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Author: Debra Sauer

Please don’t give money or handouts to individuals begging on the streets

We kindly request that you refrain from giving money or handouts to individuals, including both children and adults, who are begging on the streets.

The George Municipality urges the residents of George to be part of the solution for those living on the streets by directing their donations to reputable organizations like the George Night Shelter or Kidstop. This approach is far more effective than providing direct assistance to people begging at street intersections, which has become a growing concern.

Regrettably, providing money or handouts to individuals on the streets can perpetuate their homelessness and lead to negative long-term consequences.

If you wish to make a positive impact, you can get in touch with the following organizations:

  • Freddy Trout, PASA (People Against Substance Abuse) at 068 487 4848.
  • Jonathan Gelderbloem, YFC Kidstop at 044 874 2624/044 875 1794.
  • Department of Social Services at 044 814 1920.
  • Andre Olivier from Cremhog via email at andre.olivier1962@gmail.com

Please note that living on the streets is not a criminal offense, and individuals cannot be arrested or relocated without their consent. The responsibility to assist people living on the streets mainly falls under the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Department of Social Development.

George residents, business owners, and organizations interested in helping the homeless or sharing innovative ideas for their support are encouraged to participate in the monthly PLOTS meeting.

For more information, please contact Estelle Fredericks at 044 802 2000, extension 2015 during office hours.

 

Moet asseblief nie geld of uitdeelstukke aan individue gee wie op straat bedel nie

Ons versoek u vriendelik om nie geld of uitdeelstukke aan individue te gee, insluitend beide kinders en volwassenes, wat op straat bedel nie.

George-munisipaliteit doen ‘n beroep op die inwoners van George om deel te wees van die oplossing vir diegene wat op straat woon deur hul skenkings aan betroubare organisasies soos die George Night Shelter of Kidstop te rig. Hierdie benadering is baie meer doeltreffend as om direkte hulp te verleen aan mense wat by straatkruisings bedel, wat ‘n toenemende bekommernis is.

Ongelukkig kan die verskaffing van geld of uitdeelstukke aan individue op straat hul haweloosheid voortduur en tot negatiewe langtermyngevolge lei.

As jy ‘n positiewe impak wil maak, kan jy met die volgende organisasies in aanraking kom:

  • Freddy Trout, PASA (People Against Substance Abuse) by 068 487 4848.
  • Jonathan Gelderbloem, YFC Kidstop by 044 874 2624/044 875 1794.
  • Departement Maatskaplike Dienste by 044 814 1920.
  • Andre Olivier van Cremhog via e-pos by andre.olivier1962@gmail.com

Neem asseblief kennis dat om op straat te lewe  nie ‘n kriminele oortreding is nie, en individue kan nie in hegtenis geneem of hervestig word sonder hul toestemming nie. Die verantwoordelikheid om mense wat op straat woon by te staan, val hoofsaaklik onder die Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiediens (SAPD) en die Nasionale Departement van Maatskaplike Ontwikkeling.

George-inwoners, sake-eienaars en organisasies wat belangstel om haweloses te help of innoverende idees vir hul ondersteuning te deel, word aangemoedig om aan die maandelikse PLOTS-vergadering deel te neem.

Vir meer inligting, kontak asseblief Estelle Fredericks by 044 802 2000, uitbreiding 2015 gedurende kantoorure.

 

Marching Together for Breast Cancer Awareness: A Vibrant Display of Solidarity


https://youtu.be/DMt_Zcx3cqk Municipal official for Community Services, Social Develoment Jonathan Fortuin spoke with passion in support of all residents of George affected in some way by Breast Cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time when communities across the globe unite in the fight against this formidable adversary. In George Municipality, this spirit of solidarity took center stage as a colorful group of municipal officials, councillors and members of CANSA gathered in front of the George Town Hall for a March in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Friday 27 October 2023. The sight of men and women of all ages,  dressed  in shades of pink, was a testament to the power of unity when it comes to raising awareness about breast cancer.

The event served as a reminder of the significance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is more than just a calendar date. It is a call to action, a time to celebrate survivors, remember those who have fought valiantly but are no longer with us, and to reaffirm our commitment to making progress in the battle against breast cancer. The choice of pink as the dress code for the event was not just a matter of aesthetics but a symbol of hope, strength, and determination. It’s a reminder that breast cancer awareness is not just about wearing a particular color for a month; it’s about raising our collective voice, urging individuals to get screened regularly, and working towards a world where breast cancer no longer takes lives.

