NEWS
MAYORAL BUDGET SPEECH – 2022/2023
Today, it is my privilege as Executive Mayor of Swellendam Municipality to present 2022/2023 Budget, the first budget for the next five-year Local Government term. This Budget represents and informs the new Integrated Development Plan and focuses on sustainability. The sustainability of a Municipality is a crucial driver of building investment trust.
The Integrated Development Plan is the principal plan for Swellendam Municipality that provides a comprehensive agenda for progress and improvement. It aims to coordinate the work of local and other spheres of government in a coherent strategy to improve the quality of life for all the people of Swellendam, Barrydale, Buffeljags, Suurbraak, Infanta, Malgas and Stormsvlei. The IDP must consider the existing conditions, challenges, and limited resources to set a framework within which Swellendam Municipality must function. It highlights the needs of all communities through public participation. It directs Council and the administrative operations to align available resources with these needs through the Budget by executing the Service Delivery and Budget Implementation Plan.
Budgets are always a balancing act and must also give impetus to our Constitution’s obligations to local governments. In terms of Section 152 of the Constitution, the objects of local government are
1- To provide democratic and accountable government for local communities
2- To ensure the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner
3- To promote social and economic development
4- To promote a safe and healthy environment and
5- To encourage the involvement of communities and community organisations in local government matters
Municipal Councils and the Mayor specifically are the custodians of public money, and legislation places a massive responsibility on our shoulders to accrue and expend public money.
The MFMA Section 52 states The Mayor of a Municipality:
(a) MUST provide general political guidance over the fiscal and financial affairs of the municipality
(c) MUST take all reasonable steps to ensure that the Municipality performs its constitutional and statutory functions within the limits of the Municipality’s approved budget
This Budget will stimulate much-needed upgrading and investment in infrastructure, unlock economic opportunities to grow our tax base and enhance all aspects of service delivery.
With a renewed sense of urgency, focus, and energy, this Council will ensure that all Swellendam communities’ needs and challenges are addressed at an accelerated pace…
