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Author: Nadine Payle

UPDATED: 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:
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 receive a statement that reflects water charges in line with the current tariff structure:
• George Emergency Level 3 tariffs: Up until 11 May 2026
• Haarlem and Uniondale Emergency Level 3 tariffs: Up until 11 May 2026

Please note that the Municipality is currently on Normal Water Tariffs effective from 12 May 2026.

Billing Implications
Residents and consumers are advised that the lifting of the Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs may not result in a substantial reduction in the municipal water charges reflected on the May 2026 accounts. This is due to the fact that a number of meter reading routes had already been closed and processed prior to the effective implementation date of 12 May 2026.

Consequently, portions of the May 2026 billing cycle were still calculated in accordance with the previ-ously approved emergency water tariffs. Consumers are therefore expected to observe a more signifi-cant reduction in the water tariffs charged on accounts issued during the June 2026 billing cycle, when the revised tariffs will be fully incorporated across all billing routes.

 

GM May 2026 Municipal Newspaper

Read the May 2026 edition of the George Municipal Newspaper online for the latest municipal news, community projects and important information affecting residents across George.

📖 View the newspaper here:

https://tinyurl.com/2shseytt

George Municipality Thanks Community for Support Following Storm Surge and Ongoing Clean-Up Operations

George Municipality would like to sincerely thank residents and the broader community for their patience, understanding, and support following the recent storm surge and its impact on the town.

A special word of appreciation is extended to all residents, volunteers, community organisations, and stakeholders who came out on Saturday, 16 May, to assist with the clean-up efforts across the town. Your willingness to give your time and contribute towards restoring our community reflects a strong spirit of unity and civic responsibility, and your efforts are greatly valued and appreciated.
Municipal teams are continuing with the removal of hazardous and overhanging trees, as well as the clearing of storm-related debris across affected areas. The Municipality would like to assure the public that all areas where municipal trees have fallen will be attended to. Tree removal operations will continue according to the scheduled programme, subject to weather conditions and operational considerations.

Ongoing Clean-up Operations and Waste Disposal Appeal
The Municipality further appeals to residents to refrain from disposing of garden refuse and other waste on municipal pavements and in public spaces. Residents are encouraged to continue making use of the designated landfill facilities and to follow the established waste disposal procedures to assist in maintaining a clean and safe environment for all.
George Municipality thanks all residents for their ongoing cooperation and support as restoration efforts continue.

The table below outlines the planned programme for the removal of trees and storm-related debris across the affected areas.

Leadership Endorses Internal Audit Awareness Month Campaign

Executive Mayor, Ald B Johnson, and Chief Audit Executive, Mr JP Rossouw, with the Internal Audit Team holding the Certificate of Full Conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards.

George Municipality is proud to announce that the Executive Mayor, Browen Johnson, and Acting Municipal Manager, B Ellman, have officially endorsed the Internal Audit (IA) Awareness Month campaign for May, reinforcing the Municipality’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.

During recent engagement sessions between the Internal Audit Unit, the Executive Mayor, and the Acting Municipal Manager, key focus areas of the campaign were presented, highlighting the critical role Internal Audit plays in safeguarding public resources and strengthening institutional integrity.

Internal Audit Awareness Month serves to educate stakeholders and the broader community about the value of internal auditing within the public sector. Municipalities are entrusted with managing public funds, delivering essential services, and maintaining public trust. The Internal Audit function plays a vital role in ensuring that risks are managed effectively, controls are in place, and governance processes are continuously improved.

The Executive Mayor and Acting Municipal Manager expressed full support for the initiative and emphasised the importance of leadership in promoting ethical governance and accountability. The endorsement signals strong leadership backing, which is essential in driving awareness and encouraging participation across all levels of the Municipality and the community.

Acting Municipal Manager, Mr B Ellman, with the Internal Audit Team.

“Internal Audit plays a vital role in strengthening accountability, transparency, and good governance within George Municipality. As leaders, we must continue supporting initiatives that protect public resources and build confidence in the work we do. Through this awareness campaign, we not only recognise the valuable contribution of the Internal Audit Unit, but also promote a culture of ethical governance, accountability, and continuous improvement across the institution. I commend the team for their dedication to excellence and for helping ensure that George Municipality remains responsive, accountable, and committed to delivering quality services to our residents,” said Browen Johnson.

