The eThekwini Municipality has certified a raft of incentives for businesses that were affected during the unrest.
On Thursday, the eThekwini full council made official the rates relief rebate that could go up to 75% for businesses which cannot be operational as a result of looting, torching or any other situation that came about from last month’s unrest.
“In terms of rates relief to property owners where the building is non-functional completely, a 75% rebate will be awarded for a period of six to twelve months. A multi-disciplinary team will assess applications based on individual merits. Criteria for rebates are stipulated on the application forms,” said Msawakhe Mayisela, eThekwini Municipality’s spokesperson.
The City will also be establishing a one-stop centre with the participation of all relevant government departments for business support.
The centre is expected to open soon, said Mayisela.
Other incentives that got support from a majority of political parties in the council, include the wavering of reconnection fees.
“There will be special provisions for building plan submissions in respect of properties damaged during the unrest,” said Mayisela.
Bed and breakfast establishments will be granted an extension of rates rebates for a further three months commencing July 1, with an additional 29% rebate over and above the current 35%.
Tenants of council owned properties that are non-functional due to the unrest will be given a rental holiday and informal traders will have a three-month rental holiday as of July 1.
“Apart from revenue loss, it is anticipated that the unrest has placed several planned investments in jeopardy, tarnishing business and consumer confidence. The City is working on an intensive marketing campaign to rebuild tourism and attract investment,” said Mayisela.
