By Doreen Mokgolo
- R77-billion budget approved after first meeting collapsed.
- Councillors slam city for keeping controversial R230 electricity surcharge.
The City of Joburg has adopted its adjustment capital budget for the 2024/2025 financial year but residents are still stuck with the unpopular R230 electricity surcharge.
The budget was passed during the 36th extraordinary council meeting on Thursday after a failed first attempt.
A total of 138 councillors voted in favour, while 105 opposed it. No one abstained.
The budget increases the city’s revenue by R1.2 billion, pushing the total to R77 billion.
Although the budget was adopted, political parties criticised the city for not reviewing the fixed R230 charge despite promises to do so.
The surcharge was introduced last year when mayor Dada Morero was still the finance MMC.
It was met with public outrage after being taken through public participation and council processes.
Residents and civil society groups called for a full review of the charge’s financial impact.
They also urged the city to consider other revenue options or implement the fee in phases.
Morero defended the charge, saying: “The R230 electricity availability charge is a fixed fee to ensure sustainable service delivery, infrastructure maintenance and upgrades for a steady electricity supply.
“There needs to be a balance between those who can afford electricity and those who are struggling. This charge will be reviewed in consultation with City Power, Nersa and Eskom.”
ActionSA rejected the budget, calling it anti-poor.
“The budget has many good elements, but the R230 surcharge is hurting residents. In July 2024, Mayor Morero promised to review it. Nothing has been done,” the party said.
The DA also opposed the motion, saying the budget fails to prioritise infrastructure.
DA leader in council Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku said: “The water crisis is crippling businesses across the city. Yet the city still spends on things like furniture and fittings, while operational capital is unclear.”
Pictured above: Joburg Mayor Dada Morero.
Image source: Joburg Mayor Dada Morero Facebook page
