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Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

Municipality Mourns the Passing of Dedicated Employee, Ms Jakkie Armoed

In the photo: Ms Jakkie Armoed

It is with deep sadness that the George Municipality mourns the passing of Ms Jakkie Armoed, a valued member of our Parks and Recreation, Beaches section. Ms Armoed passed away on 19 September 2025 at the age of 58.

She began her service to the Municipality in 2006 as a casual worker at Herold’s Bay Beach and, in 2017, was permanently appointed as a general worker. For nearly two decades, Ms Armoed played an important role in maintaining Herold’s Bay Beach and Caravan Park, helping to ensure a welcoming and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike.

Her commitment and warm presence left a lasting impression not only on her colleagues but also on the Herold’s Bay community, where she was well respected and appreciated.

On behalf of the George Municipality, Municipal Manager Mr Godfrey Louw extended heartfelt condolences: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Ms Armoed. Her dedication and contribution to our community will be fondly remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”

Ms Armoed was laid to rest on Saturday, 27 September 2025.

Urgent Notice: Construction of 40ML Raw Water Balancing Dam continues on Heritage Day

A planned construction of the 40ML Raw Water Balancing Dam, initially scheduled to take place on weekdays, will take place tomorrow, 24 September 2025 (Public Holiday), 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:
Residents, road users and pedestrians need to exercise caution throughout the construction period. Please adhere to flag persons, temporary construction works and road signage.

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Vegetation Fires in Kingswood

🔥 George Municipality’s Fire Services is aware of vegetation fires in Kingswood.

👨‍🚒 Fire Services teams are on scene.
✅ No danger to life or property at this stage.
🌫️ Residents may notice smoke moving over nearby residential areas.

George Municipality will provide updates if the situation changes.

Ten More Families Receive Keys to Their New Homes at Metrogrounds

Mahlatse Phosa (Director of Planning and Development, George Municipality), Cllr Rita Gregory (Ward 20 Councillor), Cllr Jayzee Jantjies, Layla Malight (Beneficiary), Ald Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George), Cllr Jean Safers (MMC for Human Settlements) and Siminikiwe Mbekushe (Deputy Director of Human Settlements, George Municipality).

George Municipality is proud to announce that 10 more beneficiaries received their houses at the Metrogrounds Housing Project on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, reaffirming the Municipality’s commitment to addressing housing needs and restoring dignity to residents. With several handovers completed over the past weeks, the number of houses handed over at Metrogrounds now stands at 99.

Executive Mayor Alderman Jackie von Brandis congratulated the new homeowners, saying: “Each handover is not just about a house – it’s about a safe space where families can build a future together. We are grateful to see more long-awaited dreams finally realised.”

Joining the Mayor Von Brandis during the handover were the MMC for Human Settlements, Cllr Jean Safers, Ward Councillor for Ward 20 Rita Gregory, members of the Executive Mayoral Committee, councillors and officials in the Municipal Human Settlements Department.

The Metrogrounds Housing Project continues to bring hope to families, prioritising the elderly, persons with disabilities, farm workers, and long-term applicants from informal settlements and backyard dwellings, with more families set to benefit as construction phases advance.

Mahlatse Phosa (Director of Planning and Development, George Municipality), Siminikiwe Mbekushe (Deputy Director of Human Settlements, George Municipality), Kathrine Billy (Beneficiary), Ald Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George), Cllr Rita Gregory (Ward 20 Councillor) and Cllr Jean Safers (MMC for Human Settlements).

Invitation to the Webinar on International Trade with Namibia – 17 September 2025

We are pleased to invite you to an informative webinar on International Trade with Namibia, hosted by the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) in collaboration with the Namibian High Commission.

This session is designed to empower South African MSMEs with insights, opportunities, and practical guidance for engaging in trade with Namibia. As one of South Africa’s closest trading partners, Namibia offers strategic opportunities across multiple sectors, and this webinar will equip you with the knowledge to successfully access this growing market.

