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30/05/2002 11:24 AM - (SA) Property value flaws raise heated debate 31-05-2002
The call came from Somerset West resident Norman McFarlane, who said he was aware that a review would add to the R100 million already spent on the general valuation project, "but is it not better to do it properly?", he asked. The meeting had been arranged by the City of Cape Town to address locals' concerns about the property valuation project. Residents heard that it could take at least a year, and maybe even longer, for the appeal process to be finalised by the city's envisaged six Valuation Boards. Although residents may have objections to their valuations, they will nevertheless be billed on them from July 1. A number of residents provided examples of what they regarded as grossly inaccurate valuations at the meeting. The bitter reality is that we as ratepayers have been subjected to what I believe is a flawed process. It could take many years for valuations to be adjudicated. We are subjected to a bill of R100 million for valuations, have the results of that process foisted on us, and then have to pay our accounts until such time as our objections are adjudicated. Is this fair and equitable Mr McFarlane asked. "It was a flawed valuation process and should be reviewed," he said. Speaking from the floor, councillor Anton Fuchs said he was 'also uncomfortable' with the valuation process. "There is something wrong with the valuations in Somerset West. It seems to me it will be unfair to expect people to pay when it could be a real financial burden to them. The city should consider a situation where, if a ratepayer raises an objection and the facts warrant it, it looks at the payment situation." Residents may lodge objections against their valuations until June 28.
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