As part of the campaign, the Internal Audit Unit has planned a series of awareness and educational activities, including:

  • Outreach initiatives to local schools and tertiary institutions to promote the Internal Audit profession among youth
  • Internal engagement activities, such as directorate walkabouts and interactive campaign.
  • Ongoing communication through various platforms to simplify and demystify the role of Internal Audit

The campaign also builds on a series of milestones achieved earlier this year, including professional development initiatives, benchmarking engagements, and the achievement of Full Conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards.

Through this initiative, the Municipality aims to foster a culture of accountability, enhance understanding of governance processes, and strengthen public confidence in municipal operations.

CITY-WIDE ROAD AND TRANSPORT UPGRADES BENEFITING ALL ROAD USERS

Mission Street HR

George Municipality continues to invest in safer, more efficient and accessible transport infrastructure that benefits all road users, including motorists, public transport commuters, cyclists and pedestrians. Through the Public Transport Network Grant (PTNG) administered by the National Department of Transport, approximately R571 million was allocated during the 2024/25 financial year.

This investment was utilized to improve traffic flow, rehabilitating ageing roads, upgrading sidewalks and intersections, enhancing pedestrian safety, and expanding universal accessibility infrastructure to better accommodate persons with special needs, elderly residents and parents with prams.

The programme also supports the continued expansion of the GO GEORGE bus service through the construction of transfer locations and associated public transport infrastructure, contributing to a smarter, more connected and commuter-friendly city.

ROAD REHABILITATION PROJECTS – PROGRESS UPDATES
George Municipality remains committed to keeping residents informed through regular progress updates on infrastructure upgrades taking place across the city.

Pacaltsdorp
The following projects have been completed in Pacaltsdorp:
• Mission Street
• Protea Street (Phases 1-4)
• Beach/Panther Transfer Location
Beukes Street is 86% complete with the final asphalt overlay outstanding and finishing off the road reserve as well as completing the UA infrastructure.

Heather, Haydn and Rose Streets is 89% complete with roadworks still taking place in Rose Street and remedial works taking place in Heather Street.

Rose Str Culvert

Genesis Street: Construction is estimated to commence on 20 May 2026 with an expected construction duration of four months, leading to a completion date of end of September 2026.

Thembalethu
The following projects have been completed in Thembalethu:
• Ngcakani and Ncamanza Streets
• Tabata and 26th Streets (Phase 3)
• Tabata Street (Phase 4)
• Jonga Street Transfer Location (Phase 1)
• 26th Street Transfer Location (Phase 1)

The remaining phases of the Jonga Street Transfer Location and 26th Transfer Location are planned to be completed by end of June 2026.

Tabata Str-Stabilization

George Industria
• PW Botha Boulevard is 84% complete with major roadworks taking place between Rand and Ossie Urban Street. Other outstanding works include final asphalt overlay on numerous phases of the project, completion of sidewalks, completion of UA infrastructure, completion of road markings, finishing up the road reserve, etc. The Completion of the project is expected at the end of August 2026.

PW Botha- Asphalt Paving

Rosemoor
The following projects have been completed in Rosemoor:
• Beer and Woltemade Streets (Phases 1 & 2). Minor defects are still being attended to, before the project can be regarded as completed.
• O’Connell Street. Minor defects are still being attended to, before the project can be regarded as completed.
• Beer Street (Phase 3) is 90% complete with minor roadworks that still need to be completed as well as finishing up the road reserve as well as UA infrastructure. The completion of the project is scheduled for the end of May 2026.

Heather Park
The following projects have been completed in Heather Park:
• Airway Street
• Pine Street
Plattner Boulevard (Phase 1) is 66% complete with major roadworks still taking place between Barkhuizen and Airway Street. The completion of the project is scheduled for the end of August 2026.

Bo Dorp
• The Wellington Street intersection and sidewalk project has been completed.

