The Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation has shown it’s reluctant to implement the much-publicised scheme, which financially helps the taxpayers in the lockdown and pandemic. However, the discounted scheme’s flatted as the resolution still awaits an official nod.
In a ‘Mahasabha’ i.e. General meeting on August 13, BJP led MBMC has passed the resolution to give a rebate of 50% in the property tax, if paid before October 31 and 100 per cent rebate on the interest of the pending last year’s property tax.
As reported earlier, MBMC’s financial condition has worsened and it has decided to trim down unnecessary expenditure. Passing the citizen-liken resolution may put the bigger hole in the MBMC’s treasure. Civic body estimated a loss of Rs 52 crores if implemented this scheme. “Moreover, the resolution is yet to reach the administration for a nod,” sources said.
“We have passed the resolution to give relief to our taxpayers as they are struggling financially due to lockdown. Even, we have decided on the cost-cutting. We stopped paying the employees mobile bills. However, the ball is in administration’s court and the final decision will be decided by the commissioner,” said MBMC Mayor Jyotsana Hasnale.
“We have to see all the aspects. The scheme will put a major burden on the already financially stressed municipal corporation. If the scheme implemented, then it will drain the reserved revenue with the MBMC. This will affect the financial health of the Corporation,” said an MBMC officer.
The estimated property tax collections are projected to Rs 235 crore. However, amid lockdown and major chunks shifted to the health department, MBMC is staring at a huge financial crisis which is almost empty. So, implementing the much-publicised scheme will further add to its existing woes.