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Author: Nadine Payle

Electricity Cost of Supply Study and Proposed Electricity Tariff Structures 2026–2027

Residents are invited to take part in the upcoming George Municipal Public Participation meetings regarding the Electricity Cost of Supply study and resultant proposed electricity tariff structures for the 2026–2027 financial year. These sessions provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about the proposed tariffs, ask questions and share their input.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend the meeting scheduled for their ward, where municipal representatives will present information and engage directly with residents.

Cleaner Fires, Healthier Communities

Clean fire burns efficiently and produces minimal smoke and harmful pollutants. This is achieved by using appropriate fuels, ensuring good airflow, and using proper fire-lighting techniques.

Improving commuter connectivity and digital services in George

BEACH PANTHER TRANSFER LOCATION LAUNCH

Ready to be “unwrapped”: Bus stops, with covered bus shelters at the upgraded Beach Panther Transfer Facility in Pacaltsdorp are already in use but were officially “unwrapped” during a ceremony officiated by Minister Sileku.

On Tuesday, 24 February 2026, Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku joined officials from GO GEORGE and the George Municipality for a series of events with the George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN). The programme showcased major investment in road upgrades, commuter safety, and new digital tools to make the GO GEORGE bus service simpler and more efficient.

The first stop was in Pacaltsdorp, where the Beach Panther transfer facility was officially unveiled. The R17,6 million upgrade, funded through the Public Transport Network Grant (PTNG), has significantly improved the Beach Road area.
The new facility makes transferring between routes easier and safer for passengers. It features larger bus stops and shelters, wider median islands and paved walkways for safer pedestrian access, and dedicated cycle lanes to support non-motorised transport.

The second event took place in Thembalethu, where officials inspected progress on two major road upgrades, part of a larger R505 million grant-funded investment:
• Ngcakani Street: Phase 3 of a R68,52 million rehabilitation, now nearing completion.
• Tabata Street: Phase 4 of a R65,09 million upgrade, viewed during a drive-through and stop.

Both projects are mainly funded by the PTNG, with a 5% contribution from the George Municipality, ensuring these key bus routes are strong, safe, and durable for bus transport.

At the TRUNS transfer location in Thembalethu, GoBot, GO GEORGE’s new AI-powered chat bot, was launched. This marks two years of investment in easy-to-use, 24/7 digital tools for commuters.
Key digital upgrades make commuting easier and more convenient. GO GEORGE now offers GoBot, a 24/7 chat bot for quick trip planning, and a revamped website with an interactive stop explorer and live timetables. Smart infrastructure, including digital screens and QR-coded “pole collars” at 40 pilot stops, links passengers directly to GoBot and the website. At the same time, communication champions equipped with tablets provide in-person support, ensuring traditional assistance remains available alongside these new digital services.

The day ended with a ride on the Industrial Route (Route 10) from the Jonga terminus. Since launching in October 2024, the route has become a vital link for workers and students, connecting Thembalethu to George Industria and schools such as York High School and Eden Technical High School. Passenger numbers on this route have grown dramatically from 1 437 at launch, to a peak of 22 628 per month.

“Today was a proud moment as we saw first-hand how our investments are transforming the daily commute for the people of George. Walking through the streets of Ngcakani, Tabata, and Beach Road, and seeing the new transfer hubs and digital tools in action, reminded me that this isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about improving the dignity and convenience of every commuter. Launching GoBot and witnessing how it complements traditional support shows that GO GEORGE is truly becoming a service with access to information around the clock and for everyone, connecting residents to jobs, schools, and other opportunities safely and efficiently,” reflected Minister Sileku.


Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Sileku, flanked by Parliamentary representatives and guests, officially launched the upgraded facilities at the GO GEORGE Beach/Panther Transfer Facility in Pacaltsdorp on 24 February.


All hands on deck: Contractors are hard at work at the current Phase of the Tabata Street upgrade project in Thembalethu.

GO GEORGE launches new digital tools for commuters

Western Cape MEC for Mobility, Minister Isaac Sileku, featured at the GO GEORGE venue at TRUNS, where he officially launched GoBot – the newest addition to the GO GEORGE bouquet of information channels. He is featured with Communication Champions, and other attendees, and props used to introduce the concept.

