The countdown to the Southern Cape Old Car Club’s flagship annual event is now down to mere days, and cars from all corners of the country have started their respective journeys to reach George in time for this weekend’s display of classic, vintage and even ultra-modern engines.

National media has been abuzz over the past weeks, not only reporting updates on the remarkable variety of cars, tractors, and bikes to be displayed at Eden Technical High School (formerly PW Botha College) this weekend, but also lauding the fact that 2022 hails the 25th anniversary of George Old Car Show. SCRIB BENZeum is the event’s premier partner for the second time running.

The Silver Jubilee gathering is made all the more special since last year’s lockdown regulations prevented its staging. So GOCS chairman Alewijn Dippenaar and his 35-strong team have ensured an even bigger show terrain this year, with different time slots allowing as many visitors as possible to enjoy the spectacle with all Covid protocols in place.

“About two thousand engines will grace our 6,500 square metre showgrounds this year. The three most important components are old cars, of course; then secondly modes of transports such as tractors, bikes, and military vehicles; and finally, the hot rods, built up, and modern models displayed by 15 different traders,” says Dippenaar.

The old car (pre-1975) display is so well supported by clubs and private owners from all over South Africa that a big percentage of the 930 entries date back to before 1939, with the 1913 Benz of Waldo and René Scribante of SCRIBS BENZeum fame being one of the jewels in this display’s crown.

Fans of these beautifully restored machines can look forward to famous marques representing most every letter of the alphabet, from Anglias to a Ford Zodiac Sport built in England back in ’64. The Borgward Club turned 60 last year and with no fanfare allowed at the time, chose to grace GOCS 2022 with the presence of 40 Borgwards to fête the occasion.

“An old car is not just an old car,” explains Dippenaar. “The restoration to its former glory of any classic car is an art, and it takes lots of research to ensure that original parts are procured, and all specs are exactly the same as when the car was originally manufactured.

“Collectors across the globe cooperate to promote the preservation of these motors, and the chance to display the result of years of labour doesn’t come around every day. Come show day, each model – be it a vintage lady, quirky tractor or the latest Gelandewagen – will be oiled and polished and looking as impressive as the day it rolled out of the factory,” he says.

Dippenaar and his SCOCC clan invite you to be moved by everything that George Old Car Show will have to offer on February 12 & 13. Book tickets through Computicket beforehand to avoid disappointment if sold out at the gate. Timeslots for Saturday (8-11am, 11am-2pm, 2-5pm) cost only R50 per slot and Sunday’s show times are 8am to 1pm.

Bring the family to enjoy displays and drive-bys by classic and modern fleets, an auction and refreshment tent, plus food and bric-a-brac stalls. You can also visit bit.ly/gocs2022 to view the show online.

Over the past weekend, the Municipality commenced with stringent throttling of water usage to ensure that our main water reservoirs do not run dry. Over a number of weeks we communicated  that daily usage was equal and often exceeded the maximum capacity of our two water works that are collectively able to treat 40 MegaLitres (“ML”)(40 million litres). In the days leading up to the past weekend, daily water crisis meetings were being held with whatsapp communications continuing until 22h00 every night. In the days leading up to the weekend our reserves were only 2-3 hours.

The drastic action taken over the weekend should come as a sharp reminder that water is life and that we constantly need to ensure that there is water security, that we need to treat water as a scarce and valuable commodity.

The requirement to upgrade George’s water treatment capacity has been on the capital expenditure radar for at least six years. The magnitude of undertaking a project of over R400 million is daunting as it will have to funded from own cash resources, any grants available and long-term debt. Annual repayments on (for example) a R100m loan would amount to approximately R16m over 10 years. This would imply an increase in water tariffs of 10% in addition to any inflation related increase to fund the repayment.

Municipalities therefore face the difficulties of maintaining affordable tariffs while also embarking on expansions of capacity to allow for economic growth while also incurring capital expenditure on equipment that may only be utilised five years into the future. Our long-term financial model advisors regularly provide advice on maximum debt levels, requirements of future cash flows to redeem loans, timing of incurring loans, etc.

In March 2021, a decision was made that one of our solutions was to approach National Treasury with our predicament. Their advice, guidance and support led us to launching the application for a Budget Facility for Infrastructure which resulted in George being the only successful application in the entire South African public sector to receive a grant, amounting to almost R1,2bn to undertake specific water infrastructure upgrades that we had described in our application.

It is ironic that our water usage has increased dramatically by 25% over the November-December period. We are now analysing what has taken place to cause this surge in usage relative to treatment since November. Normal logic would have dictated that the gap that existed pre-November would be filled over the next four years. It has now become clear that investment in technology and data collection will be urgently required to provide greater accuracy of the volumes of water being processed, flowing into the network and used by consumers.

