George Special Council Meeting – 20 April 2023
George Special Council Meeting
https://www.youtube.com/live/qioJ-kT9Rhc?feature=share
Author: Debra Sauer
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
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.
Eskom load shedding update – Sunday, 2 April 2023
Eskom Load shedding update Sunday, 02 April 2023: On Monday, Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00, while Stage 4 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 to 05:00 on Tuesday. This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice.
Issued by George Mun on behalf of Eskom
George will be affected as follows:
Sunday 02/04/2023
22:00 – 00:30
Monday 03/04/2023
06:00 – 08:30
22:00 – 00:30
Tuesday 04/04/2023
06:00 – 08:30
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Wednesday 05/04/2023
04:00 – 06:30
12:00 – 14:30
20:00 – 22:30
Thursday 06/04/2023
04:00 – 05:00
12:00 – 14:30
20:00 – 22:30
Friday 07/04/2023
04:00 – 06:30
20:00 – 22:30
Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Sunday 02/04/2023
17:00 – 19:30
Monday 03/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
Tuesday 04/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
Wednesday 05/04/2023
07:00 – 09:30
15:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30
Thursday 06/04/2023
15:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30
Friday 07/04/2023
07:00 – 09:30
23:00 – 01:30
Eskom load shedding update schedule – 1 April 2023
*Updated Eskom Load shedding schedule. Due to higher than anticipated demand and failure of some generating units, Stage 4 Loadshedding will be implemented until further notice.*
_*Issued by George Mun on behalf of Eskom 1 April 2023*_
*George will be affected as follows:*
Saturday 01/04/2023
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
06:00 – 08:30
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Monday 03/04/2023
06:00 – 08:30
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
*Uniondale will be affected as follows:Uniondale will be affected as follows:*
Saturday 01/04/2023
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
Monday 03/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
*Eskom load shedding update, 31 March 2023
*Eskom load shedding update, 31 March 2023: Stage 4 load shedding will be implemented from 16:00 today until 05:00 on Saturday. Thereafter, Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00 on Saturday followed by Stage 4 loadshedding until 05:00 on Sunday. At 05:00 on Sunday, Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented until 16:00. Then Stage 3 loadshedding will implemented from 16:00 on Sunday until 16:00 on Monday.*
_Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom – 31 March 2023_
Receive Eskom loadshedding notifications by downloading the free EskomSePush app from Google Play Store at https://sepush.co.za/
*George will be affected as follows:*
Friday 31/03/2023
16:00 – 18:30
Saturday 01/04/2023
06:00 – 08:30
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
22:00 – 00:30
Monday 03/04/2023
06:00 – 08:30
22:00 – 00:30
*Uniondale will be affected as follows:*
Friday 31/03/2023
19:00 – 21:30
Saturday 01/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
17:00 – 19:30
Monday 03/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
09:00 – 11:30
17:00 – 19:30
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 after hours 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 that needs to be sorted out.
Planned power outage: portion of Thembalethu
Planned power outage: portion of Thembalethu
NOTIFICATION OF THE INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY.
THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF THEMBALETHU
AFRICA SKILLS AND SEWER PUMP STATION
NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on FRIDAY 31 MARCH 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 16H30 to do 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
MONDAY 03 APRIL 2023 FROM 09H00 TO 16H30.
******************************************************************************
KENNISGEWING VAN DIE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER.
DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VANTHEMBALETHU AFRICA SKILLS EN RIOOL POMSTASIE
KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op VRYDAG 31 MAART 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H30 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 MAANDAG 03 APRIL 2023 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H30.
Promoting George at World Travel Market Africa 2023
PROMOTING GEORGE AT WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA 2023
Issued by George Municipality 30 March 2023 for immediate release
George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism are representing the destination at the World Travel Market Africa tourism trade show in Cape Town next week from 3-5 April, under the new Garden Route stand.
According to Sharon House from George Municipality’s tourism office who focuses on destination promotion, the purpose of going to the show is to meet with the Tourism Trade, and particularly Tourism Buyers, who are interested in exploring and experiencing South Africa – to showcase everything our spectacular region has to offer local and international tourists. In previous years Garden Route towns exhibited on the provincial stand but this year the towns collaborated with the district to form one stand dedicated to the Garden Route and Klein Karoo area to promote the region more effectively. The collaboration includes major hubs George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Hessequa and Oudtshoorn. The stand was greatly subsidised by the district and this made booking a desk space considerably more affordable for local businesses to showcase their product. From the George area, popular strawberry agritourism attraction Redberry Farm, as well as Woodlands Villa, a new luxury accommodation in the Geelhoutboom area, applied and were approved on the stand.
