eThekwini says rent hike for council housing is necessary
The eThekwini Municipality has defended its decision to increase rent on some of its residential units by 10%.
These properties are rented mainly by lower-income earners.
Opposition parties have slammed the increase, saying it will add to the burden of people already suffering financial knocks from the measures put in place to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The City says it's not chasing profits through the hike - but making provisions for the maintenance, repairs and general upkeep of the properties.
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Municipal spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela says currently - the lowest rent is R65.
"It is very subsidised. It is not taking us anywhere in terms of operating the buildings, whether you are talking about the issues of maintenance, cleaning up and electricity or water.
"I can confirm that indeed they are going up by 10% - meaning that it is now going to be R71.50 from R65."