George Central
• Cradock Street is 45% complete with major roadworks taking place between Hibernia and Market Street. Outstanding work includes completion of roadworks, sidewalks, shelters, UA infrastructure, etc. The completion of the project is scheduled for end of August 2026. Traffic flow is permanently one lane from north to south.

Cradock Str-1 HR

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.

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF LANDFILL SITE

Due to the current wet conditions and overcapacity at the landfill site, the facility will be temporarily closed for four hours today for safety reasons.

This temporary closure will allow the bulldozer to clear the area and create safe access for both residents and vehicles.

The site will reopen at 12:00 pm.

We kindly request that residents return after 12:00 pm to help ensure:

* Safe access to the site
* Prevention of vehicles becoming stuck in the mud
* Safe operating conditions for all users and staff

We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

UPDATE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MUNICIPAL FACILITIES

George Municipality advises the public that some municipal services are still temporarily unavailable due to storm-related damage.

REOPENED TO THE PUBLIC
• Worker Collection Point – 12 Industrial Street
• BLANCO MVR – Open to the public
• Wilderness Tourism Offices
• EPWP Database Offices

INTERMITTENT TELEPHONE/ INTERNET SERVICE
The service provider is attending to all issues to ensure connectivity and telephone access to the following departments:

1. Social Development Offices – Telephone lines are active.
2. Landfill Site Transfer Station – Telephone lines are active.
3. Pacaltsdorp Library – No internet access. Telephone lines remain down.
4. George Library – No internet or telephone connectivity available.
5. Blanco Library – No internet access.
6. Touwsranten Library – Intermittent internet access.
7. Waboomskraal Library – No internet connection.
8. Haarlem – No internet connection.
9. Thembalethu Library – Internet connectivity restored; telephone lines remain down.

GENERAL CONTACT DETAILS
Switchboard: 044 801 9111 (07:45 – 16:30)
General public queries (non-emergency): gmun@george.gov.za

REPORTING MUNICIPAL ISSUES
Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency municipal-related issues via the My Smart City – George App or by emailing gmun@george.gov.za which provide a reference for your fault.

My Smart City – George App can be downloaded via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or via www.mysmart.city. Residents may also scan the QR code printed on their municipal statement.

George Municipality thanks residents for their patience and cooperation during this challenging period.

Enforcement of Land Use and Building by-laws: safeguarding, safe quality living environments

The Land Use Development and Regulatory Compliance Department exists to protect the public by making sure that buildings and land uses are safe and lawful in terms of national standards and code. Enforcement is not punitive but serves as a warning to owners and developers that their activities may present a risk to residents, their homes and municipal services and demands measure to safeguard against such risks. This can be achieved partly by ensuring compliance with national legislation and municipal by-laws, which apply equally to all property, whether private or public.

The process ensures that owners take measures to ensure that buildings are structurally sound and safe to occupy, that they comply with norms and standards, and that people do not damage services such as water, sewer and electricity lines. Unauthorised building can cause damage to a person’s own property, their neighbour’s property, and critical municipal infrastructure.

How enforcement works
Enforcement takes place in three main ways:
• Complaints received from members of the public
• Routine area inspections and surveys
• Monitoring compliance with approved building plans and land use approvals

When a contravention is detected, the matter is registered and assigned to a case officer for investigation which starts with a desktop investigation to confirm whether authorizations are in place and assess the potential risks based on digital data at their disposal.

If needed, an inspection is conducted. Inspections are conducted lawfully in terms of section 15(1) of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, which authorises officials to enter land or buildings at reasonable times to assess compliance. It is preferred that the owners are present during the inspection to engage about possible means to rectify the issue.

What happens if there is non-compliance?
If non-compliance is identified:
• The owner is informed; and
• A formal notice is issued explaining the contravention and the steps that can be taken to rectify.

The notice usually gives the owner options, which may include:
• Submitting the required application
• Removing the unlawful structure
• Stopping the unauthorised activity

The municipality does not impose penalties immediately. Several notices (typically up to three) are issued to give property owners reasonable opportunity to respond and make use of the available options. Property owners are encouraged to contact the department for guidance and assistance in resolving the matter.
Where an owner is clearly taking steps to rectify the issue, the municipality is open to granting an extension of time to comply, provided the activity does not pose a risk to life, property or essential services.