The annual World Travel Market Africa exhibition is a tourism event that puts the spotlight on Africa, promoting the continent to the world, and is part of a global powerhouse of shows which take place in London, Dubai and other strategic locations. The Cape Town show, started in 2013, represents over 100 countries, with Hosted Buyers flying in from all corners of the globe to learn more about what our continent has to offer. Companies and product owners attending the exhibition are serious about meeting the right people, conducting productive meetings and getting a return on their investment. In addition, WTM provides a holistic travel and tourism show that benefits travel professionals from a wide spectrum.
On the Garden Route stand, George’s tourism representative has a dedicated, destination branded desk to meet with Buyers in back-to-back meetings which take place every 25 minutes. During this time, the destination is showcased through an inspiring presentation and video to sell our region and tourism experiences. The aim is to educate and entice the Buyer – to show them what the greater George area offers and inspire them to include greater George in future itineraries. During this time the Buyer can ask questions about the destination, request information on specific tourism experiences they are interested in and be matched to businesses in the destination. They are also provided with a flash stick which gives them the destination’s digital brochure, media resources and tourism lists. Meetings have been confirmed with a range of Buyers from Germany, South Africa, Poland, India, Denmark, UK, Nigeria, Malaysia, Netherlands, Canada, Romania, Belgium, Norway and France.
House said they are enthusiastic about the new stand, which will shine a brighter light on the region, to attract Buyers out of Cape Town. “We will fly the flag high for George, Wilderness and Uniondale, and wish all participants well in their endeavors next week..” Any tourism experiences and products interested in sponsoring a prize which will be randomly awarded to Buyers on the stand, can contact Sharon House on shouse@george.gov.za by Friday, 31 March 2023.
Captions:
Paragliding at Wilderness Beach.
Hiking in the Outeniqua mountains.
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 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 30 March at 09h40.
Eskom load shedding update – Wednesday, 29 March at 19h00
Eskom Stage 3 load shedding was implemented at 18:11 due to a higher than anticipated demand experienced tonight. This will continue until 16:00 when previously communicated load shedding schedules will resume.
Receive Eskom loadshedding notifications by downloading the free EskomSePush app from Google Play Store at https://sepush.co.za/
_Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom Wednesday, 29 March 2023 at 19h00_
*George will be affected as follows:*
Wednesday 29/03/2023
None
Thursday 30/03/2023
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30
16:00 – 18:30
Friday 31/03/2023
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30
16:00 – 18:30
Saturday 01/04/2023
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
22:00 – 00:30
*Uniondale will be affected as follows:*
Wednesday 29/03/2023
None
Thursday 30/03/2023
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30
19:00 – 21:30
Friday 31/03/2023
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30
19:00 – 21:30
Saturday 01/04/2023
17:00 – 19:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
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 after hours 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 that needs to be sorted out.
*#Eskom load shedding update – Wednesday, 29 March 2023
*#Eskom load shedding update – Wednesday, 29 March 2023: Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented as previously communicated from 16:00 today until 05:00 on Thursday. Thereafter, Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00 on Thursday followed by Stage 4 loadshedding until 05:00 on Friday. Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 on Friday until 05:00 on Saturday. Then Stage 2 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 on Saturday until 05:00 on Sunday.*
Receive Eskom loadshedding notifications by downloading the free EskomSePush app from Google Play Store at https://sepush.co.za/
_Issued by George Municipality on behalf of Eskom_
*George will be affected as follows:*
Wednesday 29/03/2023
None
Thursday 30/03/2023
08:00 – 10:30
16:00 – 18:30
Friday 31/03/2023
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30
16:00 – 18:30
Saturday 01/04/2023
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
22:00 – 00:30
*Uniondale will be affected as follows:*
Wednesday 29/03/2023
None
Thursday 30/03/2023
11:00 – 13:30
19:00 – 21:30
Friday 31/03/2023
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30
19:00 – 21:30
Saturday 01/04/2023
17:00 – 19:30
Sunday 02/04/2023
01:00 – 03:30
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 after hours 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 that needs to be sorted out.
Update: Water restored to Heather Park area
Update: Water restored to Heather Park area. Issued by George Mun 29 March 2023 at 14h50
Updated Public Notice: Municipality migrating telephone system – access to landlines might be compromised until 14h00 today (29 March 2023)
Update Public Notice: George Municipality is currently migrating its existing telecommunications system onto a new system. Technicians are busy merging the different telephone lines into the new system and the public may have difficulty reaching certain telephone numbers at the organisation for today (29 March 2023).
