Online Reporter
Ronald Mpofu, Chronicle Reporter
PLUMTREE residents have voiced strong opposition to a proposed US$12 monthly development levy, which the local council wants each household to pay over a three-year period.
The contentious proposal was tabled during a tense public consultation meeting held yesterday at Mathendele Shops in Ward 1, where residents demanded transparency and accountability over previous failed infrastructure projects.
Ward 1 Councillor Mr Godfrey Ngwenya explained the rationale behind the levy, which would contribute towards rehabilitating the town’s sewer system, road network and installing public lighting.
The council’s chairperson, Mr Similo Ndlovu, told residents that the total cost of the development projects amounted to approximately US$300 per household. To ease the financial burden, the council had resolved to spread the amount over three years, resulting in a monthly charge of US$12.
However, residents were not convinced, with many questioning the council’s track record in implementing similar projects.
Mr Talent Ndlovu from Mathendele Township slammed the council for what he described as the mishandling of a previous sewer rehabilitation project, demanding accountability on how funds had been used.
Town Secretary Mr Thembelani Nyoni admitted the failure of the previous project, attributing it to a technical fault.
He told the gathering that the total budget for the development initiative stood at ZWG27,523,640.16 and that funding would be raised through the proposed levy, with contracts awarded via competitive tender.
“The council’s budget is approved by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works. The Ministry does not deal with individual tariffs but considers the entire budget, including recurrent and capital expenditure,” said Mr Nyoni.
But his explanation did little to appease residents.
Mr Croffart Ndlovu urged council officials to properly plan and consult before demanding levies.
Another resident said, “Utilise existing funds we already pay towards the non-functional ambulance to finance such failed projects; do not drain monies from us.”
The meeting ended without the council giving a definitive date on when the levy would come into effect, leaving many residents dissatisfied and calling for further consultations.
