Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
GWERU City Council (GCC) has recovered US$450 000 after shutting down 30 business premises during an ongoing blitz targeting residents and ratepayers with outstanding bills.
The blitz is part of council’s drive to improve revenue collection for service delivery.
The local authority had set a target of US$1,5 million, and with US$450 000 already banked, the recovery drive continues.
Council spokesperson, Ms Vimbai Chingwaramusee, confirmed the clampdown was successful and is still underway.
Of the 30 premises closed, 28 have since settled their accounts and resumed operations.
“Yes, there was a blitz targeting debtors, and the blitz is ongoing, 30 premises were shut down while 28 premises settled their bills,” she said.
“We expected to recover US$1,5 million. However, we have so far recovered US$450 000. The blitz was successful.”
Ms Chingwaramusee highlighted that legal pressure on defaulting ratepayers and residents is also mounting.
She said council issued 400 summons to defaulters adding that 30 properties have been attached so far.
Ms Chingwaramusee urged residents and ratepayers to settle their rates and bills.
“Don’t ignore your rates and utility bills/debts, as delays can lead to legal action, which might lead to attachment of property, service disconnections and additional costs.
“If you have arrears, visit city council offices immediately and apply for a payment plan,” she said.
The official added that paying rates and utility charges is not just a legal obligation but directly funds essential services like water supply, sewer maintenance, and refuse collection.
“Paying rates and utility charges is not only a legal obligation but also helps fund essential services such as water supply, sewer, and refuse.
“The best way to avoid litigation is to engage early and pay your bills timeously. We don’t have incentives, for us, the best we can get is quality services,” she said.
Ms Chingwaramusee reiterated council’s call for engagements, which she said is key.
“Ratepayers who approach the finance department before legal action can negotiate payment plans and avoid litigation, disconnections, and attachment costs. The blitz remains ongoing as Council pushes toward its US$1,5m recovery goal,” she said.