According to the technicians, all lines should be up and running by 14h00 today. 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 very busy putting calls through to Directorates. We call on the public to please be patient during this transition and apologise for any inconvenience. Issued by George Mun 29 March at 12h30.
Unplanned power outage: Portion of Uniondale
Unplanned power outage: Our Electrotechnical Directorate had to cut electrical supply to a portion of Uniondale because of an emergency electrical repair due to a faulty low-voltage cable. Areas affected include Skou, Van Riebeeck, Schoeman and a portion of Voortrekker Streets. The estimated time of repair is 16h00. Issued by George Municipality 29 March 2023 at 10h45
GEORGE TRAFFIC SERVICES – EASTER HOLIDAY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
Re-issued 29 March 2023 for immediate release
The Western Cape Province’s first school term comes to an end on March 31st, 2023 with a week of school holidays and an Easter long weekend and George Traffic department will be on high alert.
Many citizens take this opportunity to embark on long-distance travelling to neighbouring districts or provinces to spend time with family or friends.
Janine Wells, George Traffic Chief said, George would see an increase in traffic volumes on all major routes as travellers will visit our beautiful area. The N2 will also carry heavy volumes of traffic over this period.
“Traffic law enforcement will be on high alert and will ensure high visibility and deal appropriately with offenders. Increased activities are aimed at reducing fatalities during this Easter holiday period.
The local traffic department in conjunction with other enforcement entities, will set up vehicle checkpoints and focus on vehicles that are overloaded, driver and vehicle fitness, driving under the influence of alcohol and the wearing of safety belts by all occupants.
According to Wells, one element of this year’s campaign is the impact alcohol has on road users and its contribution to road carnages. The random screening of drivers will be conducted daily. Further focussing will be on long-distance public transport such as taxis, midi-buses, and bigger buses to ensure compliance with the various acts and the safety of commuters and other road users.
Many accidents also occur due to jaywalking and pedestrians crossing roads at unsafe locations. George Traffic Department will also focus on pedestrian safety by conducting awareness campaigns on the N2 highway and provincial roads within the George area.
Enforcement agencies will be strategically placed to monitor people who make themselves guilty of moving offences and speed enforcement will be conducted.
Members of the public are urged to join the campaign to reduce road carnage by reporting reckless and negligent drivers at the George Municipality emergency number 044 801 6300.
Wells wished all residents and visitors to our beautiful City a safe journey over the holidays and the Easter period.
GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – Water Restrictions remain in place
GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – Water Restrictions remain in place
Issued 27 March 2023, George Municipality
Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 89,44
Rainfall for previous 7 days: 12 mm (Measured up to and including 27 March 2023)
The co-operation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.
Follow this link for the detailed Stricter Water Restrictions in English/Afrikaans and Isixhosa.
https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/public-notices/general/
Contraventions of the Water Restrictions can be reported on 0800 424477.
Report water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.
Group of friends test GO GEORGE accessibility for people who are blind
Issued 27 March 2023
A very friendly group of “assessors” took to the street and also went for a bus ride in George on Wednesday last week. The purpose of their visit was to test and give feedback regarding the universal accessibility of the newly upgraded Market Street, as well as the features and services to accommodate people who are blind on the GO GEORGE buses and at the bus stops.
The four blind friends came to George from Hartenbos where Diane du Plessis (owner of guide dog Akari) and Amanda Bester (owner of guide dog Odie) reside, and Corrie Brits (owner of guide dog Melvin) and Reginald Smal had been visiting them from Bellville and Roodepoort respectively. They certainly looked to be on a mission with three guide dogs leading the pack, and Reginald using a white cane to walk about.
Universal Access a top priority
Universal accessibility (UA) is one of the top priorities of the GO GEORGE bus service which has been commended before about being progressive and innovative regarding accommodation of passengers with disabilities or special needs.
“Of course, we have made mistakes in the past, but we keep learning and we continuously keep trying to improve our services to all passengers,” said James Robb, Acting Public Transport Oversight Official of the George Municipality.
To this end, the services of one of the few qualified UA consultants in South Africa, Colette Fransolet, was acquired to continuously educate, support and assess the different workstreams of the bus service to enhance the experience of persons with disabilities or special needs. Colette invited the group to George and accompanied them along with members of the GO GEORGE communication team.
