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Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

Road Construction in Bos en Dal

The resurfacing of Long Street, Bos & Dal will impact road users from 10 to 28 June 2024.

Project:
Resurfacing of Long Street, Bos & Dal

PLANNED CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES:
The works comprise the resurfacing of Long Street, Bos & Dal. The section in question is between Sysie Crescent and Union Street. Also included is the repair of damaged kerbs. The length of the above road section is approximately 880 meters. There is one lane in each direction along this section of the road, with numerous accesses to residential properties. The width of the road is approximately 8.0 meters.

PROJECT PERIOD:
10 to 28 June 2024.

SERVICE DISRUPTION:
Traffic congestion can be expected.

TRAFFIC IMPACT:
The remedial work will require the milling and removal of existing bituminous layers as well as the milling and removal of existing gravel base layers. After the milling operations, will follow the placing of new bituminous base layers and surface layers. The affected section/lane of work for the day will be closed to traffic. Traffic will be accommodated to flow with the assistance of Flagmen throughout the project. Work will commence at 8h00 each day and is envisaged to be completed by 17h00 each day.

DRIVING COMFORT:
There will be height differences between the two lanes while milling and asphalt construction work is in progress. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians must exercise extreme caution, especially during wet conditions and when visibility is poor and at night. Vehicles with low-profile tyres and motorcyclists must take extra care.

PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Willie Vogel – 082 799 8130

The George Municipality apologises for the inconvenience and appeals to road users to be patient and exercise caution during the project. Please look out for and adhere to temporary road signage and roadworks personnel.

WEATHER ADVISORY: Drive Safely in Wet Conditions

WEATHER ADVISORY: Drive Safely in Wet Conditions
Issued by George Municipality Date: 4 June 2024 @12:30

Motorists are advised to exercise caution while driving in the current wet weather conditions. Particular attention should be given when driving on the Outeniqua Pass, as the road has become slippery.

Partial Road Closure:
There is a partial road closure on the N12 between Oudtshoorn and George. This is due to rock falling on one side of the road, affecting traffic flow from Oudtshoorn to George.

Contact Information:
• Emergencies: 044 801 6300
• Toll-Free Disaster Number: 087 152 9999

Stay safe and drive carefully!

Pacaltsdorp Library Establishes Mini-Library for the Blind

In the photo: Sitting is Robin Mouton a patron assisted by the Library for the Blind WC Project Team member

Pacaltsdorp Library, one of four libraries in the George Municipal precinct, is proud to announce the establishment of a Mini-Library for the Blind. Public libraries are mandated to provide inclusive services catering to all community needs, thereby improving the quality of life for all citizens. The Mini-Library for the Blind in Pacaltsdorp opens doors to knowledge and information for visually impaired residents, creating valuable learning opportunities.

Background of Mini-Libraries:
• Joint Initiative: The project is a collaboration between the Department of Arts & Culture (DAC) and the South African Library for the Blind (SALB).
• Pioneering Project: Initially launched in the Eastern Cape in 2010, the initiative has now been expanded to other provinces.
• Primary Objective: To provide access to reading materials through assistive devices and necessary technology.
• Bringing Services to the People: This initiative tangibly delivers library services, making public libraries more inclusive.
• Opportunities for All: The project benefits all illiterate and visually impaired individuals by offering free services.
• Positive Feedback: Communities benefiting from the project have expressed positive responses.

Advantages to Users:
• Social Interaction: Opportunity to interact with other library members.
• Access to Information and Technology: Users gain access to a variety of resources and technological tools.
• Training: Users receive training on provided technologies.
• Participation in Library Programs: Users can participate in book discussions, book clubs, and other library activities.
• Enrichment of Lives: The initiative makes a significant, tangible impact on users’ lives.
• Increased Reading Interest: Encourages a greater interest in reading.

“With the above-mentioned in mind, we would like to encourage visually impaired and illiterate people to take full advantage of this service by indicating to us (Library Services) if any people meet these requirements (that is visually impaired or illiterate),” said the Manager for library services in George, Ms Rachel Williams. “They can sign up for this service (become library members) by registering at Pacaltsdorp Library). Please bring along your ID and proof of residence to sign up. All interested ones can visit the library during operational hours,” Williams added.

By participating, users will benefit from enhanced access to information and resources designed to enrich their lives and foster a love for reading.

