By Andrew Muvishi
Marondera Municipality’s parking operations recorded a US$13,478 deficit between January and August 2026 after spending US$232,632 against revenue of US$219,154.
The figures are contained in a budget review presented by council Finance Director John Kachingwe.
“Total revenue for the period between January and August 2026, the local authority generated revenue of US$219,154 from the parking section and spent US$232,632, resulting in an overall shortfall of US$13,478.”
Parking Fees Lead Revenue
Parking fees generated US$128,986, accounting for about 59 percent of total revenue.
The Bus Levy contributed US$62,436, while camping generated US$26,780.
Towing and clearance fees brought in US$233 and US$720 respectively.
Deficit Widens in August
The section recorded surpluses of US$10,917 in January and US$3,483 in February before posting a US$3,351 deficit in March.
It recorded further deficits of US$14,781 in April and US$1,855 in May, followed by an US$8,450 surplus in June.
The operation then returned to deficit in July, losing US$2,175, before recording its biggest monthly shortfall in August.
August revenue stood at US$27,563 against expenditure of US$41,731, resulting in a US$14,167 deficit.
Fuel and Repairs Drive Costs
August expenditure included US$15,900 on fuel and lubricants, US$10,446 on repairs, US$7,713 on salaries and wages and US$4,172 on commissions.
The four expenses totalled more than US$38,000, significantly exceeding the month’s revenue.
The figures raise questions about the costs of operating the parking section, particularly fuel consumption, vehicle repairs and commission arrangements.
With deficits recorded in five of the eight months under review, the council’s budget figures point to sustained pressure on the operation’s finances.
The municipality will need to account for the major cost drivers and demonstrate whether the current parking model can generate sufficient revenue to cover its operating costs.
——————————————————————————————————–
Love what we do?
We’re dedicated to opening up democracy, one article, video and story at a time. If you find our reporting helpful, you can support the Magamba Network team by buying us a coffee. It’s quick, easy, and makes a real difference!
———————————————————————————————————
