The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) is taking a proactive approach to enhance revenue collection by establishing a dedicated task force and implementing a Geographic Information System (GIS) survey. This initiative aims to identify untaxed properties and bridge the gap between actual revenue and the projected budget. The decision was made during a recent general body meeting, where concerns were raised about the municipality's revenue generation efforts. The formation of a specialized task force, the auctioning of leased properties, and the use of private agencies for the GIS survey are among the strategies to bolster revenue. The HDMC is committed to optimizing resource mobilization.
In an unprecedented move, the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has announced its intention to constitute a dedicated task force and deploy a Geographic Information System (GIS) survey. This initiative aims to identify properties yet to be taxed, thereby enhancing the revenue collection process.
This landmark decision transpired during the latest general body meeting held in Hubballi. Notably, this meeting convened at the newly refurbished hall after a hiatus of a year. The prominent subject of debate was methods to augment the HDMC's revenue stream, a concern passionately raised by ex-mayor Veeranna Savadi.
Savadi didn't mince words when criticizing HDMC officials for their lacklustre approach toward revenue generation. The former mayor cited the vast gap between the actual revenue and the projected budget of Rs 1,138 crore, urging the officials to rally and collect at least Rs 900 crores. He expressed his dissatisfaction over the officials' restricted focus on routine property tax collection, neglecting potential revenue from avenues like leased properties, newly erected commercial structures, and various departmental properties, including railways and transportation.
Furthering his proposition, Savadi recommended the establishment of a specialized task force, incorporating seasoned officials from diverse departments. He emphasized the need for a rigorous approach, urging the officials to act tough without succumbing to any external pressures.
Other corporators, including Imran Yaligar, Suvarna Kalakuntla, and Arif Bhadrapur, echoed Savadi's sentiments, expressing their discontent over the revenue generation attempts by the HDMC. Floor leader, Shivu Hiremath, furthered the discourse by urging the officials to undertake necessary steps for revenue mobilization and furnish a comprehensive report during the forthcoming general body meeting.
Responding to the concerns raised, HDMC commissioner, Ishwar Ullagaddi, pledged immediate action. He confirmed the impending formation of the special task force and intimated that leased properties would soon be auctioned. Additionally, he announced the deployment of private agencies for conducting the GIS survey.
Concluding the discussion, Mayor Veena Bhardwad decreed a focused approach to revenue mobilization from the officials. The meeting also witnessed debates over the city's cleanliness, the appointment of pourakarmikas, and other pressing matters. Addressing these concerns, Commissioner Ullagaddi assured stern action against officials failing in their duty of maintaining cleanliness standards.
In conclusion, in a resolute attempt to enhance their revenue, HDMC has embraced innovative strategies like the GIS survey and the formation of a special task force. These initiatives underscore the corporation's commitment to optimal resource mobilization.