Concerns are mounting over Mangaung’s draft budget, with opposition parties warning that proposed changes to property valuations and rates will place an unfair financial burden on residents.
According to the city, residential property values have increased between 14% and 25%. However, figures contained in the draft budget suggest a far steeper rise, with total residential property values climbing by as much as 49% since 2022. This discrepancy has raised serious questions about the accuracy and transparency of the valuation process.
While the municipality has proposed a 5% tariff reduction and an additional R80,000 exemption, these measures are widely seen as insufficient to offset the sharp increase in property values. The likely outcome, critics argue, is that residents will ultimately pay more in property rates despite the proposed relief measures. Speaking to Bloemfontein Courant, DA ward councillor Tjaart van der Walt added that in a metro already struggling with low economic growth and poor payment levels, such an increase could deepen financial strain on households, reduce compliance, and further destabilise the municipality’s finances.
The DA has further called on Executive Mayor Gregory Nthatisi to urgently address these concerns. “The party is demanding an independent audit of the valuation roll, a clear explanation for the reported 49% increase in residential property values, and a detailed breakdown of how different households will be affected, including measures to mitigate the impact,” Van der Walt said.
The party has also proposed the introduction of a more equitable rebate system, similar to that used in Cape Town. “There, residents benefit from phased property rate relief based on income levels. In contrast, Mangaung currently offers full relief only to households earning below R7,000 per month, with no additional support for those earning slightly above this threshold,” he added.
Residents are now being urged to actively participate in the budget process by submitting comments and practical proposals within the legal framework. The draft budget and tariffs are available on the Mangaung Municipality website, and public input will be crucial in shaping the final outcome.
Bloemfontein Courant reached out to the metro, but no response had been provided by the time of print.
