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Author: Debra Sauer

PUBLIC NOTICE: Speaker live on radio discussing Civic Education Awareness project

PUBLIC NOTICE:  Speaker live on radio discussing Civic Education Awareness project

Issued by George Municipality 3 May 2023 for immediate release

 

Speaker of George Council, Cllr Sean Snyman, will be live on Eden FM and Heartbeat FM radio stations respectively next week to discuss the launch of Civic Education Awareness project on 16 and 17th of May.

Listen to the Speaker on 8 May 2023 at 16h30 on Eden FM live discussing the Civic education awareness project and public participation in Local Government. If you miss this discussion, you can catch him live on 11 May 2023 at 16h30 on Heartbeat FM live discussing the same topics.

The Civic Education Awareness Project is one of the key support programmes being rolled out to municipalities by the Public Participation Unit of the Western Cape Department of Local Government.. The main objective of the project is to empower communities by raising awareness of their rights and responsibilities insofar as municipal decision-making processes are concerned.

 

Community Services Directorate, Environmental Services division reviews four by-laws

MEDIA STATEMENT:  Community Services Directorate, Environmental Services division reviews four by-laws

Issued George Municipality,  28 April, for immediate release.

 

The Community Services Directorate, Environmental Services Division has amended four by-laws recently and the revised documentation was approved in draft format in Council on 20 April 2023, and are now published for public participation purposes. These by-laws hold the same power and force as other national and provincial legislation but are laws managed by the individual municipality in order to regulate the affairs and the services it provides within its area of jurisdiction.

 

DRAFT AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT BY-LAW:

The George Municipality developed the Air Quality Control By-law for its municipal area which was adopted by Council and was subsequently promulgated in the Provincial Gazette and came into operation on 30 November 2010. The current by-law was outdated and not aligned to applicable legislation and will be replaced by the Air Quality Management By-Law.

The intent of this by-law is to elaborate and provide clarity on the following aspects pertaining to air quality management:

  1. Definitions, Purpose & Objectives & Application of the by-law
  2. Duty of care
  3. Designation of Air Quality Officers & Environmental Management Inspectors
  4. Powers and Functions of Air Quality Officers & Environmental Management Inspectors
  5. Local Emission Standards, Norms & Standards and Smoke Control Zones
  6. Smoke Emissions
  7. Public Participation process
  8. Compliance & Enforcement
  9. General Provisions

The following are the most important changes to the current by-law:

  1. Name of the by-law. From Air Pollution Control to Air Quality Management By-law.
  2. Amendments to existing definitions.
  3. New definitions – the Act, air quality management plan, air quality management officer, ambient air, Constitution, environmental management inspector, media blasting, National Framework, NEMA, obscuration, rubber product, soot blowing & spray area.
  4. Additions to the Purpose & objectives of the By-law -Chapter 1, Section1(b) (c) and Section 2.
  5. Amendments to the Application of the by-law, Chapter 1, Section3.
  6. Amendments to the Duty of Care, Chapter 2, Section 4.
  7. New addition to the by-law, Chapters 3, Sections 5, 6 & 7.
  8. New addition to the by-law, Chapter 4, Sections 8, 9, 10, & 11.
  9. Amendments & Additions to Smoke Emissions – Chapter 5, Section 12 (3) & (4), Section 13 (2) (a-d) & 6.
  10. Additions, Chapter 5 Section16, 3 (a-c).
  11. Additions, Chapter 6 Section 18 & 19.
  12. Additions, Chapter 7 Sections 20 & 21.
  13. Additions and Amendments to Chapter 9, Section 26, 3 (a-f), 4 (a-e), 5, Sections 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 & 33.

 

DRAFT CEMETERIES AND CREMATORIA BY-LAW

The intent of this by-law is to:

  • Make provision for the allocation of land for the purposes of the burial of human remains.
  • To develop and maintain existing cemeteries,
  • To permit its residents to dispose of a corpse by cremation and,
  • To provide space allowing the preservation of the remains of a cremation in a dignified manner.

