City revenue from parking less than expected

JAKARTA (JP): The United Development Party (PPP) faction at the City Council has expressed regret that the city's revenue from parking is only approximately Rp 11 billion, Rp 5 billion less than expected.

The party spokesman, Helmy AR Syihab, said in the general hearing on the 1995/1996 city budget bill yesterday that the parking agency is allocated more than Rp 10 billion for its operation.

"This means the parking agency can practically contribute only Rp 1 billion to the city budget," he said.

He said he had no idea how the parking agency was able to contribute Rp 3.5 billion in revenues in 1992/1993 and the same amount in the 1993/1994 fiscal year.

Speaking about taxes, Helmy said that from 14 tax sources, the administration could collect Rp 1.28 trillion this fiscal year, or Rp 0.04 trillion more than the target.

"However, motorized vehicles, water transportation and entertainment taxes have brought in very little money so far," he said.

Housing

The faction also criticized district and subdistrict officials who refuse to occupy the official residences built for them.

"Most of the officials eligible for the houses are reluctant to occupy them, which they say are too far from their offices. This is another waste of money," Helmy said.

The city administration has spent huge amounts of money from its annual budgets in the last five years for the construction of official residences. At least 10 houses are built for city officials every year. "However, the houses are now used by the officials' nieces or other relatives," he said.

"The administration should have explained this and taken firm action against the officials," he said.

Deputy Governor for Economic and Development Affairs TB. M. Rais said he appreciated the councilor's criticism and suggestions. (yns)