With reference to Mafube Local Municipality's (MLM) "excess" assets that were shamefully sold at public auction last week, the following is a major source of concern for Mafube Business Forum (MBF):
During 2020, Mafube Local Municipality (MLM) purchased 4 new trucks, with the help of a COVID grant award from the central government. It is not clear what the grant amounted to and how much of it was spent on the purchase of the trucks, as no reference could be found in the municipality's financial statements. Current replacement costs are estimated to be in the region of R1.5 to R2.0 million per unit for the two refuse compactor trucks and two water tankers. Either way, it involved a huge expense, which was ultimately funded by the taxpayer.
The vehicles represent a significant investment in service delivery assets. In light of the mandatory provincial intervention in MLM, one would expect proper management systems to be in place to ensure that the trucks are effectively used in the service delivery role, for the benefit of the community, and properly maintained for a long time to ensure service life.
From what can be seen on the streets of our towns, this is not the case. The relatively new "white fleet" is definitely underutilised and apparently poorly maintained. In addition, the trucks are operating illegally without current licenses, and in the case of the refuse compactor truck operating in Villiers and Qalabotjha, the number plates have been removed for some unknown reason. This truck disappeared for a while, apparently stolen and was later found in a province in the North. It is doubtful whether the matter was ever properly investigated and whether anyone employed by MLM was ever held accountable. This matter was brought to the attention of the Municipal Manager, the Administrator and councilors present at the public meetings of October 2022.
Now, a full year later, there is still no evidence of any action being taken, and the trucks are still being used illegally. It is doubtful whether the heavy vehicles owned by MLM are taken for their annual roadworthiness tests as required under applicable legislation. As a result, it is likely that the municipality's insurer will repudiate any accident claim and refuse to pay out. This puts not only the operator/driver at risk, but also the fleet manager and ultimately the municipal manager, in the event of a civil claim brought by a municipal worker or a member of the public.
It is also worrying that, of the 4 "new" vehicles, none still have their spare wheels, and even the spare wheel mount and lifting mechanisms have been removed from 3 of the vehicles, which renders the vehicles not roadworthy.
Both water tankers are leaking – the construction of the water tanks appears to be substandard and not fit for purpose to deliver water to the community.
MBF invites residents, business owners and taxpayers to visit our offices at 18A Church Street, Frankfort on Mondays to Thursdays from 08h30 to 16h00 and Fridays 08h30 to 12h00. Call or send a WhatsApp message to Marina on 079 145 4295. Visit our website www.mafubebf.org and follow us on Facebook.