Fines, legal action and misinformation
Legal action is considered only as a last resort, after repeated failure to cooperate and remedy non-compliance. Litigation is not preferred, as it can be costly and time-consuming for both the municipality and the property owner.

If attempts to secure voluntary compliance are unsuccessful, a section 56 notice (which would include a fine and/or a requirement to appear in court) may be issued in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act. This still provides the individual with a further opportunity to make representations to the court.

It is also important to correct misinformation. Contrary to statements circulating on social media, the municipality does not impose a blanket fine of R6 000 for structures such as tool sheds. Any fines or penalties are determined through the proper legal process and depend on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Why compliance benefits everyone
The municipality has a legal and ethical duty to ensure that development is safe, orderly and lawful, for the benefit of all residents. Unchecked and unsafe building work can overload services, damage infrastructure, increase the risk of fires or structural failure, and incur costs that must ultimately be carried by law-abiding ratepayers.

Enforcement of bylaws is therefore a key element of good governance. It protects the rights and interests of all affected parties and is applied fairly and consistently, with multiple opportunities given to property owners to comply. It is not an instrument of “oppression”, but a regulated system designed to uphold the law, protect public safety and infrastructure, and allow residents the opportunity to regularise any non-compliance.

Residents are encouraged to contact the Land Use Development and Regulatory Compliance Department directly at 044 801 9171 for assistance, clarification or support in regularising any structures or land use activities.
Report suspected activities to mhwelman@george.gov.za, smoshani@george.gov.za or use the MySmartCity app to log a complaint by downloading the app on www.mysmart.city

 

UNPLANNED POWER OUTAGE HOEKWIL DUE TO TREE CUTTING NEAR POWER LINES

Please be advised that an unplanned power outage has occurred in the Hoekwil area after a resident cut down a tree which fell onto the main power line.

Technical teams are attending to the matter and work is underway to restore power as soon as possible.

Residents are kindly reminded to exercise extreme caution when cutting or trimming trees near electrical infrastructure.

SERIOUS DANGER OF CUTTING TREES NEAR POWER LINES
Cutting or trimming trees and shrubs near power lines is extremely dangerous and can lead to extended power outages for your area, fires, and serious safety risks for you and your neighbors.

Do not take any chances. Before starting any tree work or hiring a tree cutting service, always check for overhead electrical lines.

If power lines are in the vicinity of your planned work and could be affected, contact George Municipality Electrotechnical Services immediately during office hours at the numbers below.
An official will come out to inspect the area and determine if it’s safe to proceed. If the tree cutting is considered too risky, the municipality will arrange to shut down the electricity and handle the tree removal safely.

Please contact us at least 48 hours prior. Your call will be logged, and you will receive a reference number.

If you notice any trees or vegetation on municipal property that could pose a risk to electrical lines, report it right away. Provide your name, contact information, and the location of the potential hazard.

Your safety and the safety of others is our top priority. Thank you for taking this matter seriously and for your cooperation.

Contact Information:
Office hours: 044 801 9222 or 044 803 9222
After-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

UPDATE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MUNICIPAL FACILITIES

George Municipality advises the public that some municipal facilities and services are temporarily unavailable due to storm-related damage.

CLOSED FACILITIES
• Worker Collection Point – 12 Industrial Street – operating from 4th floor, Main Municipal Building.

REOPENED TO THE PUBLIC
• BLANCO MVR – Open to the public
• Wilderness Tourism Offices
• EPWP Database Offices

INTERMITTENT TELEPHONE/ INTERNET SERVICE
The service provider has resolved all known issues with regard to telephone system.
1) Landfill Site and Social Development Offices -currently no internet or telephone connectivity available.
2. Pacaltsdorp Library – No Internet Access.
3. George Library – No internet or telephone connectivity available.
4. Blanco Library – No internet
5. Touwsranten Library –Intermittent Internet Access
6. Waboomskraal Library – No internet connection.
7. Haarlem Internet – No internet connection.
8. Thembalethu Library – Internet connectivity restored. Telephone lines remain down.