Contact Information:
• Location: Pacaltsdorp Library
• Contact Persons: Elton Snyders or Robyn Parks on telephone numbers: 044 803 9340 or to email address: rbparks@george.gov.za
• Operational Hours: Monday to Thursday between 09:00 and 17:30 and on Fridays between 09:00 and 17:00.

Ends.

Gwaiing Solar System Achieves Remarkable Energy and Cost Savings

Visit to the Gwaing Waste Water Treatment Works earlier this year: From left is Alderman Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor of George), Dr Michele Gratz (Municipal Manager), Daniel Greeff (Acting Director of Electrotechnical Services, George Municipality), Councillor Nosicelo Mbete (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services and Fleet Management), Thabo Yiga (Project Manager: Electrotechnical Services) and Edward Pienaar (Engineering Designer for RWK Electrical, the appointed contracting company).

The George Municipality is thrilled to announce that the newly installed 500 kWp solar system at the Gwaiing Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) which is located next to the landfill site adjacent to the old Airport Road has been fully operational since 25 March 2024 and it has been delivering remarkable results over the past two months.

The 500 kilowatts peak (kWp) grid-tied PV plant consists of 910 PV Panels & 5 x 100kW inverters at a total cost of around R8.7m (Inclusive of VAT), including a 24-month Operation and Maintenance period. It was commissioned on the 25th of March 2024 and is expected to generate in the order of 870 MWh of energy per year. The electricity generated is used to run the pumps and motors for the wastewater treatment works during the day.

Key Achievements:
• Energy Production: The solar system has generated a total of 112,000 kWh (units) of energy in two months.
• Cost Savings: With an average cost of R1.80 per kWh, the savings amount to R201,600.
• Environmental Impact: The system has reduced our carbon footprint by an estimated 53 tonnes, equivalent to planting 74 trees.

The implementation of this solar system highlights the George Municipality’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and reducing the environmental impact. The savings and carbon footprint reduction are significant milestones in our journey towards a greener future.

The Municipality wishes to thank the community for their support and looks forward to sharing more updates as we continue to enhance our sustainable energy infrastructure.

The solar system has generated a total of 112,000 kWh (units) of energy in two months

 

Temporary Closure of Gwaiing Landfill Site


Issued by George Municipality, 3 June 2024

Due to inclement weather, the Gwaing landfill site is temporarily closed as accessibility is currently poor. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

The George Waste Transfer Station remains open for the disposal of domestic waste. Please note that green bags will not be collected until further notice.

Planned Interruption of the Electricity Supply: Portion of Bergsig

PLANNED INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY: PORTION OF BERGSIG

THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF BERGSIG
2ND STR, KNYSNA RD, MANN STR, AMANDEL STR, REGHOEK STR, BOTHA STR

NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on THURSDAY 06 JUNE 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 15H00 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 from being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on FRIDAY 07 JUNE 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 15H00.

*

BEPLANDE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER: GEDEELTE VAN BERGSIG

DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VAN BERGSIG
2DE STR, KNYSNA WEG, MANN STR, AMANDEL STR, REGHOEK STR, BOTHA STR

KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op DONDERDAG 06 JUNIE 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 15H00 met die doel om veranderings aan elektriese hoofleidings te maak. Klante word gewaarsku om die installasie as lewendig te beskou vir die volle periode aangesien die toevoer enige tyd gedurende die periode aangeskakel mag word.

Sou omstandighede verhoed dat die werk gedoen kan word gedurende bogenoemde periode, sal die werk gedoen word op VRYDAG 07 JUNIE 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 15H00.

UPDATE: Pipe Burst in Heather Park

UPDATE: Pipe Burst in Heather Park
Issued by George Municipality, 2 June 2024 @17:35

Good news! The repair work on the pipe burst in Heather Park has been completed and the water supply has been restored. Thank you for your patience.

***

UPDATE: Pipe Burst in Heather Park
Issued by George Municipality, 2 June 2024 @16:55

The repair work on the pipe burst in Heather Park has been completed. The teams are currently scouring or washing the line, and the water supply will be restored shortly. The pipe burst, which occurred early this morning, had impacted the Heather Park area.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

***

UPDATE: Pipe Burst in Heather Park
Issued by George Municipality, 2 June 2024 @15:50

The estimated 5-hour repair time for the pipe burst on Witfontein Road, initially scheduled to be completed by 15:00, has been extended by an hour.

In the interim, a water truck has been dispatched to Witfontein Road and will be moved to the parking area at Heather Park Spar. A second truck is stationed at Candlewood Street in front of the Church.

