GOVERNMENT has approved Bulawayo City Council’s standstill $105 451 120 budget for 2017, but urged the local authority to reduce its debt overhang and strive to attain a 30:70 salary/service provision ratio requirement.
BY SILAS NKALA
Council spokesperson, Nesisa Mpofu confirmed the development yesterday.
“The revenue budget, which is pegged at $105 457 120, is a standstill budget with no tariff increases, while the capital budget is pegged at $48 109 346. The City of Bulawayo found it necessary not to increase tariffs in order to ease pressure on residents and companies, as the economy is still not performing at expected levels. The council budget was approved on December 16, 2016,” she said.
“However, the effectiveness of this budget hinges on the availability of funds. Ratepayers are, therefore, encouraged to consider the payment for services a priority in order for council to continue providing services. The city extends its gratitude to the ratepayers, who are mindful of their role as partners in the development of Bulawayo by honouring their obligations to council as they make it possible for the city to function.”
Mpofu said the Local Government ministry said Bulawayo needed to reduce the level of debtors and creditors figures and also aim at attaining the 30:70 salary to budget ratio requirement. She said emphasis was also made on the need to bring to date the city’s audited financial statements.
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“The Bulawayo City Council will, therefore, prioritise addressing the issues raised above, which necessitate the support of our stakeholders,” Mpofu said.
The budget shows that 10 administration sections have $16 897 057 expenses, income of $38,054,673 and deficit of $21 157 616, among other departments, such as 20 recreational facilities, 30 protection units, 50 health and general units and 120 works department all under rates and general services.
Under the housing services, there are 10 administrations and 80 housing services.
Under the health and community services, there are 10 administrations, 60 health personnel, 70 health cemeteries, 90 education services and 100 community services.
The budget also deals with 110 estate services, 130 sewerage services, 140 water administrations, 150 water conservations, 160 water deliveries, 170 water purification, and 180 water reticulations.
It also will cater for 40 health and sanitation points under the solid waste management.