Diana Nherera
Norton Town Council has developed its 2027 Annual Strategic Performance Plan following the successful review of its 2026 Strategic Plan.
The review workshop also resulted in the formulation of performance contracts for the council chairperson, Councillor Action Mataruse, and Town Secretary Mr Kizito Muhomba.
Presenting his report at the 312th Ordinary Council Meeting held at Norton Town Council on Friday, Mr Muhomba said the performance contracting process would be cascaded to all council employees.
He said all performance contracts were expected to be finalised by December 31, 2026.
“Arising from the workshop, council is going to undertake an exercise to.align the Annual Strategic Performance Plan, Budget and Procurement Plan to ensure that financial resources are appropriately allocated towards the implementation of planned projects and programmes,” he said.
Mr Muhomba said Norton Town Council procured 10 skip bins, a tractor-drawn water bowser and a backhoe loader while delivery of a new refuse compactor is still pending.
He said these acquisitions complemented equipment previously procured by council as part of ongoing efforts to recapacitate service delivery operations.
Mr Muhomba told the full council that council continues to prioritise the acquisition of modern equipment to enhance operational efficiency and improve service delivery.
“A formal request has since been submitted to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works for a date for the official commissioning of the equipment,” he said.
Mr Muhomba said council has commenced refurbishment and maintenance works on the building situated behind the Human Resources Offices which is earmarked to accommodate the Procurement Management Unit and other council officers.
He said the initiative is intended to alleviate office congestion, improve working conditions and enhance operational efficiency.
“Efforts are also underway to expedite the completion of outstanding repairs and maintenance works at the fire station to improve operational readiness,” said Mr Muhomba.
He said council has intensified drainage clearance and maintenance activities across all wards in preparation for the forthcoming rainy season.
“The exercise is aimed at improving storm water drainage, preventing blockages and minimising the risk of flooding in residential and commercial areas,” said Mr Muhomba.
He said Local Government and Public Works Minister Garwe had directed all local authorities to allocate two percent of their annual budgets towards disaster preparedness.
“Accordingly council would make the necessary provision in its 2027 annual budget to strengthen disaster preparedness, risk mitigation and emergency response capacity,” he said.
Mr Muhomba said construction work has commenced on Muchecheresi road in Twinlakes as part of council’s ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure accessibility and service delivery within the town.
He said the training of municipal police recruits, which started on Monday is progressing as scheduled.
“The training programme is going to run for 21 working days and is intended to equip the recruits with the necessary skills and competencies to effectively discharge their duties,” said Mr Muhomba.