GO GEORGE has launched a campaign to help passengers use its growing range of digital self-help tools. While many commuters have long relied on the Call Centre, Facebook enquiries or email for assistance, there is a growing need for faster, more convenient options that passengers can access anytime. Over the past two years, the service has been investing in technology to make trip planning easier and available 24/7.

Recent upgrades include a revamped website with an interactive stop explorer and updated timetables, GoBot (the service’s dedicated chat bot) for instant answers, and digital information screens that will soon be installed at key locations.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku visited the TRUNS Transfer Location on 24 February 2026 to demonstrate how these tools, including GoBot, provide commuters with real-time travel information and route planning support.

“Our goal is to build a transport system that respects the time and dignity of every commuter,” said Minister Sileku. “By putting real-time information directly into passengers’ hands through GoBot and our upgraded digital platforms, we are removing the uncertainty from public transport. Whether someone is travelling to school, work or home, they can now plan their journeys with greater confidence and reliability whenever it suits them – not only during working hours.”

GO GEORGE Manager Morné Lakay said that while the service is embracing technology, personal support remains available.

“We know that not everyone is comfortable using digital tools straight away,” said Lakay. “That is why our communication champions are providing step-by-step guidance on buses and at transfer points. We are also visiting SASSA grant sites and old age homes to ensure that senior citizens and vulnerable passengers are supported and not left behind.”

Key features of the campaign include:
• GoBot: The dedicated chat bot offering real-time schedules and easy trip planning.
• Interactive QR codes: A pilot of 40 pole collars at key stops gives passengers instant access to GoBot and timetables.
• On-the-ground training: Direct engagement at schools, Nelson Mandela University and community hubs.

Passengers are encouraged to explore these digital tools online to enjoy a more convenient and seamless travel experience.

 

Understanding Your Water Bill: 6kl Water Allowance and System Estimate Reversal

Free Basic Water Allowance
Every residential account gets 6 kℓ of free water per month, this equates to (6kℓ x 12 months) = 72kℓ per year.
To make billing fair, and accurate the free water is now applied per day: 72 kl per year÷365.25 (average days in an entire leap cycle)≈0.197 kl per day
This means your free allowance depends on the number of days between meter readings, not just a fixed 6 kℓ per reading.

Examples
29-day reading: 29 × 0.197 kℓ ≈ 5.7 kℓ free
32-day reading: 32 × 0.197 kℓ ≈ 6.3 kℓ free

Small amounts on your bill (e.g., R2–R5) simply reflect water used above the free allowance.
✅No extra charges
✅No loss of free water
✅Billing is now accurate and fair

System Estimates Reversal
When your meter reading is estimated and an actual reading is later obtained the system will automatically reverse all estimated charges from the date of the last estimate and recalculate your water consumption using the per-day method.

 

In this case, the system will reverse the December and January estimates and recalculate your total consumption from 15/10/2025 to 19/01/2026.

If we estimated that you used 44 (22+22) kilolitres, but the real reading later shows you actually used 62 kilolitres between the previous and current reading dates:

  • The estimate is reversed.
  • The system recalculates the period based on the actual 62 kilolitres.
  • The difference appears on your next bill

Previously, this correction was done manually via back-end journals. The new system automates it, making your billing more accurate, transparent, and fair.

Additional Information:
Customers may also receive a statement that shows their water charges split between:
George Normal tariffs
George Emergency Level 2 tariffs: 19 December 2025
George Emergency Level 3 tariffs: 5 January 2026
Haarlem and Uniondale Emergency Level  3 tariffs: 9 January 2026

These charges are calculated pro-rata based on the number of days each tariff applied during the billing period.

NEW PLATINUM CITIZEN PORTAL FOR MUNICIPAL ACCOUNTS

George Municipality has launched the new George Citizen Portal, which allows residents to view, download and print their municipal statements online.

How you will receive your statement
• Monthly municipal statements will still be sent by email as PDF attachments and via SMS with a secure link on the day of billing.
The second reminder SMS will only include the amount outstanding based on the debtors ageing.
• The portal is an additional option for viewing and managing your account online. Here you can also access the more detailed version of the statement.

