28 May 2025 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Approves Final Budget for 2025/2026 Financial Year
Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Approves Final Budget for 2025/2026 Financial Year
28 May 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has approved its final annual budget with a surplus on 27 May 2025 for the 2025/2026 financial year which is accessible from 1 July. Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel tabled the planned expenses and revenues of the GRDM which was unanimously adopted by Council.
“I would like to express my gratitude to all officials involved in the planning of this budget, and to the GRDM Council for its unanimous endorsement. This is not merely the Mayor’s budget, but a budget for the people, shaped by our shared priorities and values, said Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel.
“It is also important for me to mention that no new loans were taken out to fund this budget. The 2025/2026 budget is fully financed through existing and available resources. We remain committed to responsible and sustainable financial management.”
The total operating revenue for the GRDM is R557,4 million, while the capital budget is R108,9 million.
Where does the GRDM Funding come from?
The GRDM’s funding is primarily sourced from various grants.
- RSC Levies Replacement: R164 101 000
- Equitable Share: R23 925 000
- Local Government Financial Management Grant: R1 000 000
- Municipal Accreditation Grant: R1 500 000
- Expanded Public Works Programme: R2 293 000
- Municipal Fire Service Capacity Support Grant: R3 000 000
- Safety Imitative Implementation: R1 000 000
- Integrated Transport Planning: R982 000
- Rural Roads Asset Management Systems Grant: R2 843 000
Turnaround Strategies for Revenue Enhancement
The properties not required for service delivery will be considered for leasing or alienation. A new tariff will be included for municipal resorts, in particular caravan/tent stands, whereby pensioners who choose to stay for one month up to three months out of season, will be charged R3300.00 per month (all inclusive). This should attract more visitors to our resorts and also boost tourism and spending along the Garden Route.
The GRDM remains committed to delivering quality services and maintaining fiscal discipline.
Feature image: Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel (right) next to the GRDM Deputy Executive Mayor, Ald. Vlancio Donson.
ENDS