However, some people are complaining that the debt collectors are overcharging them. One woman, who preferred anonymity, said that when she went to pay P600 at GCC offices recently, she was told to go and pay at one of the debt collectors. "When I arrived there (at the debt collectors) I was told to pay P900, which I refused," she said. She added that she went back to the GCC where they accepted her money. She said that the debt collectors do not care whether one has been owing the council for many years or just a short time. Matenge confirmed that one of the debt collectors charges extra money for administration costs. He said that GCC has no control over what extra amount the company can charge. He said that the Township Act allows GCC to engage the services of debt collectors. He added that they are outsourcing the collection of debt since their staff is overwhelmed with work. Matenge warned that those who fail to pay debts will face the wrath of the law. He said that they will take defaulters to court if necessary. He confirmed that engagement of debt collectors will always be an option if people fail to pay rates.