The pipe burst occurred early this morning, impacting the Heather Park area. The water team is working hard to repair the pipe and restore the water supply as soon as possible.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

***

UPDATE: Pipe Burst in Heather Park
Issued by George Municipality, 2 June 2024 @10:00

The Water team is attending the pipe burst at Witforntein Road this morning affecting Heather Park. The estimated time of repair is 5 hours.

***

Pipel Burst in Heather Park

Issued by George Municipality, 02 June 2024 @08:45

A pipe burst occurred in Witfontein Road. The area of Heatherpark is affected. The estimated time of repair is to be confirmed.

Planned Interruption of the Electricity Supply: Portion of Modderrivier Line R404

THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF MODDERRIVIER LINE
R404.

NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on TUESDAY 04 JUNE 2024 FROM 08H00 TO 17H00 for the purpose of doing alterations to the electrical mains. Consumers are warned to treat the installation as being live for the full duration as the supply may be resumed at any time within the notified period.

Should circumstances prevent the work being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on THURSDAY 06 JUNE 2024 FROM 08H00 TO 17H00.

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BEPLANDE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER: GEDEELTE VAN MODDERRIVIER LYN
R404.

DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VAN MODDERRIVIER LYN
R404.

KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op DINSDAG 04 JUNIE 2024 VANAF 08H00 TOT 17H00 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 DONDERDAG 06 JUNIE 2024 VANAF 08H00 TOT 17H00.

Planned Interruption of the Electricity Supply: Portion of Syferfontein

THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF SYFERFONTEIN
OLYMPIC SCHOOL

NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on TUESDAY 04 JUNE 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00 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 from being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on WEDNESDAY 05 JUNE 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00.

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BEPLANDE ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER: GEDEELTE VAN SYFERFONTEIN

DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VAN SYFERFONTEIN
OLYMPIC SKOOL

KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op DINSDAG 04 JUNIE 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00 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 WOENSDAG 05 JUNIE 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00.

Emergency Interruption of the Electricity Supply: Portion of Rosemore

EMERGENCY INTERRUPTION OF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY: PORTION OF ROSEMORE

THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF ROSEMORE
BEER, WOLTEMADE, MILLER STREETS

NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on FRIDAY 31 MAY 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00 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.

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NOOD ONDERBREKING VAN DIE ELEKTRIESE TOEVOER: GEDEELTE VAN ROSEMORE

DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEDEELTE VAN ROSEMORE
BEER, WOLTEMADE, MILLER STRATE

KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op VRYDAG 31 MEI 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00 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.

Temporary Switch-Off of Thembalethu Streetlights


Issued by George Municipality, 28 May 2024 @18:55

Please note that Electrotechnical Services temporarily switched off Thembalethu streetlights. This measure was taken to help mitigate possible tripping in Thembalethu which may be caused by an overload due to planned work that has not been switched back.

Trimming of Historic “Slave Tree” for Safety Reasons

One of the largest and oldest trees in the Southern Hemisphere, known as the “slave tree,” approximately 212 years old, has been trimmed for safety reasons. This tree has been a sentry, overlooking the many visitors to the George Tourism Office, situated at 124 York Street, since its inception.

The Quercus Robur (English oak) tree, popularly known as the slave tree, is located at the George tourism office and was #29 on the list of Champion trees. However, it was de-listed after the tree was damaged by the elements in recent years.

Planted in 1811 with the establishment of George, this oak tree has been central to an urban legend and dubbed the ‘Old Slave Tree’ due to the thick chain and lock, firmly lodged into the base of the tree. However, in 1811, when slaves were emancipated, the tree was but a sapling, the roller for the lawn tennis court that once stood in front of the girls’ school, was chained to the tree, and the relic of that was left in the tree.

Over the years, the tree has deteriorated, and its falling dead branches have become a hazard to people and property. Consequently, the George Municipality undertook the pruning of these dead branches.

Discussions are ongoing to find a possible way to preserve what remains of this tree, which plays a significant role in the history of George.

Garden Route Dam Level – 28 May 2024

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL
Issued 28 May 2024, George Municipality

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 92,97 %
Rainfall for the previous days: 18.2 mm (Measured rainfall figures from 21 until 27 May 2024)

For water-saving tips please visit: http://tinyurl.com/3439h4n7
The cooperation of all municipal water users is essential and is greatly appreciated.