GENERAL CONTACT DETAILS
Switchboard: 044 801 9111 (07:45 – 16:30)
General public queries (non-emergency): gmun@george.gov.za

REPORTING MUNICIPAL ISSUES
Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency municipal-related issues via the My Smart City – George App or by emailing gmun@george.gov.za which provide a reference for your fault.

My Smart City – George App can be downloaded via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or via www.mysmart.city. Residents may also scan the QR code printed on their municipal statement.

George Municipality thanks residents for their patience and cooperation during this challenging period.

Thembalethu residents benefitting from new route to Garden Route Mall

All role-players were in high spirits as (from left) GO GEORGE Manager Morné Lakay, George Link Director John Heathcote, and Garden Route District Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Alderman Marais Kruger, popped confetti canons to celebrate the launch of Route 11 between Thembalethu and the Garden Route Mall. (The confetti was cleared away immediately afterwards.)

Thembalethu residents celebrated a long awaited milestone on Sunday, 17 May 2026, as GO GEORGE officially launched Route 11 Thembalethu – Garden Route Mall. As the third bus route to serve this community, it marks a major step forward in expanding public transport access.
The route was officially activated by an early morning ride from the Jonga Terminus, joined by Executive Mayor of the Garden Route District Municipality, Alderman Marais Kruger, municipal officials and invited guests.

At the Garden Route Mall terminus, Mayor Kruger officially declared the route operational and described the launch as an important moment for mobility and economic access for the residents of Thembalethu. “Today is more than the launch of a new route — it is a step towards greater dignity, opportunity and connection for residents of Thembalethu. They have waited patiently for this direct route, and I am proud that the George Municipality together with the Western Cape Mobility Department can finally deliver this service,” he said.

Reflecting on the milestone, Western Cape Minister of Mobility, MEC Isaac Sileku, highlighted how Route 11 strengthens the province’s commitment to accessible, resident centred mobility. “The GO GEORGE network continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when government, operators and communities work together. Route 11 is another example of public transport development that responds directly to the needs of residents,” he said. “A direct route to the Mall opens doors — to a more dignified way to get to work, access services, and reach new opportunities. I look forward to meeting the commuters who will benefit from this new link. Their experiences guide our decisions, and their needs shape the future of mobility in George.”

A direct connection shaped by community need
Route 11 provides a seamless link between Thembalethu and the Garden Route Mall precinct, home to several major shopping centres and employment hubs. Until now, many residents relied on multi transfer journeys via the N2 bridge and Route 16. The new route eliminates that detour entirely.

With Route 11 in place, passengers can also transfer to other routes at the Mall to reach Rosemoor, Loerie Park, Eden, Bergsig, George East, and the CBD, including several schools and major businesses en route. This shift is expected to ease congestion on Route 15 (Parkdene–CBD) and Route 16 (Parkdene–Garden Route Mall), as Thembalethu passengers who previously transferred to these routes can now travel directly to the Mall and further into town.

Supporting passengers with information and digital tools

In the weeks leading up to the launch, the GO GEORGE communication team engaged with Thembalethu residents travelling to the Mall, explaining the new route and helping both current and future users understand their travel options.
Passengers now also have access to GoBot, the GO GEORGE chat assistant, which provides instant help with route planning and system information. Users can chat to GoBot on WhatsApp by saving 078 090 6168, or by scanning the QR codes displayed on pole collars at bus stops.

Additionally, the GO GEORGE website (www.gogeorge.org.za) offers user-friendly tools designed to help passengers plan trips and explore the network.

 

TWO TEMPORARY GREEN WASTE CHIPPING SITES AND EXTENDED LANDFILL HOURS

George Municipality will continue with clean-up operations across the city following the severe weather events experienced over the past two weeks.

Municipal Street Cleansing teams will continue working throughout the weekend together with Parks and Recreation teams, who are actively cutting up and removing felled trees and storm-related debris across affected areas.

