Staff Reporter
The Municipality of Redcliff says its US$19.4 million 2026 budget has been approved by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, subject to conditions that include the completion of outstanding audits.
In a press statement, Public Relations Manager Michael Kundai Magoronga said the approval was granted in terms of Section 47 (1) of the Public Finance Management Act.
“The approved budget represents a significant reduction from the 2025 budget of US$25 million, reflecting Council’s commitment to aligning expenditure with revenue realities while prioritising efficient service delivery,” said Magoronga.
He said the ministry directed council to expedite its audits, adding that the 2024 audit has been completed while work is underway to finalise the 2025 audit.
“We are pleased to advise that the 2024 audit has already been completed and Council is currently working on finalising the 2025 audit, thereby complying with the Government directive,” he said.
Magoronga said council reduced business rates by 10 percent and cut expected revenue from licence fees by about 66 percent in line with government policy to improve the ease of doing business.
“These deliberate interventions are aimed at making operating costs more affordable and creating a more conducive environment for businesses,” he said.
The municipality called on residents and the business community to pay their rates on time to support service delivery.
“All ratepayers are encouraged to promptly settle their current bills, while those with arrears should engage Council to arrange workable payment plans,” said Magoronga.
The council said it remains committed to improving service delivery and the livelihoods of residents.
