of bills.

“We understand the challenges faced by the authority, but we need to find ways to improve revenue collection and address the needs of our residents. I suggest purchasing bulk water meters and disconnecting defaulters,” said Clr Blessing Mutero.

Clr Josephine Mutamangira expressed concern over the state of the dumpsite.

“We need to sensitise the public and educate our community on waste disposal to ensure a clean environment. It is worrying that we now have dumpsites all over the town,” she said.

District Development Co-ordinator Mr Fortune Mupungu reiterated the need for collective effort to address the municipality’s revenue challenges.

“You must work together to find solutions and ensure the long-term sustainability of service delivery. I appreciate your hard work and commitment as you aspire to become a smart city by 2030,” he said.

“To echo what the town clerk has said, I urge you to engage closely with your residents. As councillors, you are closer to the community and best placed to understand their needs and aspirations.”