TEMPORARY WOOD CHIPPERS
A temporary wood chipper has been placed at the corner of Merriman and Union Streets to assist residents with the disposal of storm-related tree branches and green waste. Residents may bring branches measuring between 6cm and 10cm in diameter for chipping instead of travelling to the landfill site.
In addition, residents may also drop off suitable storm-related green waste and tree material at the George Road sports grounds in Blanco, where material will be collected and chipped on-site. Chipping times at the Blanco site will be the same as the Merriman and Union Street site from tomorrow onwards.

The temporary chipping sites will operate:
Friday: 08h00 – 16h00
Saturday: 08h00 – 16h00
Sunday: 08h00 – 16h00

The temporary chipping sites have been established to assist with the increased volume of green waste resulting from fallen trees and storm damage across the municipality.

SKIPS AT KEY LOCATIONS
To support the wider clean-up effort, skips will be placed at key locations across the municipality and brown refuse bags will be made available to residents where possible.

EXTENDED LANDFILL SITE OPERATING HOURS
Saturday: 07h00 – 17h00
Sunday: 07h00 – 13h00

Residents are requested to cooperate with officials on-site and to ensure that only suitable green waste is brought to the facilities. No general household waste or building rubble will be accepted.
George Municipality thanks all residents, volunteers, businesses, and partner organisations for their continued support and cooperation during the disaster response period.

George Naturally showcases destination at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026

George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism, joining forces with the Garden Route & Klein Karoo district and neighbouring town, Knysna, are representing the region at one of the continent’s premier tourism trade exhibitions currently taking place at the Durban ICC from 12–14 May 2026. 

This year’s inspiring theme, “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy,” the team joins thousands of tourism professionals, buyers, exhibitors and media representatives from across Africa and international markets to promote the exceptional experiences, natural beauty and investment opportunities that the George region and wider Garden Route & Klein Karoo have to offer.

As a key tourism hub in the Western Cape, George continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for leisure, adventure, golf, nature-based tourism, business events and lifestyle travel. Participation at Africa’s Travel Indaba provides an important platform to engage directly with travel trade partners, build strategic relationships and stimulate future visitor growth to the region.
Snr Tourism Marketer, Sharon House is using the opportunity to showcase the destination’s diverse offerings — from world-class golf courses and scenic mountain landscapes to beaches, forests, culinary experiences and outdoor adventure activities — while reinforcing the area’s reputation as the ideal gateway to the Garden Route.

“Africa’s Travel Indaba remains one of the most significant tourism marketing platforms on the continent, and we are excited to position George, Wilderness and Uniondale prominently among Africa’s leading destinations,” said Joan Shaw, George’s Tourism Manager. “The event allows us to strengthen valuable trade partnerships, increase destination visibility and contribute towards growing tourism opportunities and economic impact for our local communities.”

This year’s Indaba has placed strong emphasis on tourism’s role in driving economic growth, investment and job creation across Africa, aligning closely with George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism’s ongoing commitment to sustainable destination development and regional collaboration.

For more information contact:
Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager, George Municipality
jshaw@george.gov.za : 081 412 9995

INVITATION FOR SUDS TRAINING COURSE

George Municipality will host a two-day training course on Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS), focusing on practical implementation and technical foundations.

The training forms part of the GIZ Low Carbon and Climate Resilient Water and Wastewater Management Project and supports the Municipality’s Sponge City goals.

The course is open to built environment professionals, consultants, engineers, planners, landscape architects, and members of the public.

Please RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/5ne8br7v

 

UPDATE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MUNICIPAL FACILITIES

George Municipality advises the public that some municipal facilities and services are temporarily unavailable due to storm-related damage.