Cllr Jacqulique Von Brandis attended the event and did the Vote of Thanks on behalf of the Executive Mayor.  Cllrs Monique Simmers, Theresa Jeyi and Jayzee  Jantjies participated in the event.

PUBLIC NOTICE – Natis back online, but currently handling backlog

The public is advised that the Natis system is back online but our staff is currently handling a heavy bottleneck of clients, as a result of the issue. The system was offline due to a Telkom fault, according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation.

Our MVR (Registering) Offices at Hibernia Street and the Vehicle Testing Station are open for business.

We apologise to the public for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

Unplanned water outage due to a pipe burst in Charlotte Str, Denneoord

Unplanned water outage due to a pipe burst in Charlotte Str, Denneoord.

The damaged section of pipeline have been isolated and a water truck is stationed at the Church. Work on site is delayed, due to the standby team still attending to another pipe burst in Ossie Urban Str.

ETR is 5 hours.

We thank residents for their patience and apologize for any inconvenience as a result of this.

Issued by George Municipality 22 October 2023 at 18h15

Update on Ballot’s Bay power outage

Update on Ballot’s Bay power outage: Teams are on their way to Ballot’s Bay after a pole fell over yesterday. After closer inspection the work seem more difficult as initially suspected. Excavation will start soon where the damage occurred. The team will provide an estimated time of repair once excavation is done. Issued by George Municipality 22 October 2023 at 15h35

Eskom load shedding update: Sunday, 22 October 2023

Eskom load shedding update: Sunday, 22 October 2023: Due to the continued improved generation fleet performance and emergency reserves fully recovered, load sheding will remain suspended and only resume on Tuesday at 16:00. Stage 1 load shedding will be implemented on Tuesday from 16:00 until 05:00 on Wednesday. Thereafter, loadshedding will be suspended from 05:00 until 16:00, followed by Stage 1 loadshedding from 16:00 until 05:00 on Thursday. This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice. Breakdowns are currently at 13 559MW, while planned maintenance is at 4 765MW of generation capacity. Demand forecast for the evening peak is 25 054MW. Eskom will communicate should any significant changes occur.

Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom

George will be affected as follows:

Sunday 22/10/2023

None

Monday 23/10/2023

None

Tuesday 24/10/2023

None

Wednesday 25/10/2023

None

Thursday 26/10/2023

18:00 – 20:30

Friday 27/10/2023

None

 

Uniondale will be affected as follows:

Sunday 22/10/2023

None

Monday 23/10/2023

None

Tuesday 24/10/2023

None

Wednesday 25/10/2023

None

Thursday 26/10/2023

21:00 – 23:30

Friday 27/10/2023

None

 

Update after the storm on Saturday, 21 October 2023

The N2 at Kaaimans Pass was cleared for traffic yesterday after a mudslide occurred. The George Fire Brigade and other departments from the Municipality had to use JCBs and chainsaws to remove earth, rock and other debris from the road to make it accessible for traffic. Follow-up cleaning of the area is ongoing today.
A tree fell over the N2 earlier this morning at Far Hills, very close to Kaaimans Pass. The road has been opened for two-way traffic, but teams are still hard at work removing the rest of this tree from the road. Three lanes are open for traffic at this stage. A tractor will be used to move the big logs out of the road.

Wilderness and Victoria Bay
The Wilderness lagoon is open and not much debris has been found on Wilderness and Victoria beaches. Our municipal teams started with cleanups today and will carry on until the town is in tip-top shape.

Power failures
Power failures were experienced all across George and teams are still working on outages today due to the heavy weather.

Water damage
Some areas in Groeneweide Park, Rosemoor and other areas in George had draining issues in the Streets today and our Civils teams on duty cleared the drainage systems.

Weather today
George has not had nor are we expecting any rainfall today but we are experiencing a South Easterly wind of up to 40 km/h.

For emergencies please contact any of the following numbers:
TOLL FREE DISASTER NUMBER: 087 152 9999
All after-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300
Cellphone 1: 074 6218737
Cellphone2: 074 423 8635

We thank the residents for their cooperation and patience during the stormy weather.