 

The following are the most important changes to the current by-law:

  • Establishment and maintenance of cemeteries
  • Interment of destitute persons
  • Rules and regulations during burials and responsibilities of persons arranging burials.
  • Penalties and offences in contravention of the rules and regulations.
  • Repeal of by-laws

 

DRAFT PUBLIC AMENITIES BY-LAW

The intent of this by-law is to:

  • Control access to and use of all public amenities owned by or under the control of the municipality.

 

The following are the most important changes to the current by-law:

  • Camping on designated camping areas and unauthorized camping.
  • An authorised officer and powers of the authorised officer,
  • Impounded property as a result of unauthorized camping,
  • Repeal of by-laws.

 

DRAFT PREVENTION OF PUBLIC NUISANCE BY-LAW

The George Municipality developed the Prevention of Public Nuisances By-law for its municipal area which was promulgated in the Western Cape Provincial Gazette and came into operation on 30 November 2010.

The current by-law was outdated and not aligned to applicable legislation.

The intent of this revised by-law is to elaborate and provide clarity on the following aspects pertaining to public nuisances:

  • The behaviour and conduct of persons which constitutes a public nuisance;
  • the right of entry, inspection and confiscation;
  • the serving of documents and processes to be followed.

The following are the most important changes to the current by-law:

  1. Amendments to existing definitions and referrals to legislation,
  2. New definitions – authorised official.
  3. Addition to the by-law, Section 4 – right of entry, inspection and confiscation
  4. Addition to the by-law, Section 5 – Service of documents and process
  5. Addition to the by-law, Section6 – Appeal
  6. Addition to the by-law, Section 7 – Offences & Penalties
  7. Addition to the by-law, Section8 – Repeal of the by-laws

 

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS

Notices will be published in the George Herald, on the Municipal Website and municipal social media sites. Please follow this link to access the Community Services By-Law documentation https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/community-services/ Hard copies will be provided at all public libraries in George for review. Feedback is required within 30 days. Comments and inputs can be emailed to Mr Sivuyile Mtila smital@george.gov.za , phoned in to 044 802 2900 or submitted in person at the George Municipality Community Services Offices, 82 Meade Street.

 

REFUSE COLLECTION OVER THE NEXT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS – 27 APRIL AND 1 MAY

REFUSE COLLECTION OVER THE NEXT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS – 27 APRIL AND 1 MAY
Issued by George Municipality 24 April 2023
Refuse (black, green, and blue bags) will be collected as per the normal schedule on public holidays, Freedom Day, 27 April 2023 and Worker’s Day, Monday, 1 May 2023.
Businesses ARE REQUESTED TO PLEASE ONLY put REFUSE BAGS OUT on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays AND only at designated spots, not on the sidewalk.
REFUSE REMOVAL: GENERAL
All refuse bags; black, green, and blue, must be put out by 07:00 am on the removal day ONLY.
Only 4 green bags are allowed, and unlimited blue bags.
All black bags will be collected on the Public Holidays and can also be substituted or combined with bundles of branches/ garden waste.
Bundles must not be too big for one person to pick up OR more than 1m in length.
Broken glass should be wrapped in a newspaper when thrown into bags to prevent injuries to workers.
Gwaiing Landfill Site on R102
Bulky waste must be disposed of at the Gwaiing Landfill Site on R102. The Gwaiing landfill site is usually open Monday to Friday from 7:00 until 19:00, Saturdays and Public Holidays from 7:00 until 15:00. On Thursday, 27 April (Freedom Day) and on Monday, 1 May (Worker’s Day) the landfill site will be open from 7:00 until 15:00.
CONTACT
George Municipality Environmental Services
82 Meade Street, George. Phone 044 802 2900/11
Black bag-related enquiries: 044 802 2900/11
Blue and green bag enquiries: LGE Waste, 044 878 0688/ lgewaste@gmail.com
No photo description available.
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PUBLIC NOTICE: MUNICIPALITY CLOSED ON UPCOMING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

PUBLIC NOTICE: MUNICIPALITY CLOSED ON UPCOMING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
Issued by George Municipality 26 April 2023 for immediate release

