How City Improvement Districts Fill Municipal Service Gaps
31 Mar 2025
As South African
municipaliies grapple with financial mismanagement, evidenced by only 13.2%
achieving clean audits in 2022/23, City Improvement Districts (CIDs) have
become vital in sustaining urban functionality. Since 1994, these privately
funded zones have complemented struggling local governments by delivering
services where municipalities fall short.
Property owners
within CIDs pay levies that fund:
·
Security patrols (compensating
for inadequate policing)
·
Enhanced cleaning (offsetting
declining municipal services)
·
Infrastructure upkeep (preventing
neighborhood decay)
In cities like
Johannesburg, CIDs have revitalised declining areas. Excellerate’s
Precinct Management Division, manages these districts by deploying security
personnel, maintenance crews, and infrastructure teams, directly addressing
gaps caused by municipal resource constraints.
"We’re not just
maintaining spaces, we’re creating environments where businesses and
communities thrive," says Adel Landsberg, Excellerate’s
Commercial Director. "Enhanced public spaces boost property values
and support sustainable urban growth."
When municipalities
fail to curb water losses, electricity theft, or infrastructure neglect,
property values plummet. CIDs counteract this decline by ensuring consistent
service standards, protecting investments and attracting commerce even amid
broader governance challenges.
While long-term
solutions require stronger municipal governance, CIDs provide immediate
stability. This dual approach, combining institutional reform with
private-sector collaboration, offers a pragmatic path to rebuilding South
African cities, one district at a time.
Discover how
Excellerate's Precinct Management Division can help your property or business
district reach its full potential. Our team of urban management experts is
ready to create customised solutions that enhance security, cleanliness, and
overall appeal in your area.
Visit our website: www.excellerateprecinctmanagement.co.za,
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learn how we can partner with you to elevate your urban space and maximise your
property's value.