OBJECTORS LAUNCH PETITION TO STOP UIP

Some residents in Hilton oppose the proposed urban improvement precinct (UIP). The say the scheme should be voluntary instead of being enforced on all the residents in the town.

The group is currently circulating a petition which can be read and signed at https://bit. ly/41M60j8.

In the petition they claim that the Love Hilton UIP will result in increased costs for local residents, by adding a mandatory levy onto their rates statement. This money will be collected by uMngeni Local Municipality and handed over to Love Hilton.

“If approved, this form of billing would allow the collection of funds even from individuals who abstain from supporting the implementation of the proposed levy,” the objectors said.

Love Hilton has said that the cost will be based on the [rates] valuation of a property, which is another area of concern for those against the plans.

“During a recent public meeting organised by Love Hilton (April 22), it was highlighted that a significant proportion of the properties in the area are valued between R2 million and R3 million. As a result, the majority of residents will be subject to a new mandatory levy ranging from R146.94 to R225.51 per month,” the objectors say in their petition.

“While residents have recognised the value in certain proposed projects upon reviewing the business plan, the primary concern for many remains affordability, irrespective of the potential benefits that the projects may bring.

“The increasing cost of living has put a financial strain on many South Africans at present. While some may view the proposed levy as reasonable, making it mandatory may not be helpful for families who are struggling to make ends meet and cannot afford the additional expense.

“In addition, the average South African is already burdened with significant taxation from various sources. Introducing a new tax to the residents of Hilton would be impractical.

“Labelling Hilton residents who are unable to afford the new levies as ‘freeloaders’, as done by some in the community, goes against the spirit of community and is not productive.

“Our proposal suggests that Love Hilton adopts a similar approach to Love Howick, a non-profit organisation within the uMngeni Local Municipality, which operates on a donation-based model.

“We are advocating for a transparent and fair voting process in regards to the proposed UIP. At present, opting into Love Hilton is a simplified process that involves the collection of consent forms.

“Conversely, those who oppose the UIP are required to provide written feedback to the municipality. We believe that the mandate of such a levy should only occur through fair elections, which are independently audited.”

Residents who wish to object to the plans can send an email to Mzi Hloba, the municipal manager, using the email nonto. nzuza@umngeni.gov.za by May 22. These emails can be copied to saynouip@gmail.com