Issued by George Municipality 22 October 2023 at 13h00

Unplanned water outage: Low water pressure and no water certain parts of Thembalethu

Unplanned water outage: George Municipality Civils Directorate is aware of low water pressure experienced in certain parts of Thembalethu and reports of no water
This is due to a defect in the Pressure pressure-reducing valve at the Thembalethu Reservoir which is being attended to by operational staff. We trust to restore water to these areas shortly.

We thank residents for their patience and apologize for any inconvenience as a result of this. Issued by George Mun 22 October 2023 at 13h00

Appeal to residents to be safe during the heavy rainfall

The George Municipal Area has received good rains since last night and experienced heavy downpours early this morning, causing our stormwater systems to be under severe pressure.
We are receiving numerous complaints due to flooding and our staff is in the field attending to them.
Our emergency personnel appeal to people living in low-lying areas to take special care during this time. They should monitor the rising water levels and evacuate to a safer place or higher area when the water level rises.
Also, do not cross low-lying bridges or flooded roads or bridges but rather use alternative routes.
For emergencies please contact any of the following numbers:
TOLL FREE DISASTER NUMBER: 087 152 9999
All after-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300
Cellphone 1: 074 6218737
Cellphone2: 074 423 8635
We thank the residents for their cooperation and patience during this situation.

Update Eskom loadshedding stages: Wednesday, 18 October 2023

Update Eskom loadshedding stages: Wednesday, 18 October 2023:

With the emergency reserves fully replenished, Stage 1 loadshedding will be implemented from 22:00 tonight until 05:00 on Thursday.

Thereafter, loadshedding will be suspended until 16:00, from which time Stage 2 loadshedding resumes until 05:00 on Friday.

This pattern of suspending loadshedding from 05:00 until 16:00 and implementing Stage 2 loadshedding from 16:00 until 05:00, will be repeated daily until further notice.
George and Uniondale times remain unchanged.
Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom.

EMERGENCY POWER OUTAGE: Portion of Thembalethu, Zones 2,3,4 and 5

EMERGENCY POWER OUTAGE: Portion of Thembalethu, Zones 2,3,4 and 5
 
NOTIFICATION OF THE EMEGENCY INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY.
 
THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
 
PORTION OF THEMBALETHU
ZONE 2,3,4 AND 5
 
NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 18H00 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 20 OCTOBER 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 18H00.
 
 
 
 
KENNISGEWING VAN DIE NOOD ONDERBREKING
VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER.
 
DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
 
GEDEELTE VAN THEMBALETHU
ZONE 2,3,4 EN 5
 
KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op DONDERDAG 19 OKTOBER 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 18H00 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 20 OKTOBER 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 18H00.
 
 

Update: Unplanned water outage:Pipeburst in Fountain Str, Denneoord

Update: Unplanned water outage:Pipeburst in Fountain Str, Denneoord – Estimated time of repair is 4-6 hours. Teams are on site and working on repairs. The section of damaged pipeline was isolated. Water truck is stationed in the Street.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank the public for their patience. Issued by George Mun 18 October 2023 at 12h20

 

Planned power outage: portion of Herold’s Bay – Break Water Bay

Planned power outage: portion of Herold’s Bay – Break Water Bay
 
NOTIFICATION OF THE INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY.
 
THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
 
PORTION OF HEROLD’S BAY
BREAK WATER BAY
 
NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on MONDAY 23 OCTOBER 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 18H00 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 24 OCTOBER 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 18H00.
 
 
KENNISGEWING VAN DIE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER.
 
DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
 
GEDEELTE VAN HEROLDSBAAI
BREAK WATER BAY
 
KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op MAANDAG 23 OKTOBER 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 18H00 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 24 OKTOBER 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 18H00.
KENNISGEWING VAN DIE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER.
 
DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
 
GEDEELTE VAN HEROLDSBAAI
BREAK WATER BAY
 
KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op MAANDAG 23 OKTOBER 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 18H00 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 24 OKTOBER 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 18H00.
 

Update: Unplanned water outage and low water pressure

Update:Unplanned water outage and low water pressure. Estimated time of repair is another hour from now.
George Municipality is aware of the current low pressure and no water in Campher’s Drift, Bo Dorp, CBD and Denneoord.
George Municipality apologises for the inconvenience and appeals that water be used sparingly. Issued by George Municipality 17 October 2023 at 14h05.