Issued George Municipality, 1 February 2022 for immediate release

Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk announced in Ordinary Council yesterday, 31 January 2022 that George Municipality has received an unqualified audit opinion with no findings on the annual performance report for the year ended 30 June 2021. This is what is known as a “clean audit report”.

Ald Van Wyk offered his congratulations to the Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz, the Chief Financial Officer, Mr Riaan du Plessis, the Finance team, Internal Audit and all the Directorates who have put in a huge effort over the last few weeks, months and year to ensure that this milestone was achieved.

The Auditor-General commended the management for the audit outcome of the municipality which improved. “The outcome in the prior year was an unqualified audit opinion with findings on predetermined objectives which improved to unqualified opinion with no findings. This is mainly attributable to the efforts made by management to improve controls around indigent debtors and the overall improvement of the control environment at the municipality.”

Portfolio Councillor for Finance, Dirk Wessels congratulated the entire administration on the achievement. “This clean audit highlights to the public of George, that the Council and the municipality are working with care with taxpayer’s funds. George is one of the few financially stable municipalities in South Africa.”

Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz was thrilled with the outcome and lauded the immense team effort involved. “The improvement on the previous year’s audit outcome is a fitting reward for the Administration’s hard work and commitment to good governance, clean administration and ensuring that George Municipality is financially sustainable.”

This favourable audit result was a result of a huge team effort by the Municipality and was guided by the exceptional leadership of the acting Municipal Manager said CFO, Riaan Du Plessis. “The result confirms the efforts made by the municipality’s officials and management to address the findings raised by the Auditor-General in the prior year reports. The commitment and efforts of our staff are acknowledged and greatly appreciated.

Despite this excellent result, there remain further improvements that will be made to continue our drive to modernise the municipality’s administration and to ensure we optimise our ability to effectively deliver services. This result is encouraging and motivates the officials to continue in their efforts to establish George as the leading secondary city.”

28 January 2022

The newly appointed district health council for the Garden Route District was introduced by the Western Cape Minister of Health, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, on 24 January 2022.

‘Community involvement in health is a crucial part of a good health system functioning. It is also an integral part of Primary Health Care, that is why I am committed to meaningful engagement with communities and civil society. This is critical because it gives the district mayors and councillors representing local municipalities an opportunity to interrogate our Annual District Health Plan checking to see whether their local health priorities are considered,’ said Minister Mbombo.

Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Mayor, Ald. Memory Booysen, together with councillors reviewed the Annual District Health Plan to confirm whether their local priorities have been considered.

‘This collective approach to health in the Garden Route works because it raises the bar on health service standards,’ said Ald. Booysen. ‘Over the years, GRDM also extended its expert advice about municipal health services and will continue doing so in future.’

Councils represent their respective districts and ensure the coordination of health services with their respective municipalities. The appointment of the district health council is in accordance with the National Health Act, 2003 (Act 61 of 2003) which stipulates the establishment of district health councils.

A district health council consists of:

• a person appointed by the provincial minister to represent her
• a member of the relevant district council, who will also be the chair
• a member of the council of each local municipality nominated by the member of the relevant council
• not more than five other persons, appointed by the provincial minister, after consultation with the district council.

Members of the council are:

• Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Mayor, Ald. Memory Booysen
• Garden Route District Director: Mr Zee Brickles
• Cllr Melvin Roelfse (George)
• Cllr Betsi Van Noordwyk (Hessequa)
• Cllr Mavis Busakhwe (Bitou)
• Cllr Anna Janse van Rensburg (Mossel Bay)
• Cllr Joey R Canary (Oudtshoorn)
• Ms Rita Kayster (District Council on Aids and TB)
• Knysna (outstanding)
• Kannaland (outstanding)

Members of the public are requested to make use of the channels available to them, such as the district health council, to voice any matters that might need attention.

Caption:

From left: Ms Rita Kayster ( District Council on Aids and TB), Cllr Melvin Roelfse (George), Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Mayor, Ald. Memory Booysen, Cllr Betsi Van Noordwyk (Hessequa)

, Western Cape Provincial Health Minister Nomafrench Mbombo, Cllr Mavis Busakhwe (Bitou), Cllr Ruiters representing Mossel Bay in the absence of cllr Janse van Rensburg, Mr Zee Brickles(district director: Garden Route and Central Karoo) and Simo Sithandathu(Provincial Council on Aids and TB Civil Society representative).

END

Nadia Ferreira

Principal Communications Officer

Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts

Western Cape Government Health

Issued George Municipality, 26 JANUARY 2022

The Executive Mayor of George, Leon van Wyk wishes to extend his heartfelt condolences to the family of a 4-year-old toddler who was electrocuted by an energised fence in Thembalethu over the past weekend, in an incident that is attached to an ‘illegal connection’ at her home on Saturday afternoon. Simultaneously, Mayor van Wyk issued a stern warning to the citizens of George to refrain from the installation of illegal connections as it poses a fatal danger to society.

