Message from Cllr Bridget Steer (Ward 87): I've noticed that some residents are confusing property valuations with rates. The property valuations were done in 2018 and are revised every 5 years. The Rates (what CoJ charges you base on the value), are adjusted every year. The rates in the presentation are the current rates for this financial year 2020/2021. These will be adjusted effective 1st July. The city is asking for comments on the rates. As an example you could say that the pensioners rebate should apply after a higher value - currently R2,5 million should be increased to R2,75 million; That problem properties illegal land use penalty rates should be increased from 6 times to 10 times; That there should be no rates increase due to COVID / Economic issues, or lack of service delivery etc. I hope this clarifies the purpose of the Rates policy inputs.