The FF Plus advocates that Indigent pensioners in Secunda in the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality (Bethal, Charl Cilliers, Embalenhle, Evander, Kinross, Leandra, Secunda, Trichardt, Emzinoni) must henceforth be exempt from property taxes as well.
It is already the case for indigent pensioners in all the other towns.
This follows a motion tabled to the Municipal Council by the FF Plus, requesting that certain pensioners (60 years and older) in Secunda be classified as indigent so they can qualify for discount on their municipal bills.
“To be considered indigent, applicants typically have to meet certain criteria, such as having a monthly household income of R20 000 or less. It is calculated based on an income scale,” said Cllr Aranda Nel-Buitendag of the FF Plus.
The party’s objective with its proposal is to support elderly residents’ basic needs, alleviate financial pressure, promote dignity and improve quality of life.
Furthermore, the FF Plus proposes that elderly residents with municipal debt should be treated equally under the current compassionate policy by considering debt write-offs on a fair and non-discriminatory basis for all property owners aged 60 and over.
Even though the ANC rejected the motion, it was adopted after the DA offered its support. The outcome of the vote was 32 in favour of and 27 against. It is now referred to the relevant committee.
Acknowledging the significant contributions senior citizens make to the community, the party also recognises the financial restrictions on many elderly who live on a fixed income. The current economic climate has only made matters worse.
In accordance with the principles of non-discrimination and equality enshrined in the Constitution, the Municipality is obliged to ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all residents, regardless of their race or ethnic background.