Webinar Details:
📅 Date: 17 September 2025
⏰ Time: 10:30 – 12:00
💻 Platform: MS Teams

👉 Click here to register for the session: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8199bb91-729c-4b2b-a3ae-2d29d893ca98@e2546b9d-33f9-4279-b6ed-e809f62fb336?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to explore business opportunities in Namibia and expand your market footprint. For more information, please contact Quinton Coetzee at 044 803 4900 or qcoetzee@sedfa.org.za

We look forward to your participation.

Urgent Public Notice: Ugrading of Eden Sewage Pump Station – Weekend Work /Public Holiday

Issued by George Municipality, 10 September 2025

Planned construction activities for the UPGRADING OF EDEN SEWAGE PUMPSTATION, initially scheduled to take place on weekdays between 07:00 and 17:00, have now been extended until 18:00.

Construction activities will also take place on the following weekends: Saturdays of 13th, 20th and 27th September 2025 between 07:00 and 13:00.

The construction activities extend from the Eden Sewage Pumpstation to Dikkop Str and Pikkewyn Str.

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

TRAFFIC IMPACT:
Residents, road users, and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution during the construction period. Please adhere to flag persons, temporary construction works and road signage.

ACCESS TO SITE:
Access to the construction site will be strictly controlled. In accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, no members of the public will be allowed in the construction area.

PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Mr Danie Brandt – 083 555 1290 (Engineer)
: Mr Kosie Smit – 044 801 9496 (George Municipality)
: Ms Shaldene Davids – 074 899 4420 (Community 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.

George Unveils Ilisolethu Logo, Symbol of Renewal

Ilisolethu Logo officially unveiled

George Municipality has officially unveiled the brand identity for the Ilisolethu Precinct, marking an exciting milestone in the Thembalethu Node Development Project.

“Ilisolethu” – meaning “Our Eye” in isiXhosa – symbolises vision, vigilance, and a col-lective outlook toward a brighter future. The logo, developed in consultation with Ward 13 Councillor Simphiwe Toto, his Ward Committee, and community stakeholders, captures the precinct’s role as a focal point for growth and opportunity in Thembalethu.

Executive Mayor of George Ald. Jackie von Brandis said the unveiling of the logo represents more than just a visual identity. “This is a symbol of hope and progress. Ilisolethu reflects our commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive space where the people of Thembalethu can thrive socially and economically. It is a project by the community, for the community, with long-lasting benefits for the entire George region.”

The precinct, situated along Nelson Mandela Boulevard and anchored around the Them-balethu CBD, has been identified as a priority investment area in the George Municipal Spa-tial Development Framework (MSDF). Backed by the National Treasury’s Neighbourhood Development Partnership Programme, the initiative is supported by a five-year Develop-ment Plan that includes 11 catalytic projects – from a business process outsourcing (BPO) village to new trading hubs, open spaces, transport clusters, and youth development facili-ties.

The logo launch is the first step in introducing Ilisolethu to investors, residents, and visi-tors. It will be rolled out across signage, marketing material, and community engagement platforms to reinforce the identity of the precinct and its vision of renewal.

Ilisolethu is set to become a landmark project – turning Thembalethu into a hub of oppor-tunity, resilience, and shared pride.

#Ilisolethu #Thembalethu #GeorgeMunicipality #CommunityGrowth #UrbanRenewal #Lo-calEconomy

 

George Municipality Celebrates Fourth Consecutive Clean Audit

In the photo: Front row: Ald. Iona Kritzinger, MMC for Financial & Strategic Services (left), and Ald. Jackie von Brandis, Executive Mayor of George (Right)
Back row: Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw (Left) and Chief Financial Officer Riaan du Plessis (Right).

George Municipality is proud to announce that it has received its fourth consecutive clean audit for the 2023/2024 financial year, an award presented by the Auditor-General of South Africa.

Executive Mayor Ald. Jackie von Brandis received the award on behalf of the Municipality, joined by the MMC for Financial & Strategic Services, Ald. Iona Kritzinger, Municipal Manager, Godfrey Louw, and Chief Financial Officer Riaan du Plessis.

