​12/02/2016: Current economic conditions to be considered when the 2016/2017 Rates Policy review begins 
 
The City of Johannesburg is to consider current economic conditions facing property owners when it embarks on its property Rates Policy review process for 2016/2017.
The policy, which is reviewed annually, defines and categorizes all properties within Johannesburg and allows the City to generate rates revenue by assigning a tariff to the property values obtained in the General Valuation Roll.

City’s spokesperson, Kgamanyane Maphologela says the Rates Policy review process for the 2016/2017 financial year will be done with consideration to the following factors:

Recent interest rates hikes
the resultant reduction in disposable income
the current high cost of living
a slowdown in economic growth
an increase in property owners depending on social assistance; and
businesses requesting more rates relief.

“We are mindful that our consumers and property owners are facing difficult times and as a City we are eager to engage our residents on a policy which will be sustainable, yet beneficial to all parties involved. We also need to ensure that tariffs are equitable and affordable to our residents – so it is in the best interest of all property owners to get involved and help us craft Joburg’s Rates Policy for the 2016/2017 financial year,” says Maphologela.

Residents are urged to participate in the process by offering their suggestions and recommendations to the Property Unit.

How to get involved?

Attend one of the Rates Policy public meetings listed below.
Review the current policy available on the City’s website (www.joburg.org.za) and submit your written suggestions or recommendations via email to ratescomment@joburg.org.zaThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by fax to 086 447 7567
Join the discussion on social media: Twitter @GroupFinance_ and Facebook: Joburg Group Finance

Please note that the deadline for all formal submissions is 15 March 2015.

Public Meeting Information:

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