Unplanned water outage and low water pressure

Unplanned water outage and low water pressure:

George Municipality is aware of the current low pressure and no water in Campher’s Drift, Bo Dorp, CBD and Denneoord. Municipal teams are on site and attending to the problem. A water tanker is en route to Denneoord.
George Municipality apologises for the inconvenience and appeals that water be used sparingly. Issued by George Municipality 17 October 2023 at 12h20.

 

Garden Route Dam level – 17 October 2023

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – 17 October 2023

Issued 17 October 2023, George Municipality

 

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height                       100 %

Rainfall for the previous 7 days                                                         12.60 mm(Measured up to and including 17 October 2023)

Conville Library closed due to asset verification stocktake from 16 -18 October

Please take note, Conville Library will be closed from 16 to 18 October due to asset verification planning that needs to be done by the Provincial Library Service.

Unfortunately, no checking in or checking out of any library material may be done on these dates as it will compromise the outcome of the stocktake.

In terms of Section 14 of Regulations PK.689/1980 a full asset verification should be done in all libraries affiliated with the Provincial Library Service, Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.
Patrons can, however, make use of their closest branch library in George if the need arises.
The library will reopen for the public again on Thursday, 19 October 2023.

For any queries please contact Conville library on 044 801 9320.

Planning, redesign and upgrade of Transportation Infrastructure relating to St. Mark’s Square

George Municipality has embarked on a process to redesign and upgrade the area known as St. Mark’s Square to facilitate the creation of a secure and accessible urban square and public parking area.

According to Delia Power, Deputy Director: Planning, the redesign is aimed at attracting active use, addressing safety and sustainability issues, enabling the transportation related function of the square and integrating the needs of the surrounding landowners and users of the area, where possible.

Power said a service provider has been appointed to manage the re-design and upgrading planning process that promise to reshape how residents interact and navigate this vibrant region. In addition to the transportation- and parking function of the project area, consideration will be given to possible commercial activities, such as food trucks/ deli’s/food kiosks and related seating for patrons, other initiatives such as night markets, infrastructure to support environmental management services, landscaping and greening. Also, enhancing security by implementing measures such as the installation of CCTV cameras, access control measures and improved lighting. Long-term parking solutions, possible charging stations for electric vehicles, inclusion of alternative energy solutions to aid safe and active use of the site will also be considered.

George Municipality values the unique character and heritage of the area and envisages that the site will form part of a future Heritage Precinct. The consultant’s team includes landscape- and heritage specialists to propose ways to adapt and enhance the character of the site in relation to the general area with the view of integrating and complementing the surrounding investments.

The relevant municipal departments will be consulted to establish their requirements. Adjacent property owners and identified users have been duly advised about the process being undertaken and inputs have been invited to ensure the future design of the site addresses the local needs.  The final design and cost estimates for implementation of the proposals are anticipated to be finalised by January 2024, whereupon funding will be sourced toward the implementation.

Power said, the planning, redesign and upgrade of infrastructure in George represents a forward-looking commitment to improving the lives of its residents and visitors. Through community engagement and a holistic approach to infrastructure development, George Municipality aims to create a more prosperous, accessible and environmentally conscious future for all. This initiative underscores the Municipality’s dedication to support regeneration of our investment and trade centres, to instill investor confidence and enhancing the overall quality of life in the George region.

For more information in this regard please email Lynette Groenewald at lgroenewald@george.gov.za or Michelle Lee at Mlee@george.gov.za from the Directorate: Human Settlements, Planning and Development.

 

Photo above: St Marks Square screenshot: An aerial view of St. Marks Square in the George CBD.

Locality map: A zoning view of the St. Marks Square area.

 

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – 9 October 2023

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – 9 October 2023

Issued 9 October 2023, George Municipality

 

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height                        100 %

Rainfall for the previous 7 days                                                         68 mm(Measured since last week -2023)

 

The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.

URGENT PUBLIC NOTICE: George Fire Brigade Telephone Landlines are Down

URGENT PUBLIC NOTICE: George Fire Brigade Telephone Landlines are Down

Issued by George Municipality 5 October 2023 at 16h10

All telephone landlines for the George Fire Brigade are currently down due to mechanical issues .Please use the following Cellphone Numbers for Emergencies until further notice.

Fire Control 074 621 8737  Other Emergencies 074 423 8635