Please note that the George Municipality offices will be closed on the upcoming public holidays Thursday, April 27th (Freedom Day) and Monday, May 1st (Worker’s Day). All emergency and standby services will operate as usual. The offices are open on Friday, April 28th as usual from 07h45 until 16h30 and will reopen after the long weekend on Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023. After-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300. Fire emergencies: 044 801 6311

The Wilderness Tourism office hours for this weekend are:

Thursday 27th April 2023
09:00 – 13h00

Friday 28th April 2023
07:45 – 16:30

Saturday 29th April 2023
13:00 – 17:00

Monday 1st of May
09:00 – 13:00

George Tourism Office will be open on Friday from 08h30 to 16h30 to the public.

REFUSE COLLECTION OVER THE NEXT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS – 27 APRIL AND 1 MAY

REFUSE COLLECTION OVER THE NEXT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS – 27 APRIL AND 1 MAY
Issued by George Municipality 24 April 2023

Refuse (black, green, and blue bags) will be collected as per the normal schedule on public holidays, Freedom Day, 27 April 2023 and Worker’s Day, Monday, 1 May 2023.

Businesses ARE REQUESTED TO PLEASE ONLY put REFUSE BAGS OUT on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays AND only at designated spots, not on the sidewalk.
REFUSE REMOVAL: GENERAL
All refuse bags; black, green, and blue, must be put out by 07:00 am on the removal day ONLY.
Only 4 green bags are allowed, and unlimited blue bags.
All black bags will be collected on the Public Holidays and can also be substituted or combined with bundles of branches/ garden waste.
Bundles must not be too big for one person to pick up OR more than 1m in length.
Broken glass should be wrapped in a newspaper when thrown into bags to prevent injuries to workers.

Gwaiing Landfill Site on R102
Bulky waste must be disposed of at the Gwaiing Landfill Site on R102. The Gwaiing landfill site is usually open Monday to Friday from 7:00 until 19:00, Saturdays and Public Holidays from 7:00 until 15:00. On Thursday, 27 April (Freedom Day) and on Monday, 1 May (Worker’s Day) the landfill site will be open from 7:00 until 15:00.
CONTACT
George Municipality Environmental Services
82 Meade Street, George. Phone 044 802 2900/11
Black bag-related enquiries: 044 802 2900/11
Blue and green bag enquiries: LGE Waste, 044 878 0688/ lgewaste@gmail.com

Eskom load shedding update – Sunday, 23 April 2023

*Eskom load shedding update – Sunday, 23 April 2023:*

*Due to a slight improvement in the available generation capacity, Stage 4 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 this afternoon until 05:00 on Monday followed by Stage 3 loadshedding from 05:00 to 16:00.  This pattern of Stage 3 and Stage 4 loadshedding will be repeated daily until further notice.*

_Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom_

_*George will be affected as follows:*_

Sunday 23/04/2023

20:00 – 22:30

Monday 24/04/2023

04:00 – 06:30

20:00 – 22:30

Tuesday 25/04/2023

02:00 – 04:30

10:00 – 12:30

18:00 – 20:30

Wednesday 26/04/2023

02:00 – 04:30

10:00 – 12:30

18:00 – 20:30

Thursday 27/04/2023

02:00 – 04:30

10:00 – 12:30

18:00 – 20:30

Friday 28/04/2023

02:00 – 04:30

18:00 – 20:30

 

_*Uniondale will be affected as follows:*_

Sunday 23/04/2023

15:00 – 17:30

23:00 – 01:30

Monday 24/04/2023

07:00 – 09:30

16:00 – 17:30

23:00 – 01:30

Tuesday 25/04/2023

05:00 – 07:30

13:00 – 15:30

21:00 – 23:30

Wednesday 26/04/2023

05:00 – 07:30

13:00 – 15:30

21:00 – 23:30

Thursday 27/04/2023

05:00 – 07:30

13:00 – 15:30

21:00 – 23:30

Friday 28/04/2023

05:00 – 07:30

21:00 – 23:30

 

SWITCHING ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING – Not all areas will be switched back on at the same time!

