Author: Debra Sauer

At the handover of homes at Metro Grounds.

George Municipality, in partnership with the Western Cape Government and the National Department of Human Settlements, celebrated a historic milestone last week with the handover of 112 houses across different projects in George, including the first-ever dedicated housing for military veterans.

The three-day housing blitz ran from Wednesday, 3 September to Friday, 5 September 2025, transforming lives by providing families with the dignity of their own homes. At the Metro Grounds Housing Project, 15 houses with title deeds were handed over on Wednesday. The following day, a further 31 families received their houses, though their title deeds will follow later. On Friday, 37 more houses were handed over at Metro Grounds, of which 33 included title deeds. That same day in Pacaltsdorp, at Erf 325 East Syferfontein, 30 military veterans received the keys to their new homes, with six of them receiving title deeds immediately.

In total, 112 houses were handed over during the week, along with 54 title deeds. For the families, many of whom have waited decades, the moment represented far more than receiving four walls and a roof – it was the fulfilment of long-held dreams, the restoration of dignity, and the foundation of a safer and brighter future.

The Metro Grounds Housing Project is planned for 632 Breaking New Ground (BNG) units, of which 213 have now been handed over to date. A further 419 top structures are still outstanding. At the Military Veterans Project in Syferfontein, Pacaltsdorp, a total of 38 units are planned, with 30 now handed over. This marked the very first handover of houses specifically dedicated to veterans in George, leaving only eight units still outstanding.

Beneficiaries at Metro Grounds include residents from informal settlements, backyard dwellers, and individuals on the Western Cape Housing Demand Database. For the military veterans, the recipients were selected from the official Military Veterans Database and the same database.

Speaking at the ceremony on Friday, Deputy Minister of Human Settlements, Hon. Tandi Mahambehlala, said: “Today, we have a good story to tell. These homes are not just houses – they are a symbol of restored dignity, hope, and a foundation for a better life.”

Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure, Minister Tertuis Simmers, also encouraged the veterans, reminding them that they now have legal ownership and that their homes are secured with title deeds.

George Municipality further reminded beneficiaries that they are not only receiving houses but also becoming part of building stronger and more stable communities. Families were guided on the responsibilities of homeownership, protecting their properties, and contributing to the wellbeing of their neighbourhoods.

To those residents who are still waiting, the Municipality extends appreciation for their patience. Just as the 112 families celebrated this past week, more handovers will follow, and every qualifying resident will one day share in the dignity and joy of homeownership.

At one of the handovers at Metro grounds are from left: Cllr Rita Gregory from George Council, MEC for Infrastructure in the Western Cape, Minister Tertuis Simmers, Deputy Minister of Human Settlements in National Goverment, Minister Tandi Mahambehlala, Executive Mayor of George, Ald Jackie von Brandis, Cllr Jean Safers, MMC for Human Settlements, Mahlatse Phosa, Director: Planning and Development and Cllr Siphelo Manxele.

 Abraham Marin, a military veteran, receives his title deed from the dignatories at the handover at the Syferfontein Project, Pacaltsdorp. He is congratulated by MEC for Infrastructure in the Western Cape, Minister Tertuis Simmers, Deputy Minister of Human Settlements in National Goverment, Minister Tandi Mahambehlala, Executive Mayor of George, Ald Jackie von Brandis and Cllr Jean Safers, MMC for Human Settlements.

George Councillors and Mayor Jackie von Brandis congratulating beneficiaries receiving their new home at Metro Grounds.

Mayor Jackie von Brandis hands over the title deed to Cedricka Gorden at Metro Grounds. With them are from left, Chief Whip of George Council, Cllr Theresa Jeyi, Cllr Jean Safers, MMC for Human Settlements and Cllr Thandiswa Qatana.

MEC for Infrastructure in the Western Cape, Minister Tertuis Simmers and Deputy Minister of Human Settlements in National Goverment, Minister Tandi Mahambehlala planted a tree to beautify the area at Syferfontein Housing Project in Pacaltsdorp, when handing over houses to beneficiaries.  Executive Mayor of George, Ald Jackie von Brandis and Cllr Jean Safers, MMC for Human Settlements look on.

 Mayor Jackie von Brandis delivers a speech while handing over homes at Metro Grounds last week.

In the photograph above are some of the officials who work in Facility Management section.

Several of George Municipality’s community halls have recently benefitted from much-needed upgrades, ensuring safer, more welcoming spaces for residents. Improvements include refurbished kitchens, upgraded toilets, new lighting, fencing, accessibility features, and other general safety measures. The Facility Management Section, under Corporate Services, is responsible for the operation and maintenance of 15 community halls across the city and rural areas. Led by a Manager and supported by supervisors and hall staff, the team also oversees bookings and day-to-day operations.

While budget constraints mean that not all upgrades can be completed at once, the Municipality remains committed to continuous improvement. Sustainability initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures have also been introduced in select halls. Community halls play an important role in bringing people together whether for weddings, memorials, training, workshops or civic engagements. They are more than just buildings; they are places of connection and service.

Residents are encouraged to make use of these venues and to share feedback for future improvements. Bookings are managed in line with Council-approved policy. For bookings and enquiries, please contact Rozendra Thysse on 044 801 9115 or email rsthysse@george.gov.za

In the photo are officials from George Municipality, SAPS members, members from Gift of the Givers, people living on the streets and members from Stop Trafficking at the self-defense event held at the George Banquet Hall.

