Interest-free payment plans for defaulters
THE Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has come up with interest-free payment plans for defaulting residents in a bid to recover over $90 million it is owed.
In a statement, town clerk Mr Christopher Dube said council had come up with payment plans after considering the prevailing difficult economic environment.
“It is accordingly proposed as follows: council enters into arrangements with interested consumers where council will park the overdue debt and encourage payment of all current charges and instalments towards the parked debt religiously over an agreed period,” said Mr Dube.
“Consumers will be expected to pay their current bill plus a portion of the arrears over an agreed period. Consumers’ accounts with arrangements that are honoured will not be disconnected or be subject to any debt recovery measures.”
He said once consumers have agreed with council on payment plans, accounts become interest free, subject to further review.
“Interest will be maintained on accounts where there is no agreement. In cases of breach of agreement, interest will be reinstated,” said Mr Dube.
BCC senior Public Relations Officer Mrs Nesisa Mpofu urged residents to come forward and discuss their payment plans.
“Vulnerable and disadvantaged communities can approach their councillors on proper systems in place to assist them,” said Mrs Mpofu.
The move by council to enter into interest fee payment plans with defaulters comes at a time when it is disconnecting water for those owing.
Mrs Mpofu said the disconnections were in line with council’s by-laws.
She said before disconnecting water, council issues a warning to defaulters and notices are given door to door.
Mrs Mpofu urged residents to settle their bills to ensure continued services.
“The municipality has a desire to provide efficient and excellent services” she said. — @YUshamba