On public health and regulatory compliance, Fakudze presented an update on liquor outlet inspections and health certification.
She said across the city, there are 103 licensed liquor outlets. Of these, 41 outlets, representing 40 per cent, are located in commercial areas and another 41 outlets, also 40 per cent, are in residential areas.
A total of 13 outlets, representing 12 per cent, are in industrial areas, while three outlets, or 3 per cent, are in public facilities, three are under suspended services and two outlets, representing 2 per cent, are in open spaces. 
Fakudze said of the 103 outlets, 41 that are located in residential areas are regarded as non-conforming.
She said Council is guided by the Liquor Licensing Act, 2023 in regulating liquor trading.
She cited Section 4(1) of the Act, which states that a person shall only conduct a liquor business in an area designated and approved by the local authority.
She said Council follows the town planning scheme as a guide for land use to ensure proper zoning and compliance.
Fakudze said Section 17(1) of the Act provides for complaints by residents, stating that a complaint in writing received from not less than ten adult persons who are resident within a distance of one kilometre from a licensed premises situated in the local authority area, may be lodged with the Secretary of the Board.
She said Council continues to monitor compliance issues including noise nuisance from loud music, public urination, littering, drinking in public,
blockage of access roads and residents’ properties, disruptive patron behaviour posing safety risks to children, non-compliance with operating hours, sales of alcohol to underage individuals and other recurrent licensing and regulatory violations.
Fakudze said Council, through its Public Health and compliance teams, continues to conduct inspections and health certification to ensure that liquor outlets comply with health and licensing requirements.
She mentioned that the Municipality is working closely with the Liquor Licensing Board and relevant stakeholders to address non-conforming outlets and to strengthen enforcement.
She also stated that the Council remains committed to improving service delivery, promoting social development and ensuring orderly and compliant business operations within the city.
