City Development Plan -- The City Development Plan is the same as an Integrated Development Plan as defined in the Municipal Systems Act. It is a document which provide a clear, objective and rational framework to guide development and to create a basis from which to measure the performance of a municipality. It links, integrates and co-ordinates plans and development proposals, aligns financial resources and human capacity and act as the policy framework and basis on which the annual budget for the municipality is based.

Outcomes based approach -- The success of integrated development planning must be assessed in terms of the extent to which it has promoted the development objectives of local government. These 'achievements', which should be financially, socially, institutionally and environmentally sustainable, can be termed 'outcomes'.

Outputs -- The work produced and/or delivered and/or results to be achieved

Targets -- A minimum result aimed at.

Batho Pele -- Sotho phrase meaning 'People First'

LIDP -- Local Integrated Development Plan

IMDF -- Integrated Metropolitan Development Framework

JDA -- Johannesburg Development Agency

JRA -- Johannesburg Roads Agency

Capex -- Capital expenditure

Utilities -- Operationally independent, legally separate council-owned companies responsible for the provision of utility services such as water and sanitation, electricity and solid waste. These entities are usually capable of generating financial surpluses as a result of their operations. These surpluses are repatriated to the council as a major revenue source.

Agencies -- Operationally independent, legally separate council-owned companies responsible for the provision of public services such as roads and storm-water, parks and cemeteries. These entities are totally dependent on the council for their revenue.

Enterprises -- Operationally independent, legally separate council-owned companies responsible for the provision of services such as the bus service, the zoo and the fresh produce market. These enterprises are both financially dependent and independent of the council. In the long-term, it is envisaged that these services become financially self-sustaining.

People's centres -- People's centres are decentralised municipal offices that will provide local communities with local government services and customer services such as information, pay-points and enquiry facilities.

GAMAP -- Generally accepted municipal accounting practice

GAAP -- Generally accepted accounting practice