CLOSED FACILITIES
Worker Collection Point – 12 Industrial Street – operating from 4th floor, Main Municipal Building. Damage assessments will be conducted today

REOPENED TO THE PUBLIC
• BLANCO MVR – Open to the public
• Wilderness Tourism Offices
• EPWP Database Offices

INTERMITTENT TELEPHONE/ INTERNET SERVICE
The service provider has resolved all known issues with regard to telephone system.
1) Landfill Site and Social Development Offices -currently no internet or telephone connectivity available.
2) George Library – currently no internet or telephone connectivity available.
3) Blanco Library – power outage; no public internet access
4) Touwsranten Library – antenna damaged; no public internet access
5) Waboomskraal Library – no internet connection
6) Thembalethu Library – unstable and intermittent connectivity

GENERAL CONTACT DETAILS
Switchboard: 044 801 9111 (07:45 – 16:30)
General public queries (non-emergency): gmun@george.gov.za

REPORTING MUNICIPAL ISSUES
Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency municipal-related issues via the My Smart City – George App or by emailing gmun@george.gov.za which provide a reference for your fault.

My Smart City – George App can be downloaded via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or via www.mysmart.city Residents may also scan the QR code printed on their municipal statement.

George Municipality thanks residents for their patience and cooperation during this challenging period.

TEMPORARY GREEN WASTE CHIPPING SITE AND EXTENDED LANDFILL HOURS

George Municipality will continue with clean-up operations across the city following the severe weather events experienced over the past two weeks.

Municipal Street Cleansing teams will continue working throughout the weekend together with Parks and Recreation teams, who are actively cutting up and removing felled trees and storm-related debris across affected areas.

TEMPORARY WOOD CHIPPER
A temporary wood chipper has been placed at the corner of Merriman and Union Streets to assist residents with the disposal of storm-related tree branches and green waste. Residents may bring branches measuring between 6cm and 10cm in diameter for chipping instead of travelling to the landfill site.

The temporary chipping site has been established to assist with the increased volume of green waste resulting from fallen trees and storm damage across the municipality. The wood chipper will operate today from 08:00 to 16:00, Saturday 8:00 to 16:00 and Sunday 8:00 to 16:00.

SKIPS AT KEY LOCATIONS
To support the wider clean-up effort, skips will be placed at key locations across the municipality and brown refuse bags will be made available to residents where possible.

EXTENDED LANDFILL SITE OPERATING HOURS
Saturday: 07h00 – 17h00
Sunday: 07h00 – 13h00

Residents are requested to cooperate with officials on-site and to ensure that only suitable green waste is brought to the facility. No general household waste or building rubble will be accepted.

George Municipality thanks all residents, volunteers, businesses, and partner organisations for their continued support and cooperation during the disaster response period.

UPDATE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF MUNICIPAL FACILITIES AND SERVICE DISRUPTIONS DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS

Issued by George Municipality – 14 May 2026 @ 09:52

George Municipality advises the public that some municipal facilities and services are temporarily unavailable due to storm-related damage.

CLOSED FACILITIES
• Worker Collection Point – 12 Industrial Street – operating from 4th floor, Main Municipal Building
• BLANCO MVR Closed

REOPENED TO THE PUBLIC
Wilderness Tourism Offices
EPWP Database Offices

INTERMITTENT TELEPHONE/ INTERNET SERVICE
Various George Municipal offices are currently experiencing intermittent telephone line service due to severe storm damage caused by the extreme high winds on 11 May. Our service provider is actively working to resolve the issues.

We have noted that some calls connect, but staff are unable to hear callers speaking. The public is kindly requested to remain patient and To please report all faults on the SmartCity by visiting www.mysmart.city

George Library – no internet or telephone lines but open to public
• George Library – antenna damaged
• Blanco Library – power outage; no public internet access
• Touwsranten Library – antenna damaged; no public internet access
• Waboomskraal Library – no internet connection
• Thembalethu Library – unstable and intermittent connectivity

GENERAL CONTACT DETAILS
Switchboard: 044 801 9111 (07:45 – 16:30)
General public queries (non-emergency): gmun@george.gov.za

REPORTING MUNICIPAL ISSUES
Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency municipal-related issues via the My Smart City – George App or by emailing gmun@george.gov.za.
The NEW My Smart City – George App can be downloaded via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or via www.mysmart.city. Residents may also scan the QR code printed on their municipal statement.

George Municipality thanks residents for their patience and cooperation during this challenging period.