Visitors deeply impressed
The visitors were unanimously impressed with the wide sidewalks in Market Street and the tactile paving which they could feel with their feet and that can be followed easily towards the bus stop or for warnings at pedestrian crossings. Market Street is in the final phases of being upgraded, incorporating several universal design principles.
Corrie appreciated using the ramp to board the bus and remarked on the enjoyable walk through the Garden Route Mall with their dogs. To their delight, a Braille menu was presented at the Wimpy restaurant.
Amanda mentioned that the beeps at the traffic lights could perhaps be made a bit louder since it is difficult to hear them above the engine noise of passings buses or trucks. “Everything about the visit was positive,” she said, “but the GO GEORGE bus was the ultimate experience of the day! The buses are equipped so well to accommodate people with different kinds of disabilities – it would be wonderful if every city can have this kind of bus service. It allows the blind person so much independence, having access to this kind of transport, being able to go to the Mall on your own.”
Reginald reiterated the ease with which a person who is blind can navigate the spacious sidewalks with tactile paving, including the directional paving at the bus stop itself. “I can just commend the effort that’s being made here in George,” he said.
It was Diane’s first bus ride and most enjoyable, with her guide dog, Akari, also handling it very well.
Status of guide dogs
Co-passengers on this specific bus were still a bit apprehensive of the three dogs in the bus.
“I know the GO GEORGE communication team has been doing a lot to create awareness about guide dogs, but this is something we need to keep addressing,” said Colette. “The public should be made aware of the need for and status of working dogs, and that they are harmless. They can be discerned from other dogs by the harnesses they wear and a sign that reads, Working guide dog. Please do not distract. Guide dogs are an integral part of being blind if you own a dog. The dogs are an extension of the person and give them a great sense of independence.”
Persons with disabilities are encouraged to use the GO GEORGE bus service and will be assisted by passenger support staff, if needed, until they feel confident to travel on their own. Please call the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 for more information or to request support.
CAPTIONS:
Reginald Smal found the extended ramp easy to use when boarding the bus.
Diane du Plessis with her guide dog, Akari, testing the ramp to board the bus. It was their first bus ride ever.
Corrie Bester’s guide dog, Melvin, has been living and working with his owner for six years. He was very calm on the bus, which is typical of Labradors.
Odi (left, with her owner Amanda Bester) and Akari (Diane du Plessis’s guide dog) are sister and brother from the same litter and love playing together when their owners visit. Their third birthday was properly celebrated last week when the two sibling also made the headlines.
The visitors were intrigued, learning about the detail and planning that goes into universal design of the features and facilities of the GO GEORGE bus service – all to ensure that all passengers can use the service with ease.
The group of visitors with their guide dogs waited patiently at the bus stop for their bus to the Garden Route Mall. Every moment was used to share interesting information about universal design principles aimed at accommodating passengers with disabilities and special needs.
Groep vriende toets GO GEORGE-toeganklikheid vir mense wat blind is
Uitgereik 27 Maart 2023
‘n Baie vriendelike groep “assessors” het verlede week die straat ingevaar in George, en ook ‘n busrit onderneem. Die doel van hul besoek was om fasiliteite te toets en terugvoer te gee oor die universele toeganklikheid van die nuut opgegradeerde Markstraat, asook die funksies en dienste om mense wat blind is op die GO GEORGE-busse en by die bushaltes te akkommodeer.
Die vier blinde vriende het van Hartenbos na George gekom waar Diane du Plessis (eienaar van gidshond Akari) en Amanda Bester (eienaar van gidshond Odie) woon, en Corrie Brits (eienaar van gidshond Melvin) en Reginald Smal onderskeidelik van Bellville en Roodepoort by hulle kom kuier het. Die groep het beslis gelyk of hulle op ‘n missie is met drie gidshonde wat die span lei, en Reginald wat ‘n wit kierie gebruik om rond te beweeg.
Universele toegang ‘n topprioriteit
Universele toeganklikheid (UT) is een van die topprioriteite van die GO GEORGE-busdiens wat al voorheen lof ontvang het vir hul progressiewe en innoverende benadering ten opsigte van die akkommodering van passasiers met gestremdhede of spesiale behoeftes.
“Natuurlik het ons in die verlede foute gemaak, maar ons hou aan leer en ons probeer voortdurend om ons dienste aan alle passasiers te verbeter,” het James Robb, waarnemende oorsigbeampte van openbare vervoer van die George-munisipaliteit, gesê.
