Navua is poised to gain municipal status, allowing it to operate as an independent entity with the ability to levy its own fees and charges, according to Azam Khan, Acting Chief Executive of the Lami Town Council. Currently, the Lami Town Council incurs approximately $15,000 monthly to manage administrative responsibilities for the Navua area, which is not yet formally recognized as a municipality.
During his testimony before the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Khan pointed out that all payroll, financial management, and reporting for Navua are currently conducted from Lami. He noted, “It is not a municipality at the moment; the payroll and finances are all maintained at Lami and supervised from here.” This administrative dynamic contributes to the monthly costs, which cover both operational commitments and necessary funds to provide services in the delegated area.
Khan acknowledged the significance of government support, noting that the subsidy for Navua has increased in the recent budget. He emphasized the Lami Town Council’s collaboration with the ministry to expedite Navua’s designation as a town. This move toward municipal status is seen as a beneficial step that would not only streamline operations but also empower Navua to manage its infrastructure and services more effectively.
The shift towards granting municipal status is hopeful news for residents of Navua, as it may lead to improved local governance and a more tailored approach to community needs in the near future.