COMMUNITY DRIVEN
The establishment of Siti (a Special Rates Area) was initiated by the community rather than the Municipality. It began with community members who championed the need for environmental improvements within the defined area.
FIVE-YEAR BUSINESS PLAN
With expert advice, the steering committee have compiled a five-year business plan, which includes a motivation report, an implementation plan, and a budget that outlines how the improvements will be achieved. This plan was presented to the community during a public meeting.
VOTING / SUPPORT
Subsequently, property owners are now being approached for their support, requiring a majority to give written consent for the formation of an SRA.
Once the necessary consent is obtained, the steering group submits an application to the Municipality. The application is then advertised in the media, and property owners are notified, allowing them at least 60 days to provide comments or objections. The Municipality considers the application, along with any objections, during a full sitting of the Council.
APPROVAL & APPOINTMENT
After the Municipality approves the application, a Not-For-Profit Company (NPC) will be established, and a board is elected. The NPC must register for VAT, open a bank account, and be registered as a vendor with the Municipality, among other requirements. All these procedures must be completed before any payment is made to the SRA by the Municipality.