“This clean audit demonstrates our commitment to transparent, accountable governance and sound financial management,” said Executive Mayor von Brandis. “It is a reflection of strong leadership, disciplined financial management, and a culture of compliance that underpins everything we do. George is striving to be South Africa’s best non-metro municipality — proving that good governance is truly a team effort.”

A clean audit is defined as an unqualified audit opinion with no material findings on performance reporting and no material findings on compliance matters.

MMC for Finance and Strategic Services, Ald. Kritzinger commended the Finance team and all municipal departments on this achievement. “This result is a testament to the dedication and teamwork across the organisation. It showcases the spirit of collaboration that continues to drive our Municipality forward.”

George Municipality remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of governance and financial accountability, ensuring that resources are managed responsibly in the service of all residents.
#CleanAudit #GoodGovernance #GeorgeMunicipality

Front row: Ald. Iona Kritzinger, MMC for Financial & Strategic Services (left), and Ald. Jackie von Brandis, Executive Mayor of George (Right)
Back row: Municipal Manager Godfrey Louw (Left) and Chief Financial Officer Riaan du Plessis (Right).

George Municipality Completes Installation of New Weighbridge at Transfer Station

In the photo from left: Nombuyiselo Majola (Manager of Projects, Solid Waste & Shared Services), Cllr Monique Simmers (MMC for Community Services: Refuse, Environment & Parks), Ald Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George), and Sivuyile Mtila (Senior Manager: Environmental Services).

George Municipality is pleased to announce the successful installation of a new weighbridge at the municipal transfer station. The Executive Mayor of George, Alderlady Jackie von Brandis, accompanied by Cllr Monique Simmers, MMC for Community Services (Refuse, Environment & Parks), and officials from the Community Services Department, officially launched the operation of the new weighbridge last week.

Executive Mayor von Brandis said the project represents a significant step forward in strengthening the municipality’s waste management systems. “The weighbridge will give us accurate, real-time information on the amount of waste generated and managed in George. With this data, the municipality can make smarter decisions, improve efficiency, and ensure that waste management keeps up with the needs of our growing city.”

Von Brandis added that the new system will not only benefit the municipality but also the public. “Residents and service providers can look forward to quicker turnaround times, improved recordkeeping, and greater accountability. This is about building a cleaner, more sustainable George while making sure that services are reliable and effective.”

According to Nombuyiselo Majola, Manager of Projects, Solid Waste & Shared Services in the Community Services Directorate, staff underwent induction and operational training in August 2025 to ensure they are fully equipped to operate the system efficiently and deliver quality service to all users of the facility. “The introduction of the weighbridge marks a significant improvement in how waste volumes are measured and managed at both the transfer station and the landfill site,” said Majola.

Explaining the benefits of the new weighbridge, Majola highlighted that the system will enable the Solid Waste Section to:
• Accurately record the weight of all incoming and outgoing waste
• Improve monitoring and reporting
• Identify opportunities for waste diversion and measure the impact of such efforts
• Provide greater transparency and accountability through reliable data
• Streamline service delivery for both municipal and commercial users by reducing waiting times, minimising paperwork, and improving operational flow

“Members of the public and service providers using the transfer station and landfill will soon benefit from quicker, more efficient service and better recordkeeping. This will ultimately contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment,” Majola added. “The new system will significantly improve our ability to plan and manage waste more effectively, while enhancing the overall user experience for all clients.” MMC Simmers extended appreciation to all stakeholders involved in the project. “We thank the community for its continued support and cooperation as we transition to this improved system.”

“As of 01 September 2025, all landfill site and Waste Transfer Station users will gain access via the newly installed weighbridge. The second gate will be permanently closed. Landfill site users are requested to be patient during this transition,” Sivuyile Mtila, Senior Manager for Environmental Services, announced.

