Dysfunctional City won’t take my money

I READ this week that municipalities are owed around R32 billion in unpaid accounts.

Here in Cape Town, the City deems it necessary to continue milking ratepayers with the water levy despite the full dams.

The ineluctable conclusion to be drawn is that the City needs the money.

Against that background, I am at pains to understand why the City doesn’t want motor vehicle licence fees.

My wife began the process several weeks ago using the on-line facility as the City encourages users to do. She was “fortunate” enough to receive an invoice, and she has paid her dues.

But, she has not received the promised licence disc.

After countless ignored emails, she managed to eventually speak to a “person” – a rather disinterested, obnoxious lady that wanted a job not work.

“The disc was posted, and it is the Post Office that is at fault, not the City,” she said. If my wife wants a new disc, she must stand in line for the entire day at an office and ask for a re-print.

The obvious question then is – why drive people to use the online service?

In my case, I too have used the online service, as encouraged by the City. I have a reference number issued three weeks ago, but I still cannot pay because I have not been issued with an invoice and payment advice number.

I want to pay, but the City does not want my money.

So, Mr Ian Nielson, mayoral committee member for finance, City of Cape Town, who has already made a complete mess of the property valuation system ripping off ratepayers with a flawed model, this new mess is on your doorstep.

The two words that made America great are “you’re fired”. Count yourself fortunate Mr Nielsen that you are not in the US because you should be fired for failing this City.

It’s time for change.

This City administration is dysfunctional to say the least as it seems to be in contest with the ANC for this title.

B WATSON | Cape Town