adminSukoluhle Ndlovu Midlands Correspondent
GWERU City Council has put in place a revenue enhancement team to spearhead the recovery of over $55 million owed by residents and companies.
In an interview recently, the city’s spokesperson, Mr Manford Gambiza, said non-payment of water and rates by residents and companies negatively affected operations of the council, which he said was now failing to meet its service delivery targets.
He said the revenue enhancement team was comprised of councillors and members of management whose sole purpose was to ensure that residents and companies settled their debts as soon as possible.
“As council, we have set up a revenue enhancement team to spearhead recovering of debt owed by residents and companies which is now way above $55 million,” said Mr Gambiza.
Critical service delivery issues like water supply, roads rehabilitation, sewer reticulation and solid waste management have been negatively affected by non-payment of the council debt.
“This has derailed Gweru City mission of quality services to residents and all stakeholders.”
Mr Gambiza said the revenue enhancement team extended discounts to residents and companies who were willing to settle their debts as part of its efforts to recover the debt.
“There are discounts on offer for those paying their debts in full or making payment plans,” he said. So, we urge residents and companies to come forward and settle their debts.”
Mr Gambiza said service delivery would improve if residents and companies cleared their debts.
“Everyone needs treated water and this treated water needs chemicals. It needs electricity to be pumped from Gwenhoro Dam into respective homes and all that requires money,” he said.
“Residents and companies that owe the council are encouraged to come forward and make payment plans.”
Mr Gambiza urged residents to report any cases of illegal water connections in their areas.
Online Reporter