Knysna ratepayers could be in for a shock

KNYSNA NEWS - With the determination of new property rates still outstanding, Knysna property owners could face a massive 50% to 75% hike in monthly rates and taxes in terms of the 2023-24 draft municipal budget.

Sharon Sabbagh, Ward 9 Councillor, has described the draft budget tabled by the municipality on 31 March as a shocker. She has held a series of information meetings about the budget – of how and in what form the objections from the public to the municipality should look like.

The Greater Knysna Business Chamber has also sent information to residents in Knysna informing them of how they can go about raising objections to the budget, saying a rate incfease of 33% is excessive and, if implemented, "will lead to job losses and business closures".

Property valuations in the draft valuation roll to be implemented on 1 July indicate that many property values in Knysna could increase by up to 50% - and some even by 300% - which is not in line with the inflation rate increase as recommended by National Treasury, said Sabbagh.

"Mayor Aubrey Tswengwa, who is responsible for the budget, has not realigned the tariff for rates and taxes, resulting in exorbitant increases in the rates bill."

Knysna Municipality's communications team said the municipality has a well-established public participation process that must take place before the budget can be finalised. "This process provides an opportunity for all members of the public to submit their comments, suggestions and objections regarding the budget. The municipality is committed to reviewing all submissions received during this process fairly and transparently," said the team.

It was stressed that the municipality will not engage in discussions or respond to comments regarding the budget through the media. "This is to ensure that the public participation process remains open and fair and that all feedback is considered equally.

"We encourage all members of the public to participate in the public participation process and submit their comments through the appropriate channels."

But Sabbagh said going ahead with the budget while the determination of new property rates was still outstanding is unlawful. Sabbagh said she had brought this to the attention of the Western Cape Provincial Treasury and other institutions of government. Sabbagh, who has held a series of public meetings to address the issue, appealed to property owners to rise up.