Urgent Notice for Public: Construction Work Notice: Garden Route Dam Suction Pipe Works

A planned construction of the Garden Route Dam Suction pipe works, initially scheduled to take place on weekdays, will also include tomorrow, Saturday, 25 May 2024 between 07:00 and 14:00.

SERVICE DISRUPTION:
Minor operational interruptions can be expected during the construction works. Advance notification of planned temporary disruptions and the effects thereof will be issued via social media.

TRAFFIC IMPACT:
No impact to traffic.

ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the site will be strictly controlled. No member of the public will be allowed access to the construction area, in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Mr Andre Scheepers – 044 801 9492 (Technical)
: Mr Alewijn Dippenaar – 082 457 5675 (Public Liaison Officer)

The George Municipality apologises for any inconvenience and appeals to the public to be patient and exercise caution throughout the construction period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Alien Invasive Plant Awareness Campaign: Sword Fern

Municipal Plant of the Month – Sword Fern: Nephrolepis exaltata / cordifolia. The sword fern typically grows in woodland areas. Fronds tend to be dull green in shaded areas and lighter green or yellowish-green when growing in a sunny position. Both fertile and sterile fronds are pinnate. Rhizomes are orange-brown to pale brown with linear scales having hair-like tips.

It spreads through the thousands of spores it produces. These spores are dispersed by wind and water.

Invasive status: Listed as Nemba Category 1b invasive weed, it is a habitat transformer and must be removed. It threatens indigenous species by aggressively invading swamps, forests, coastal bush, and roadsides. It forms dense stands, quickly displacing indigenous vegetation thus threatening biodiversity.

Control: When uprooting by hand ensure all parts of the plant have been removed. Poisons are available. Regular follow-up is essential.

References: www.invasives.org.za : www.sanbi.org

PUBLIC NOTICE: CYBERCRIME – Beware of Telephone Scams – Unblocking of Prepaid Meters

 

Freepic Image of Cybercrime

George Municipality kindly asks that all ratepayers, and Municipal clients be vigilant – we have been informed of telephonic calls and/or WhatsApp messages made to a ratepayer requesting the payment of a large sum of money into an unknown bank account to prevent the blocking of a prepaid meter. The municipality will not contact a ratepayer telephonically or via WhatsApp regarding the blocking of a meter and also not request a large payment into an unknown account to unblock a meter. Your prepaid meter will only be blocked if you have outstanding payments on your municipal account and despite us sending you several SMS (directly to your registered contact number as the municipal account holder), you make no effort to get in touch with us. Only then will your prepaid meter be blocked, and you will have to come in or phone in to resolve and discuss payment arrangements.

When making any payments to the municipal bank account please follow the procedures for sending proof of payment. Cybercriminals constantly challenge any measures put in place and clients are asked to be vigilant.

The public is urged to carefully check and confirm the municipality’s banking details as received on a municipal invoice. It remains your responsibility as the payer (ratepayer, citizen, business, client of the Municipality etc.) to ensure that the correct banking details are captured when making payments to George Municipality as the insurance companies and banks also do not accept any risk if a transaction approved and authorised by yourself ends up being to fraudulent sources.

BANK DETAILS FOR GEORGE MUNICIPALITY
Bank: First National Bank (FNB)
Account Name: George Municipality
Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account
Account Number: 62869623150
Branch Code: 210554
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
Use your GRG municipal account details as a reference and send proof of payment to payments@george.gov.za

For traffic fines only:
Bank: First National Bank (FNB)
Account Name: George Municipality
Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account
Account Number: 62869623168
Branch Code: 210554
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ
Use the traffic fine number as a reference.

Please follow these steps to update George Municipality as a beneficiary on your online banking:
1. Delete your current George Municipality beneficiary.
2. Create a new George Municipality beneficiary:
Search for George Municipality as the Institution name and click select,
Continue filling in the required information until the transaction is complete.
3. Should you require any assistance in updating George Municipality as a beneficiary, please feel free to contact our Finance offices on 044 801 9111.

Contact for Debt Control Assistance:
For help, phone the municipality’s debt control section at 044 801 9111 during office hours or via email creditcontrol@george.gov.za

CREDIT CONTROL AFTER-HOURS NUMBER: 072 501 1843 ONLY for EMERGENCY BLOCKED ELECTRICITY METERS during the following hours:
Monday to Friday from 16:30 to 20:00/ Saturday from 8:00 to 20:00 and Sunday from 8:00 to 14:00

Please note: a minimum payment is required before the meter will be unblocked after hours.