Vir hierdie doel is die dienste van een van die min gekwalifiseerde UT-konsultante in Suid-Afrika, Colette Fransolet, verkry om die verskillende afdelings van die busdiens deurlopend op te voed, te ondersteun en te assesseer om die ervaring van persone met gestremdhede of spesiale behoeftes te verbeter. Colette het die groep na George genooi en hulle saam met lede van die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan vergesel.
Besoekers diep beïndruk
Die besoekers was eenparig beïndruk met die breë sypaadjies in Markstraat en die tasbare plaveisel wat hulle met hul voete kon voel en wat maklik gevolg kan word na die bushalte of vir waarskuwings by voetoorgange. Markstraat is in die finale fases van opgradering, wat verskeie universele ontwerpbeginsels insluit.
Corrie het dit geniet om die loopvlak te gebruik om op die bus te klim en het opgemerk dat die stappie met hul gidshonde deur die Garden Route Mall baie goed afgeloop het. Tot hul vreugde is ‘n Braille-spyskaart by die Wimpy-restaurant aangebied.
Amanda het genoem dat die piepgeluid by die verkeersligte dalk ‘n bietjie harder gemaak kan word, aangesien dit moeilik is om dit bo die enjingeraas van verbygaande busse of vragmotors te hoor. “Alles omtrent die besoek was positief,” het sy gesê, “maar die GO GEORGE-bus was die uiteindelike ervaring van die dag! Die busse is so goed toegerus om mense met verskillende soorte gestremdhede te akkommodeer – dit sal wonderlik wees as elke stad hierdie soort busdiens kan hê. Dit laat die blinde persoon soveel onafhanklikheid toe, met toegang tot hierdie soort vervoer, om self winkelsentrum toe te kan gaan.”
Reginald het ook melding gemaak van die gemak waarmee ‘n persoon wat blind is die ruim sypaadjies met tasbare plaveisel kan navigeer, asook die rigtingaanwysende plaveisel by die bushalte self. “Ek het net lof vir die moeite wat hier in George gedoen word,” het hy gesê.
Dit was Diane se eerste busrit en sy het dit baie geniet saam met haar gidshond, Akari, wat dit ook baie goed hanteer het.
Status van gidshonde
Medepassasiers op hierdie spesifieke bus was nog ‘n bietjie versigtig vir die drie honde in die bus.
“Ek weet die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan het baie gedoen om bewustheid oor gidshonde te skep, maar dit is iets wat ons moet aanhou aanspreek,” het Colette gesê. “Die publiek moet bewus gemaak word van die behoefte aan en status van werkende honde en dat hulle skadeloos is. Hulle kan van ander honde onderskei word deur die harnasse wat hulle dra en ‘n teken wat lees: Working guide dog. Please do not distract. Gidshonde is ‘n integrale deel van blindwees as jy ‘n hond besit. Die honde is ‘n verlengstuk van die persoon en gee hulle ‘n groot gevoel van onafhanklikheid.”
Persone met gestremdhede word aangemoedig om van die GO GEORGE-busdiens gebruik te maak en sal, indien nodig, deur passasiersondersteuningspersoneel bygestaan word totdat hulle selfversekerd genoeg voel om alleen te reis. Skakel gerus die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 vir meer inligting of om ondersteuning te versoek.
Fotobyskrifte in Afrikaans:
Reginald Smal het die loopvlak baie gerieflik gevind toe hy op die bus klim.
Diane du Plessis met haar gidshond, Akari, toets die loopvlak om die bus te betree. Dit was hulle eerste busrit ooit.
Corrie Bester se gidshond, Melvin, woon en werk al ses jaar saam met sy eienaar. Hy was baie kalm op die bus, wat tipiese gedrag vir Labradors is.
Odi (links, met haar eienaar, Amanda Bester) en Akari (Diane du Plessis se gidshond) is suster en broer uit dieselfde werpsel en speel baie lekker saam wanneer hul eienaars kuier. Die twee se derde verjaarsdag verlede week is deeglik gevier en het selfs koerantopskrifte gehaal.
Die besoekers was gefassineerd om te hoor van die fyn besonderhede en beplanning wat betrokke is by die universele ontwerp van die fasiliteite en kenmerke van die GO GEORGE-busdiens – alles om te verseker dat alle passasiers die busdiens met gemak kan gebruik.
Die groep besoekers met hul gidshonde wag geduldig by die bushalte vir hul rit na die Garden Route Mall. Elke oomblik is gebruik om interessante inligting te deel oor universele-ontwerpbeginsels wat daarop gemik is om passasiers met gestremdhede en spesiale behoeftes te akkommodeer.