Residents of George must please note that with the extended load-shedding, our Electrotechnical Directorate is no longer able to switch the entire city back on at the same time. Our daily notifiable demand from ESKOM has historically been set at 85MVA and on average George would use between 60 and 80MVA, although the municipality must pay ESKOM for 85MVA.

If the power is returned simultaneously to all areas when load-shedding ends, this creates a massive spike or surge in power with all geysers, freezers/fridges/batteries etc drawing power at the same time. With the extended four-hour load-shedding, the spikes for George are consistently reaching 105 – 112 MVA.

Areas will be switched on in sections, on rotation after Load-shedding

Eskom has indicated that unless George can reduce the spikes, they will increase our notifiable demand to the highest actual usage level which will in turn increase the purchase cost to the municipality. Consumers are requested to use electricity very sparingly when power returns after load-shedding (especially a 4-hour slot).  The municipality will now in rotation, switch the power on in sections. This means if for example the load-shedding slot is scheduled from 20h00 – 22h30, there is a chance that your area may only come on at 22h45 or 23h00.

Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load-shedding

Consumers are therefore urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network and reduce our current high MVA spikes.

Reporting power outages

Please do not phone the Afterhours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after Loadshedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on and wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The directorate will be aware if there has been a possible substation trip which needs to be sorted out.

Updated load shedding schedule – Friday, 21 April 2023 at 16h30

*Friday, 21 April 2023 at 16h30: Stage 6 loadshedding will continue to be implemented until 05:00 on Saturday. Thereafter, Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00 and Stage 4 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 until 05:00 on Saturday. This cycle will be repeated on Sunday until 05:00 on Monday morning.*

_Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom_

_*George will be affected as follows:*_

 

Friday 21/04/2023

20:00 – 22:30

Saturday 22/04/2023

04:00 – 06:30

12:00 – 14:30

20:00 – 22:30

Sunday 23/04/2023

04:00 – 05:00

12:00 – 14:30

20:00 – 22:30

Monday 24/04/2023

04:00 – 06:30

 

_*Uniondale will be affected as follows:*_

Friday 21/04/2023

15:00 – 19:30 **

23:00 – 01:30

Saturday 22/04/2023

07:00 – 09:30

15:00 – 17:30

23:00 – 01:30

Sunday 23/04/2023

15:00 – 17:30

23:00 – 01:30

 

SWITCHING ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING – Not all areas will be switched back on at the same time!

Residents of George must please note that with the extended load-shedding, our Electrotechnical Directorate is no longer able to switch the entire city back on at the same time. Our daily notifiable demand from ESKOM has historically been set at 85MVA and on average George would use between 60 and 80MVA, although the municipality must pay ESKOM for 85MVA.

If the power is returned simultaneously to all areas when load-shedding ends, this creates a massive spike or surge in power with all geysers, freezers/fridges/batteries etc drawing power at the same time. With the extended four-hour load-shedding, the spikes for George are consistently reaching 105 – 112 MVA.

Areas will be switched on in sections, on rotation after Load-shedding

Eskom has indicated that unless George can reduce the spikes, they will increase our notifiable demand to the highest actual usage level which will in turn increase the purchase cost to the municipality. Consumers are requested to use electricity very sparingly when power returns after load-shedding (especially a 4-hour slot).  The municipality will now in rotation, switch the power on in sections. This means if for example the load-shedding slot is scheduled from 20h00 – 22h30, there is a chance that your area may only come on at 22h45 or 23h00.

Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load-shedding

Consumers are therefore urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network and reduce our current high MVA spikes.

Reporting power outages

Please do not phone the Afterhours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after Loadshedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on and wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The directorate will be aware if there has been a possible substation trip which needs to be sorted out.

 

Planned power outage: portion of Modderivier

Planned power outage: portion of Modderivier
 
KENNISGEWING VAN DIE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER.
 
DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VAN MODDERIVIER
STRAWBERRY & HAYGROVE PLASE
 
KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op WOENSDAG 26 APRIL 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H45 met die doel om veranderings aan elektriese hoofleidings te maak. Klante word gewaarsku om die installasie as lewendig te beskou vir die volle periode aangesien die toevoer enige tyd gedurende die periode aangeskakel mag word.
 
Sou omstandighede verhoed dat die werk gedoen kan word gedurende bogenoemde periode, sal die werk gedoen word op VRYDAG 28 APRIL 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H45.
 
NOTIFICATION OF THE INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY.
 
THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF VAN MODDERIVIER
STRAWBERRY & HAYGROVE FARMS
 
NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on WEDNESDAY 26 APRIL 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 16H45 for the purpose of doing alterations to the electrical mains. Consumers are warned to treat the installation as being live for the full duration as the supply may be resumed at any time within the notified period.
 
Should circumstances prevent the work being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on
FRIDAY 28 APRIL 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 16H45.

Planned power outage: portion of Camphersdrift area

Planned power outage: portion of Camphersdrift area
 
NOTIFICATION OF THE INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY.
 
THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF CAMPHERSDRIFT
SCOUT, DE LA FONTAINE, BISHOP DAMANT STREETS
 
NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on MONDAY 24 APRIL 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00 for the purpose of doing alterations to the electrical mains. Consumers are warned to treat the installation as being live for the full duration as the supply may be resumed at any time within the notified period.
 
 
Should circumstances prevent the work being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on
TUESDAY 25 APRIL 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00.
 
 
 
 
KENNISGEWING VAN DIE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER.
 
DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VAN CAMPHERSDRIFT
SCOUT, DE LA FONTAINE, BISHOP DAMANT
STRATE
 
KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op MAANDAG 24 APRIL 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00 met die doel om veranderings aan elektriese hoofleidings te maak. Klante word gewaarsku om die installasie as lewendig te beskou vir die volle periode aangesien die toevoer enige tyd gedurende die periode aangeskakel mag word.
 
Sou omstandighede verhoed dat die werk gedoen kan word gedurende bogenoemde periode, sal die werk gedoen word op DINSDAG 25 APRIL 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00.
 
 
 
 
 

ESKOM LOADSHEDDING UPDATE, 21 April 2023

ESKOM LOADSHEDDING UPDATE, 21 April 2023
Stage 6 loadshedding will be implemented at 05:00 until further notice. This is due to failures of generating units at Tutuka, Kriel, Duvha and Kendal power stations since yesterday.

Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom

George will be affected as follows:

Friday 21/04/2023
12:00 – 16:30 **
20:00 – 22:30

Saturday 22/04/2023
04:00 – 06:30
12:00 – 16:30 **
20:00 – 00:30 **

Sunday 23/04/2023
04:00 – 06:30
12:00 – 14:30
20:00 – 00:30 **

Uniondale will be affected as follows:

Friday 21/04/2023
15:00 – 19:30 **
23:00 – 01:30

Saturday 22/04/2023
07:00 – 09:30
15:00 – 19:30 **
23:00 – 01:30 **

Sunday 23/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30 **
07:00 – 09:30
15:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30

SWITCHING ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING – Not all areas will be switched back on at the same time!
Residents of George must please note that with the extended load-shedding, our Electrotechnical Directorate is no longer able to switch the entire city back on at the same time. Our daily notifiable demand from ESKOM has historically been set at 85MVA and on average George would use between 60 and 80MVA, although the municipality must pay ESKOM for 85MVA.

If the power is returned simultaneously to all areas when load-shedding ends, this creates a massive spike or surge in power with all geysers, freezers/fridges/batteries etc drawing power at the same time. With the extended four-hour load-shedding, the spikes for George are consistently reaching 105 – 112 MVA.

Areas will be switched on in sections, on rotation after Load-shedding
Eskom has indicated that unless George can reduce the spikes, they will increase our notifiable demand to the highest actual usage level which will in turn increase the purchase cost to the municipality. Consumers are requested to use electricity very sparingly when power returns after load-shedding (especially a 4-hour slot). The municipality will now in rotation, switch the power on in sections. This means if for example the load-shedding slot is scheduled from 20h00 – 22h30, there is a chance that your area may only come on at 22h45 or 23h00.

Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load-shedding
Consumers are therefore urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network and reduce our current high MVA spikes.

Reporting power outages
Please do not phone the Afterhours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after Loadshedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on and wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The directorate will be aware if there has been a possible substation trip which needs to be sorted out.

𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝟮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀

𝟮𝟬 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯
𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝟮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀

The Cape Town Weather Office has issued an Impact Based Warning for damaging winds for today until 23h00 tonight.

Areas in the Garden Route district affected by damaging winds include Bitou, George, Hessequa, Knysna, and Mossel Bay.

See here: https://www.gardenroute.gov.za/2023/04/20/20-april-2023-impact-based-severe-weather-warning-level-2-for-damaging-winds/

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA 2023 – A great Garden Route Collaboration

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA 2023 – A great Garden Route Collaboration
Issued by George Municipality, 18 April 2023 for immediate release

George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism successfully represented the destination at the World Travel Market Africa tourism trade show held in Cape Town last week.  The Garden Route stand was a great collaboration, with areas George, Knysna, Hessequa, Plettenberg Bay and Oudtshoorn represented.  Other exhibitors on the stand included Redberry Farm and Woodlands Villa from George, where Woodlands Villa was a first-time exhibitor at the show.  The stand was well positioned opposite SATSA, who represent over 1,100 inbound tourism products in Southern Africa.  Other Garden Route exhibitors spotted at the show included Knysna Elephant Park, Highgate Ostrich Show Farm, Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours, Lilypond Lodge, Ocean Sailing Charters.  This resulted in a strong Garden Route offering being represented to the tourism trade interested in Africa.

 

This year a Sustainability segment was included in the destination overview, which was identified as one of the most talked about themes on the buyer profiles.   Buyers who George Tourism met with, based on our destination overview, were mostly interested in adventure, cultural exchange, mountain biking and hiking, nature and scenery, power van, National Park, Redberry Farm, gastronomy, nature guides, Dine with a Local, sporting events in the destination, wine, wellness experiences,  and golf.  Across the board, interest by tour operators is mostly for 4 and 5 Star properties that include breakfast.

 

A number of buyers are new to selling South Africa and or the Garden Route and were on a ‘fact finding mission’ where George Tourism was able to provide destination awareness and positioning. Where buyers know the Garden Route area quite well they used the trade show to understand what George, Wilderness and Uniondale has to offer their clients.  Clients of the tour operators met with are from a wide variety of source markets covering Spain, India, Argentina, Australia, Netherlands, USA, South Korea, Russian, Belgium, Germany, France, UK, Nigeria, SA, Cameroon, Congo, Swiss, Austria, Malaysia, Norway, Scandinavian.

 

 

Managing  Director, Chris Ndlovu, from Boyang Gape Tours and Travel who represents Indian and US group tour markets with Sharon House, Senior Tourism Officer for George.

Urgent notice: George Municipality’s overload risk for switch back of electricity at 10h30 this morning is very high.

Urgent notice: George Municipality’s overload risk for switch back of electricity at 10h30 this morning is very high. Switch on will be done rotationally.
Issued by George Municipality 20 April 2023

SWITCHING ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING – Not all areas will be switched back on at the same time!
Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load-shedding.

Reporting power outages
Please do not phone the Afterhours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after Loadshedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on and wait at least 45 minutes before reporting no power AND WHATSAPP ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES ON 067 350 3295. The directorate will be aware if there has been a possible substation trip which needs to be sorted out.

