MAKHADO (LOUIS TRICHARDT) – The Chairpersons Association (CA) expressed its appreciation of a very neutral budget in a letter to the mayor of Makhado, Cllr Rhulani Nkuzana.

In reaction to his budget speech, the CA says that, although the budget is neutral, it is result driven.

It expressed concern, however, that the R10 per household in the rural areas will not be collected, although a 50% success rate is budgeted for.

"We also believe that the salary bill can be reduced through hard work and productivity to 30% of the total budget.

"It is also of great importance to consider for future purposes that we are losing the revenue raised by water and sewage supply services and that we are possibly going to lose our revenue in respect of electricity supplies as well. The municipality should now already work towards a goal where unjustified costs will be limited to the minimum and where productivity, as well as good administration and good corporate governance will be enhanced to the maximum. Otherwise, the public is going to pay very dearly in future in respect of taxes to be raised."

The Chairpersons Association expressed appreciation for the mayor's positive attitude and noted with thanks the positive progress he and his council are making in terms of good and efficient administration.

The CA also wished the mayor success in the fight against crime and corruption.

"We regard these as a cancer which is impoverishing the public and private sectors and the ordinary people on the street," the letter reads.