Lentswe, Klerksdorp - The Matlosana Municipality has responded to the ongoing billing crisis that has left residents confused and frustrated over massively inflated municipal accounts. Last week, it was reported that the new system, which requires residents to submit their own readings, has been chaotic. Many who complied found their payments were not allocated, their submitted readings were ignored, and they received statements with unrealistic estimated readings. The situation was highlighted by the case of resident Gideon Joubert, whose municipal bill unexpectedly soared to R131 000. While struggling to get answers for their constituents, the DA warned that the failure of this primary revenue stream could lead to a further collapse in service delivery.
In a recent update, the municipality acknowledged the issues, attributing them to a “transition period” as it brings meter reading back under municipal management. According to the municipality, a phased approach has been implemented to train newly appointed meter readers. In the interim, estimated readings were applied to accounts where physical readings were not yet available, which in some cases were higher than average consumption.
The municipality has reassured the public that they can expect to see improvements from February 2026, when accurate, physical readings will begin to correct the interim estimates and ensure fair billing.
Officials also clarified that all meter readings, including those submitted by residents, will only reflect on the following month’s bill, as the city currently charges for consumption one month in arrears. In the meantime, residents are advised to pay an amount based on their expected usage until the corrected, actual readings appear on their statements. The municipality has also stated that credit control and debt collection for November 2025 will only be applied to outstanding balances from October 2025.
While apologising for the inconvenience, the municipality asserts that these steps are part of a necessary modernization of its operations, promising a more reliable and transparent system in the future.