ESKOM LOADSHEDDING UPDATE: 19 APRIL 2023

*Stage 5 loadshedding is implemented from 05:00 until 16:00 and Stage 6 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 until 05:00 daily.*

_*George will be affected as follows:*_

 

Wednesday 19/04/2023

14:00 – 16:30

22:00 – 00:30 **

Thursday 20/04/2023

00:00 – 02:30 **

06:00 – 10:30 **

14:00 – 16:30

22:00 – 00:30

Friday 21/04/2023

04:00 – 06:30

12:00 – 16:30 **

20:00 – 22:30

 

_*Uniondale will be affected as follows:*_

Wednesday 19/04/2023

17:00 – 19:30

Thursday 20/04/2023

01:00 – 05:30 **

09:00 – 13:30 **

17:00 – 19:30

Friday 21/04/2023

07:00 – 09:30

15:00 – 19:30 **

23:00 – 01:30

 

SWITCHING ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING – Not all areas will be switched back on at the same time!

Residents of George must please note that with the extended load-shedding, our Electrotechnical Directorate is no longer able to switch the entire city back on at the same time. Our daily notifiable demand from ESKOM has historically been set at 85MVA and on average George would use between 60 and 80MVA, although the municipality must pay ESKOM for 85MVA.

If the power is returned simultaneously to all areas when load-shedding ends, this creates a massive spike or surge in power with all geysers, freezers/fridges/batteries etc drawing power at the same time. With the extended four-hour load-shedding, the spikes for George are consistently reaching 105 – 112 MVA.

Areas will be switched on in sections, on rotation after Load-shedding

Eskom has indicated that unless George can reduce the spikes, they will increase our notifiable demand to the highest actual usage level which will in turn increase the purchase cost to the municipality. Consumers are requested to use electricity very sparingly when power returns after load-shedding (especially a 4-hour slot).  The municipality will now in rotation, switch the power on in sections. This means if for example the load-shedding slot is scheduled from 20h00 – 22h30, there is a chance that your area may only come on at 22h45 or 23h00.

Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load-shedding

Consumers are therefore urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network and reduce our current high MVA spikes.

Reporting power outages

Please do not phone the Afterhours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after Loadshedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on and wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The directorate will be aware if there has been a possible substation trip which needs to be sorted out.

Issued by George Municipal Communication Department

Office of the Municipal Manager

Mayor’s Newsletter for George Herald of 30 March 2023

The spectre of loadshedding has made preparation of the draft budget for the financial year commencing in July 2023 an extreme challenge given the poor state of the South African economy.

The total revenue from the core services of the Municipality was budgeted at R1947m for 2022/23. Collectively the surpluses of revenue less expenditure from Electricity, Water, Sewerage and Refuse is budgeted to supplement revenue generated from Property Rates (collectively, “Total Rates”) to cover the expenditure from the range of services that do not generate revenue directly (the former contributing roughly 40% and Rates 60%). Electricity normally contributes over 20% of this total amount. For 2022/23, the Total Rates was projected at approximately R611m with Electricity contributing its R129m surplus.

The Total Rates covers fixed administrative overheads, streets, stormwater, traffic, law enforcement, fire services, planning, economic development, tourism, street cleaning, parks and social support services to the community.

During the adjustment budget approved in February 2023, it was projected that there would be a shortfall of R160m for the full year due to the impact of loadshedding reducing electricity sales, costs of diesel to power generators, increased overtime and maintenance. The budget for 2023/24 will need to address the future scenario of electricity no longer providing its previously secure revenue stream. In 2022, we already commenced with the introduction of fixed charges to ensure adequate maintenance and operation of the R2,5bn electricity network infrastructure. Consumers therefore need to contribute to the cost of using the network, electricity costs to provide water and waste-water treatment, streetlights and traffic lights, etc. A variable cost for each kilowatt-hour being used by a consumer is also being levied.

With loadshedding expected to continue, it is imperative that municipal revenues are restructured to ensure their sustainability. In future, the distribution network will transport energy to users coming from the municipality’s own generation projects, independent producers, as well as excess electricity generated by domestic and business consumers who have installed their own renewable energy.

Future budgets will be structured to eliminate the current shortfall by curtailing expenditure growth where possible while also seeking a higher contribution from Property Rates to cover the expenditure funded by Total Rates. We are fortunate that property valuations in George have risen in accord with property values elsewhere in the Western Cape. Recent statistics show that real residential property prices in Cape Town are indexed at 130 in comparison to indices of between 90 and 100 for the seven other metropolitan areas in South Africa.

