KZN MEC calls for zero-rating of property rates

IN A move aimed at tackling the financial strain on schools, KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) MEC Martin Meyer announced plans to advocate for the reduction or zero-rating of property rates on educational institutions across the province.

- THOBEKA NGEMA

A dispute arose in December over an outstanding municipal rates bill of R500 million, pitting the DPWI against the eThekwini Municipality. The municipality cut off water and electricity to provincial government offices, demanding full payment of the outstanding debt. The move disrupted critical services, particularly at Transport licensing centres, drawing sharp criticism from Meyer.

Speaking to the media after donating stationery at Durban School for the Hearing Impaired yesterday, Meyer highlighted the paradox of funding education while simultaneously burdening schools with substantial municipal property rates.

Highlighting the department's recent challenges with rates payments, Meyer said: “Our department faced significant challenges concerning our rates, including the widely known issue with eThekwini. We will be prioritising efforts this year to improve that relationship”