Ophayo Tukushe sadly lost his life on Saturday afternoon, 22 January 2022 after she got electrocuted while playing at her Thembalethu home. The information available at this stage indicates that Ophayo touched an energised fence that ran past her home to nearby informal settlements.

“I am deeply saddened by this tragedy; words cannot describe how sad I am for the loss of this toddler. Her future has been stolen from her, I cannot imagine the pain Ophayo’s parents and loved ones must be undergoing. May the family of Ophayo be comforted during this very difficult time,” said Mayor van Wyk.

The latest information relating to the incident indicates that on the next day, (Sunday, 23 January 2022), Nolundi Tukushe the grieving mother of late Ophayo was also electrocuted by the same energised fence that ran past her property while hanging washing. She, fortunately, survived the incident.

The Municipal Electro-Technical Services Department indicated that they were only informed about the two incidents in the aftermath on Sunday morning. The Municipal electro-technical department confirms that the energised fence from which the child got electrocuted was an illegal connection and which was safely removed.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has subsequently launched an inquiry investigation to ascertain circumstances surrounding the death of Ophayo and his mother’s incident. 

“We cannot overemphasize the dangers attached to illegal connections. Any kind of electricity ‘tapping’, no matter how small or innocent-looking, is illegal and dangerous and can cause much more trouble than you know,” Mayor van Wyk said.

“As it was with this incident, the sad part is that children are more likely to be in danger; they can easily be killed, due to their lower weight, because of illegal connections not having earth leakage protection. We ask that law-abiding citizens take it upon themselves to report illegal connection activities to SAPS as soon as they see them taking place,” van Wyk added.

To educate the communities and increase community safety, the Electro-Technical Department conducts regular safety operations targeted at removing illegal connections. The latest operation in this specific area was done on Thursday, 20 January 2022.

George Municipality will continue to act decisively in such matters, and it is well-known that the practice of illegal connection puts the perpetrator in danger of electrocution, risking injury and death to themselves as well as the rest of the community. These connections lie across pathways and walkways where anyone passing can easily be electrocuted.

An electricity connection is considered illegal when it is connected to the George Municipal network without the organisation’s permission. Wires are connected to a mini-substation or overhead pole.  The forms of electricity theft include illegal connections, illegal electrification schemes and meter tampering and bypassing. These illegal electrical thefts are mostly in areas where illegal informal structures are built.

Where people have connected themselves illegally, George Municipality will continue to actively find the perpetrators and lay criminal charges against them. In terms of the Criminal Procedures Act, interference with and the damage to Municipal property could be regarded as sabotage and should someone be found guilty of such an offence, a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years can follow.

Illegal connections should be reported to 044 803 9222 or 044 801 9222 or after hours on 044 801 6300.

The George Municipality offers a reward for information that leads to the successful conviction of electrical theft and /vandalism in a court of law. The witness will have to go on record to the authorities, giving his/her name and contact details to testify, but his/her identity will be protected. Report to 0860 044 044

Ends.

Issued George Municipality, 25 January 2022, for immediate release

Water Restrictions are necessary to protect our water resources

The George Municipal Section 80 Civil Engineering Services Committee today, 25 January 2022 approved the implementation of Water Restrictions similar to those found in paragraph 2B of the George Municipal Drought Management Policy.

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Cllr Browen Johnson noted that an emergency as contemplated in Section 2(4)(b) of the Water Services By-law to limit or restrict the use of water currently exists in George as the water treatment works cannot meet the current potable water demand and cannot ensure adequate reservoir storage volumes to meet the emergency storage volumes required.

Due to the flood disaster event that occurred on 22 November 2021, the National Head of the Disaster Management Centre declared a national disaster of this event on 19 January 2022. Severe damage to our infrastructure on 22 November and again 06 December 2021 has meant that our main storage reservoirs could never recover their storage capacity adequately to act as a backup for the high season demand. This coupled with the warm weather, general growth and the recent reopening of businesses and industries means that the average daily demand is hovering at 38-39 Megalitres (Ml) per day, with peak days reaching even 40Ml/day. The production capacity of the Old and New Water Treatment Works is a combined volume of 38Ml per day. 

Water restrictions will therefore be implemented in the George Water Distribution and Reticulation network, excluding Uniondale and Haarlem, with immediate effect until further notice.

The right of access to basic water supply and sanitation is a basic right for all communities and it is the responsibility of the George Municipality as the Water Services Institution to take reasonable measures to ensure these rights.

The immediate measures to be adhered to are as follows:

1. The mechanical or automatic irrigation/watering devices or sprinkler systems for gardens is prohibited.
2. Gardens may be watered with a handheld hose from 01 September to 30 May during the following period only, i.e.  between 19:00 to 21:00

Gardens may be watered with a handheld hose from 01 June to 31 August during the following period only, i.e.  between 17:00 to 19:00:

Mondays and Thursdays for even-numbered households ONLY

Tuesdays and Fridays for uneven numbered households ONLY.

