adminPaul Pindani in Chinhoyi
A POTENTIAL clash is looming between residents and the Chinhoyi Municipality over huge water bills for last month.
The business community and residents were shocked to receive water bills as high as $300 000.
The high water bills have incensed residents who accuse the local authority of not being sensitive to ratepayers.
One resident, Stix Kaduka, questioned the motive behind the high rates and water charges.
“The water charges are too much. I was shocked to be charged $10 000 yet I spend the whole day at work.
“Surely, the Council is robbing us,” said Kaduka.
A pharmacist, who requested anonymity, also questioned the billing system.
“I can’t believe I was charged $380 000 for water. This is absolutely insane,” he said.
A resident, Arimando Antonio, told H-Metro the council was failing to offer satisfactory service delivery but, instead, they were milking residents.
He castigated councillors for turning a blind eye to the concerns of the residents.
“These councillors don’t have residents at heart. All they think of is enriching themselves,” he said.
However, Engineer Last Sauramba, said it was important to engage council’s management over the issue.
“We are the servants of the people and it is our duty to serve the interests of the people.
“The Town Clerk was very forthcoming.
“We raised our concern over the high water and rate charges.
“He promised to look into the issue. It’s imperative to engage rather than confront,” said Eng Sauramba.
Online Reporter