News / National
BCC goes after household property
03 Jul 2024 at 11:29hrs | Views
The cash-strapped Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has implemented stringent measures to recover over US$50 million owed by defaulting ratepayers. These measures include attaching and auctioning off properties belonging to residents and businesses who have failed to settle their bills.
As of now, more than 2,000 households have had their water supplies disconnected due to unpaid bills. In Lobengula suburb alone, 622 households have been referred to BCC's legal section for debt recovery through court proceedings.
The Messenger of Court has been engaged to oversee the auctioning of attached properties, including household furniture and shop equipment. This move has sparked criticism from residents and community leaders like Mr. Winos Dube of the Bulawayo Residents Association, who expressed concern over the impact on already struggling residents.
BCC defended its actions, citing the need to address the city's staggering debt and ensure revenue collection. They emphasized that residents are provided with ample notices and opportunities to settle their bills before legal action is taken.
Despite these measures, there are calls for BCC to adopt a more compassionate and transparent approach in its debt collection process, considering the economic hardships faced by residents. The council has reiterated its commitment to engaging residents and offering support to those facing challenges in paying their bills.
The government recently directed BCC to enhance its revenue collection efficiency, setting targets for improvement as part of approving the city's 2024 budget and auditing its financial accounts.
As of now, more than 2,000 households have had their water supplies disconnected due to unpaid bills. In Lobengula suburb alone, 622 households have been referred to BCC's legal section for debt recovery through court proceedings.
The Messenger of Court has been engaged to oversee the auctioning of attached properties, including household furniture and shop equipment. This move has sparked criticism from residents and community leaders like Mr. Winos Dube of the Bulawayo Residents Association, who expressed concern over the impact on already struggling residents.
Despite these measures, there are calls for BCC to adopt a more compassionate and transparent approach in its debt collection process, considering the economic hardships faced by residents. The council has reiterated its commitment to engaging residents and offering support to those facing challenges in paying their bills.
The government recently directed BCC to enhance its revenue collection efficiency, setting targets for improvement as part of approving the city's 2024 budget and auditing its financial accounts.
Source - The Chronicle
