Call for councillors to reject City budget

CIVIC organisations from Ward 55 have united in calling on councillors to vote against the City’s proposed 2025/26 budget, raising concerns about tariff increases, legal compliance, and spending priorities.

- TARA ISAACS

Residents’ associations from Tijgerhof, Milnerton, Brooklyn, Ysterplaat, and Rugby have submitted letters and open statements challenging key elements of the budget.

Their central argument is that tariff hikes should be limited to inflation-linked increases, and infrastructure upgrades funded by cutting wasteful expenditure.

Public participation on the revised budget is running until June 13.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has defended the R40 billion infrastructure budget - the largest of any South African city - saying it delivers quality services at tariffs lower than other metros.

“We've listened to Capetonians and will propose further relief measures to soften the impact of increases,” said Hill-Lewis.

He warned that delaying critical infrastructure projects is not an option, stressing the City’s commitment to maintaining essential services.