During Women’s Month, George Municipality’s People Living on the Streets (PLOTS) programme hosted a special initiative to support women experiencing homelessness by teaching them self-defence training.
The programme partnered with Stop Trafficking and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to provide training and tips aimed at equipping women with practical safety skills and connecting them to vital support services.

Women living on the streets face daily challenges that go beyond survival. They are at constant risk of violence, often unnoticed by society. The event not only gave participants the opportunity to learn useful ways to protect themselves but also reinforced their right to safety and dignity.

A senior SAPS officer led the training, showing women practical techniques they can use in dangerous situations. Gift of the Givers and SAPS members handed out dignity packs, while the organisers shared information about available services, family reunification opportunities, and options for safe and stable housing.

Participants were encouraged to support one another and to make use of the resources that are available to them. While the self-defence training provides immediate tools for personal safety, the larger goal of the PLOTS programme is to create a George where nobody has to live on the streets and where every resident has access to housing and support.

George Municipality remains committed to protecting its most vulnerable residents. Through the PLOTS programme and strong partnerships with local organisations, the Municipality continues to work towards helping people move from street living into safe and sustainable environments.

Photos:

Officials from George Municipality, SAPS members, members from Gift of the Givers, people living on the streets and members from Stop Trafficking at the self-defense event held at the George Banquet Hall.

Officials from George Municipality, SAPS members, members from Gift of the Givers, people living on the streets and members from Stop Trafficking at the self-defense event held at the George Banquet Hall.

In the photo above the Mayor of George, Alderlady Jackie von Brandis, councillors, officials and members of the George Junior City Council (JCC) at the badge conferring event at the George Banquet Hall.

The George Junior City Council (JCC) serves as a representative forum for high school learners, promoting active citizenship and providing a platform to represent the interests of student leaders. The Council also aims to broaden learners’ understanding of local government. It comprises learners from Grades 10 and 11, who act as ambassadors for George Municipality.

Members of the JCC, accompanied by their parents, attended their badge confirmation ceremony recently. Proud parents witnessed their children being led by the Speaker of the George Council, Cllr Sean Snyman, as they took the Solemn Oath of Office, pledging to serve the City of George with integrity and by leading through example.

The Executive Mayor, Alderlady Jackie von Brandis, and the Portfolio Councillor for Community Development, Libraries and Sport, Cllr Melvin Roelfse, jointly conferred the JCC members with their official George JCC badges. The Executive Mayor emphasised to the learners that they are no longer ordinary members of the community. By accepting this responsibility, they have undertaken a commitment to serve the City of George and its residents with dedication and ethical leadership.

Photos:

Learners from the JCC delivers the oath.

Ald Jackie von Brandis and Cllr Melvin Roelfse confers badges to learners.

Ald Jackie von Brandis and Cllr Melvin Roelfse confers badges to learners.

Ald Jackie von Brandis and Cllr Melvin Roelfse confers badges to learners.

The photo above is for illustration purposes only.

George Municipality is pressing ahead with plans to purchase electricity from Independent Power Producers (IPPs) as part of its strategy to secure more cost-effective power for the city. While the arrangement will not shield residents from load shedding it does open the door to competitive pricing that could help keep municipal finances more sustainable in the long run. Thus, electricity will be sourced from alternative producers rather than solely from Eskom. This decision comes as Eskom continues with tariff increases that have risen faster than inflation.

By diversifying electricity supply and working with multiple producers – particularly those using renewable sources – the Municipality aims to reduce the risks of depending on a single supplier and to improve long-term cost stability.

“Partnering with IPPs will support renewable energy targets and limit the operational and maintenance burden on the Municipality, as the private sector will manage its own electricity generation plants,” said Michael Rhode, Director of Electrical Engineering Services. “This is a key step in ensuring George has a resilient energy future.”

 Two tracks: short-term and long-term agreements

The Municipality is pursuing two types of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) at the same time:

• Short-term PPA (three years) – Expected to deliver in the order of 10 megawatts (MW) of capacity, likely from a solar PV facility. A typical 10 MW plant could produce over 10 million kilowatt-hours each year. These agreements have fewer legislative requirements and can be implemented in a shorter timeframe as longer term PPA’s.
• Long-term PPA (20 years) – Larger scale PPA in the order of 20 MW as a first phase. Additional contracts may follow in future. This process involves more legislative steps and is expected to take about two years from procurement to signing of the PPA.

George Municipality is assisted by a Transactional advisory team, which was appointed by the Western Cape Government to achieve its goals.

The short-term PPA tender is currently with the Municipality’s Supply Chain Management unit and is expected to be advertised during September 2025. The long-term PPA’s Supply chain process is scheduled to begin in October 2025, with the contracts and PPA expected to be finalised before June 2027 if timelines are met. Once the PPA is signed, the IPP will be responsible for the supply of energy as per the contract.

All environmental approvals, construction and ongoing plant management, which include all operations and maintenance will be the responsibility of the IPP. The Municipality will pay only for the electricity supplied, with risks such as financing, construction and performance carried by the IPP.

Benefits for George

Although final pricing will only be confirmed after the tender process, the Municipality expects competitive and more predictable tariffs compared with current Eskom rates. Any major IPP agreement will be followed by a cost-of-supply study, which may lead to a review of George Municipality’s electricity tariffs.

“This approach is not just about today’s costs,” Rhode said. “It’s about creating a cost-effective electricity supply that benefits residents and businesses for decades to come.”

In addition to potential cost-effective electricity, the move supports national climate and renewable energy goals whilst also creating a more sustainable environment for economic growth.