Important information for registration
• Statements will appear on the portal after they have been issued by email and SMS.
• Use your new municipal account number when registering. Using old account numbers will cause registration to fail. Your new account number appears on your statement.
• The ID number or registration number must match the municipality’s records, or registration will fail.
• For business accounts, select the correct identification type and enter the business registration number.
• If you are unsure of your account or identification details, please contact the municipality for assistance before registering.

How to access the portal
• Visit www.george.gov.za and click the ACCOUNTS VIEW button to access the Platinum Citizen Portal.
• A step-by-step video guide is available on the George Municipality YouTube channel:
https://tinyurl.com/3evu6dn3

Need help?
• Email: accounts@george.gov.za
• Call: 044 801 9111 (during office hours)

FIBRE CABLE DAMAGE – SERVICE DISRUPTION NOTICE

Please be advised that the fibre cable has been damaged near the Human Settlements Department (old York Hostel). As a result, connectivity to the following sites has been affected:

* Human Settlements Department (old York Hostel)
* Traffic Department

Telephone lines at the affected sites are also impacted by this disruption.

Technicians are currently on-site working to resolve the issue. Further updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.

George Municipality appreciates your patience and understanding.

Refuse Collection Delay

Please be advised that all areas scheduled for refuse collection today will experience delays due to adverse weather conditions.

Affected areas:
Wilderness Heights, Dormehlsdrift, George South, Le Grand, Bos en Dal, Groeneweidepark, Sinksabrug, Herold, Geelhoutboom, Eselsjacht, Hansmoeskraal, Jonkershoek, Rooirivierrif, Pacaltsdorp, Rosedale, Waboomskraal, and Touwsranten Village.

Operations at Geelhoutboom Farm have been suspended due to unsafe road conditions caused by heavy rainfall since yesterday. Current rainfall levels pose serious safety risks to our drivers, employees, and road users.

Should weather conditions improve later today, operations may resume where possible. Services in severely affected areas may be rescheduled to tomorrow, weather permitting.

Further updates will be provided as necessary.

We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding as we prioritise safety.

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY ADVANCES CITY-WIDE ROAD AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES

Mission Street Completed Jan 2026

George Municipality is successfully moving forward with a major programme of road and infrastructure upgrades designed to improve mobility, safety, and accessibility across the city. While construction may cause temporary inconvenience for pedestrians and road users, the end result will be a safer, more efficient, and better-connected city for everyone.

The programme includes the rehabilitation of key roads, construction of critical intersections and transfer points, and the installation of sidewalks and infrastructure that meet universal access standards. These upgrades will enhance the flow of traffic, support local economic activity, and strengthen connections between communities.
By investing in these improvements, the Municipality is delivering a long-term vision of a resilient, accessible, and modern George that benefits residents, commuters, and visitors alike.

ROAD REHABILITATION PROJECTS – PROGRESS UPDATE
George Municipality is committed to providing regular progress updates on the road upgrades across the city:
Pacaltsdorp

• Mission Street: 94% complete. Construction commenced on 18 October 2024. The upgrading of Mission Street progressed to the extent that it was reopened for bi-directional traffic in December 2025. Current work includes the final line markings, road signage, and Universal Access compliance infrastructure. Completion is expected by March 2026.

Pacaltsdorp Roadworks update Feb 26

• Protea Street (Phases 3): 78% complete. Work commenced on 5 August 2025, and the scheduled revised completion date is in February 2026. Current activities include road layer works, kerbing, construction of stormwater structures and sidewalks.
• Protea Street (Phases 4): 48% complete. Work commenced on 29 September 2025 and is scheduled for completion in March 2026. Current activities include road layer works, kerbing, construction of stormwater structures and sidewalks.
• Heather, Haydn and Rose Streets: 70% complete. Construction commenced on 25 September 2024 and is expected to conclude in July 2026. Current activities include kerbing, layer works and stormwater structures. The road failure investigation has commenced, and the outcome is being determined.
• Beukes Street: 57% complete. Work commenced on 29 September 2025, and completion is expected in June 2026. The contractor is currently removing concrete block pavers, box-cutting, road layer works, relaying of cables, and stormwater drainage.
• Genesis Street: Commencement of the project is dependent on budget availability.

