Billing mess

THE recent months have been characterised by outrage and anger of elderly folk, who simply cannot afford to pay the exorbitant utility bills that keep mounting month by month.

I have written to officials, who have taken three months to reply to me and finally respond with “we’re looking into the matter”, while pensioners and other vulnerable groups are threatened with disconnections and ever increasing surcharges.

The problem is that officials are in denial and will refuse to admit that they have messed up with the new billing system.

Ratepayers aren’t getting their bills and are forced to deal with arrogant staff, who seem to have a “don’t give a damn” attitude.

Durban will never become the most caring city by 2020 if we continue in this manner.

The city needs to get its act together or the citizens will soon revolt against the local government.

COUNCILLOR JONATHAN P ANNIPEN

Chairperson, Minority Front Youth Association