8 July 2004

By Lebofsa Masha

MOGALE CITY has put in place stringent credit-control measures to encourage residents to pay for services supplied by the municipality.

Non-payment affects the municipality's ability to deliver a quality service to residents, says Calvin Seerane, the head of the portfolio committee on finance.

"Yes, it is a problem, though not exclusive to Mogale City. We put stringent credit control in place from June, which we hope will persuade people to pay," he says.

The culture of payment should become second nature to residents, says Seerane.

He does not say how many defaulters the municipality has identified, but points out that some people can afford to pay yet do not.

"The problem is those who can pay but don't," he says.

He urges residents who have trouble paying their bills to approach the municipality. "We are flexible and will try and accommodate them."

Seerane says: "People should come forward so that we can look at each case on its merits."

The municipality provides electricity, water, refuse removal and social facilities - such as sports and recreation centres and libraries.

The councillor also says the municipality supplies six kilolitres of water and 150 kilowatts of electricity a month free, in accordance with the national policy.

People with queries about their accounts can telephone 011 951 2322.