Thembalethu
• Ngcakani and Ncamanza Streets: 95% complete. Work commenced on 21 October 2024 and is scheduled to conclude in February 2026. Current activities include Löffelstein wall in Ncamanza (eastern side), stormwater manhole change in NMB/Ncamanza intersection to complete UA, sidewalk in Ncamanza and general snags.
• Tabata and 26th Streets: 99% complete. Construction commenced on 25 September 2024 and is scheduled to conclude in February 2026. Current activities include sidewalks and Universal Access compliance infrastructure.
• Tabata Street (Phase 4): The construction commenced in December 2025, with expected completion in May 2026.
George Industria

Tabata Street 1 Feb 26

• PW Botha Boulevard: 82% complete. Construction commenced on 26 September 2024 and is scheduled for completion in July 2026. Most sections of PW Botha Boulevard are again open to bi-directional traffic, except for one section (Phase 4), which includes layer works, stormwater drainage, cable accommodation, kerbing, sidewalks, and final asphalt surfacing.

As part of completing the construction work, traffic accommodation and control measures, and short temporary lane closures, are expected to be implemented at points along PW Botha Boulevard while the remaining works are being carried out.

Rosemoor
• Beer and Woltemade Streets (Phases 1 & 2): 96% complete. Construction commenced on 13 August 2024 and is expected to conclude in February 2026. Outstanding work includes finishing of work and finalisation of snags.
• Beer Street (Phase 3): 60% complete. Construction commenced on 04 August 2025 and is scheduled for completion in March 2026. Current works include relocation of existing services; road layer works and stormwater structures.
• O’Connell Street: 98% complete. Work commenced on 19 August 2024 and was practically completed and opened for traffic by end November 2025. Outstanding work is still being carried out and is expected to be completed by end February / begin March 2026.
Heather Park
• Plattner Boulevard (Phase 1): 15% complete. Construction commenced on 29 September 2025 and was scheduled for completion in March 2026. Unforeseen geotechnical conditions were encountered which effected the works and the revised completion date is scheduled for May 2026.

Plattner Bld Feb 2026

• Plattner Boulevard (Phase 2): Commencement of the project is dependent on budget availability.
George Central
• Cradock Street: 10 % complete. Work commenced on 11 November 2025 and is expected to conclude in July 2026. Current work is installing of Storm Water pipes and laying of kerbs. Traffic flow is permanently one lane from north to south.

COMPLETED PROJECTS
• Protea Street (Phase 1 & 2): Completed. Work commenced on 30 September 2024.
• Airway Street: Completed. Work commenced on 27 September 2025.
 Wellington Street: Completed. Work commenced on 19 June 2025.
• Pine Street: 100 % complete. Work commenced on 4 August 2025 . Completion Certificate issued 29 January 2026.

IMPACT OF ONGOING CONSTRUCTION
George Municipality acknowledges the impact of ongoing construction on bus operations and general traffic flow, particularly in Pacaltsdorp and surrounding areas. GO GEORGE is monitoring the situation closely and implementing mitigation measures, including temporary route adjustments and the deployment of additional buses where possible.
Passengers are encouraged to stay informed about service changes and construction-related adjustments by using the official GO GEORGE communication platforms.

Real-time updates on routes and timetables are available through the trip-planning tools on the website (www.gogeorge.org.za) Commuters can also follow the GO GEORGE Facebook page or subscribe to the WhatsApp Channel for instant notifications and service alerts.

The WhatsApp Channel can be joined directly via this link: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VanooYO002T09OyaKM3x

URGENT PUBLIC NOTICE_EMERGENCY POWER OUTAGE _ THEMBALETHU

Affected Areas are ZONE 4, ZONE 5, SILVERTON, PORTION OF ZONE 6

The electricity supply has been interrupted today 9 February and Tuesday 10 February during work hours (08h00 – 16h00) in order to address emergency work on the electrical mains.

Residents 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