For any enquiries, please contact Ms Nombuyiselo Majola, based at the Waste Transfer Station, on 044 803 9287/9297 or nmajola@george.gov.za

 

Acting Weighbridge Clerk, Elvis Nondala (right), demonstrates to Executive Mayor Jackie von Brandis (left) and MMC for Community Services, Cllr Monique Simmers (centre), how the new system will accurately record the weight of all incoming and outgoing waste.
From left: Elvis Nondala (Acting: Weighbridge Clerk)), Annie Johnson (Heavy Plant Operator), Nombuyiselo Majola (Manager of Projects, Solid Waste & Shared Services), Cllr Monique Simmers (MMC for Community Services: Refuse, Environment & Parks), Ald Jackie von Brandis (Executive Mayor of George), Yolanda Mali (Chief Clerk: Cleansing Department), Sivuyile Mtila (Senior Manager: Environmental Services).
On the right-hand side, Executive Mayor Jackie von Brandis and MMC for Community Services, Cllr Monique Simmers, observe a live demonstration of the new weighbridge monitoring system at the Gwaing Landfill. The session is guided by Acting Weighbridge Clerk, Elvis Nondala (left), with Nombuyiselo Majola, Manager of Projects: Solid Waste & Shared Services, looking on.

George Municipality Revitalises Thembalethu with Park Run and Recreation Route

Project 7, which comprises the Park Run and Trim Park Recreation Route progresses well

The George Municipality is pleased that the vision for the Ilisolethu Precinct in Thembalethu is steadily unfolding. Good progress can be observed on Project 7: The Recreation Route, which contributes to the enhancement of safety, connectivity, and recreation along Nelson Mandela Boulevard (NMB) and within the Thembalethu CBD.

Project 7 is one of eleven investment packages identified to drive social and economic development in Thembalethu through the Ilisolethu Precinct and comprises the Park Run and Trim Park Recreation Route. During the 2024/2025 financial year, sidewalk upgrades were completed along Ntaka, Schaap, and Bomvana Streets, as well as along the N2.

The Municipality has invested R 3 088 036.78 in upgrading sidewalks related to the recreation route. A further R450 000 will be spent on the final sidewalk section, and street furniture and lighting along the route will also be applied, valued at approximately R350 000.

Funding is sourced from the National Treasury through the Neighbourhood Development Partnerships Programme (NDPP), which supports township redevelopment by leveraging public investment to attract private and community contributions, improving both quality of life and economic opportunities.

“The NDPP is driven by the notion that public investment/funding can be used creatively to attract private sector and community investment to unlock the social and economic potential in targeted underserved neighbourhoods, generally townships. This will not only improve the quality of life of residents but also address the pertinent issues of economic performance and job creation,” said Delia Power, the Deputy Director for Development and Environmental Planning.

According to Executive Mayor Ald. Jackie von Brandis, these upgrades form part of a larger vision: “In future, we plan to establish a formal park run route along this corridor. It will be open to all community members and visitors, connecting existing and future recreational areas, and making Thembalethu a healthier, safer, and more connected community,” said Mayor von Brandis.

Furthermore, the Municipality is already encouraged to see residents using the completed portion of the route, running along the track envisioned for the park run. This is truly heart-warming and reaffirms that this is a much-needed recreational facility.

Through the programme, George Municipality has installed CCTV cameras at the Thembalethu Sports Field to enhance community safety and ensure the facility remains a safe and welcoming space for all residents and visitors.

Further upgrades are planned for the current financial year, including the development of a formal walkway linking Nelson Mandela Boulevard to Ngcakani Road. The walkway will feature landscaping, street furniture, and urban acupuncture interventions, improving accessibility and usability of the sports field.

“These combined interventions will not only encourage healthy lifestyles but also create safer, accessible, and attractive public spaces for residents and visitors,” added Mayor von Brandis.

For more information on the Ilisolethu Precinct, visit: www.george.gov.za/planning-development/ilisolethu-precinct or contact the George Municipality’s Directorate: Planning and Development – Henko Lourens at hlourens@george.gov.za.
#ilisolethuGeorge #LetsGrowThembalethu #CityOfOpportunities #SafeCommunities

CCTV Camera View
Schaap Street Sidewalk
N2 Link
Ntaka Street Sidewalk