The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) finds itself in a financial quandary as it struggles to recover over US$1.4 million in unpaid rent from more than 12,000 rental properties scattered across the city.
According to the council’s latest minutes, the mounting arrears have become a pressing concern, threatening the provision of essential services for residents.
The staggering sum owed by tenants has placed considerable strain on the local authority, which heavily relies on rental income to sustain various municipal operations.
With the issue persisting over time, some residents have accumulated substantial arrears, exacerbating the council’s financial woes.
Efforts to mitigate the situation have prompted calls for proactive measures from the BCC.
Suggestions include stringent enforcement of rental agreements, offering flexible payment arrangements to tenants facing financial hardship, and resorting to legal recourse against those with significant outstanding debts.
Addressing this challenge is paramount for the Bulawayo City Council, as it endeavors to safeguard vital funds earmarked for the maintenance and development of the city.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