The new municipal valuation roll being implemented is a reflection of the higher property values but will allow for a commensurate reduction in the rate in the Rand on the Property Rates payable by property owners.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) will be closed until further notice

PUBLIC NOTICE: Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) will be closed until further notice

Issued by George Municipality 4 April 2023 for immediate release

Due to technical difficulties, the George Municipality Vehicle Testing Centre (VTS) is closed until further notice. A technician will be available tomorrow (5 April) to work on the problem. We will keep the public up to date of any developments.

The VTS will be closed to the public but the MVR Section next to the VTS in Hibernia Street (next to the train station) is open for business as usual.

For any queries contact the VTS on 044 801 9312.

We apologize for the inconvenience. Vehicle owners needing urgent vehicle testing can contact private companies for this service.

Public Notice: Municipality closed on upcoming Public Holidays

*PUBLIC NOTICE: MUNICIPALITY CLOSED ON UPCOMING PUBLIC HOLIDAYS*

Issued by George Municipality 4 April 2023 for immediate release

 

Please note that the George Municipality offices will be closed over the Easter weekend, Friday, 7 April until and including, Monday, 10 April. All emergency and standby services will operate as usual. The offices will reopen on Tuesday, 11 April 2023.  After-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300. Fire emergencies: 044 801 6311

*REFUSE COLLECTION OVER EASTER HOLIDAYS 7 – 10 APRIL*

*REFUSE COLLECTION OVER EASTER HOLIDAYS 7 – 10 APRIL*

Issued by George Municipality 3 April 2023

 

Refuse (black, green, and blue bags) will be collected as per the normal schedule on public holidays, Good Friday, 7 April 2023 and Easter Monday, 10 April 2023.

 

Businesses ARE REQUESTED TO PLEASE ONLY put REFUSE BAGS OUT on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays AND only at designated spots, not on the sidewalk.

*REFUSE REMOVAL: GENERAL*

All refuse bags; black, green, and blue, must be put out by 07:00 am on the removal day ONLY.

Only 4 green bags are allowed, and unlimited blue bags.

All black bags will be collected on the Public Holidays and can also be substituted or combined with bundles of branches/ garden waste.
Bundles must not be too big for one person to pick up OR more than 1m in length.

Broken glass should be wrapped in a newspaper when thrown into bags to prevent injuries to workers.

Gwaiing Landfill Site on R102
Bulky waste must be disposed of at the Gwaiing Landfill Site on R102. The Gwaiing landfill site is usually open Monday to Friday from 7:00 until 19:00, Saturdays and Public Holidays from 7:00 until 15:00. On Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Monday the landfill site will be open from 7:00 until 15:00.

*CONTACT*

George Municipality Environmental Services

82 Meade Street, George. Phone 044 802 2900

Black bag-related enquiries: 044 802 2900

Blue and green bag enquiries: LGE Waste, 044 878 0688/ lgewaste@gmail.com

 

Public Notice: Contacting the George Municipality – Telecommunications System Transfer

Public Notice: Contacting the George Municipality – Telecommunications System Transfer

George Municipality is currently migrating its existing telecommunications system onto a new system.  All incoming calls from the public made to George Municipal offices (main building and external offices)  will be transferred to our switchboard. From the switchboard,  the calls will be transferred to the relevant departments. This arrangement will be in place for today (3 April) and will unfortunately create delays. Please take note of our emergency details listed below for urgent matters. The telephone lines will be back to normal from tomorrow onwards.

If the public experience any municipal-related emergencies please contact our emergency number on 044 801 6300 or for specific fire-related emergencies on 044 801 6311. The George Municipality switchboard number 044 801 9111 is operational but there are currently delays due to the high volume of calls. If your matter can be addressed via email please send details to gmun@george.gov.za

We call on the public to please be patient during this transition and apologise for any inconvenience.

Issued by George Mun 3 April at 09h45.