3. The irrigation or watering of all sports fields is prohibited.  Exemption from restrictions in the following instances only: golf course greens, bowling greens, and cricket pitches which may only be watered between 19:00 and 21:00.

4. The washing of vehicles with a garden hose is prohibited, except by a commercial enterprise whose business it is to wash cars.

5. The cleaning of ANY area by mechanical means or hosepipe using water is prohibited; The use of a bucket is however permitted.

6. The filling of swimming pools is prohibited.
7. Where own water from a borehole or reservoir is used, the appropriate notice shall be displayed on the premises, e.g. “OWN WATER”.

Contraventions of the Water Restrictions can be reported on 0800 424477 and will be followed up by George Municipal Law Enforcement.

Any person who contravenes these restrictions is guilty of an offence and is, upon conviction, liable to a fine as published in the annual tariffs list, or six months imprisonment.

In terms of Section 5 of the By-law, any person may apply in writing for the exemption from the provision of any notice published in terms of the By-law, and the Council may grant an exemption and impose conditions in respect of such an application.  The Policy grants permission to the Directorate Civil Engineering Services to approve applications for exemptions.

Application forms for an exemption can be obtained from the office of the Directorate: Civil Engineering Services, Old Town Hall, on the corner of Market and York Streets. Alternatively, applicants can contact Ms G van Niekerk on 044 – 801 9354 / gvanniekerk@george.gov.za to request that a copy of the application form be emailed to them. The Directorate Civil Engineering Services will consider all applications. A written exemption shall be provided where approved.

Report all water leaks to our Civil Engineering Department on 044 801 9262/66  to email an application form.

Issued George Municipality, 20 January 2022

George Municipality has over the past year, following extensive pipe bursts throughout the year, as well as the infrastructure damage caused by 22 November and 06 December 2021 floods, reported to the public that the use of drinking water per day in George is currently higher than the amount of water that is being purified by our water treatment works. During last year the Annual Average Daily Demand for drinking water was 32 Ml per day and the current water treatment works output per day is 38Ml This is produced daily by the Old Water Treatment Works and the New Water Treatment Works which are both operating optimally.

WHY ARE WE RUNNING SHORT OF DRINKING WATER
There are several other factors involved, which include George being a city that offers an attractive lifestyle to families wishing to leave other provinces. We have just come through a very successful festive season with a welcome influx of visitors and our accommodation establishments remain well booked at present. The weather has improved considerably and the warmer weather means that our average daily demand is hovering at 38-39 Megalitres (Ml) per day, with peak days reaching even 40Ml/day.

Due to the disaster damage to infrastructure, the main storage reservoirs could never recover their storage capacity adequately to act as a backup for the high season demand, and the severely reduced storage available is continually being depleted further to make up the deficit between the peak season demand and the production capacity of the Old and New WTW that can produce a combined volume of 38Ml per day. This means that the municipality is meeting the daily requirement but has reached critically low storage volume in the main reservoirs that supplement the daily shortfall.

Replenishing the storage capacity in the reservoirs is of paramount importance as this acts as emergency storage in the event of major pipe bursts, unplanned outages at the WTW, or any other major event that impacts the potable water system. Currently, the volumes in the main storage reservoirs cannot provide this security of supply.

FORWARD PLANNING
Forward planning is in place and the remedial and capacity (20Ml) extension projects funded by the BFI grant will extend the water treatment capacity for George and will be implemented in two phases over three years. The tender for the 20Ml Water Treatment Works has closed and construction of this plant should start within the next few months. The full construction period will however stretch over several years.

The overall funding required to ensure potable water security in the George system is R1.197 billion and the funding will be provided over the next forty (40) months for the full phases of the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works projects. The first allocation of R81.345 million has been approved and was included in the 2021/22 Adjustments Budget tabled in November 2021. There are currently 8 sub-components in various stages of procurement and implementation.

George Municipality has applied for R238m disaster funding for remedial work required to infrastructure damaged during the floods of November/December 2021. This includes remedial work to various pipelines that were damaged and remain vulnerable. To carry out these repairs certain bulk pipelines will need to be “shut off”, but this can only be carried out if there is the security of emergency supplies and the volume in the main reservoirs is stable.

BUT THE GARDEN ROUTE DAM IS FULL?
Residents should note that although the GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL remains at 100%, this is RAW WATER storage and not POTABLE or DRINKING WATER supply. The raw water needs to be treated at the George Old and New Water Treatment Facilities before it goes to the main potable water storage reservoirs for distribution into the reticulation system. The current water demand is higher than the production rate at these facilities.

WHAT IS THE MUNICIPALITY DOING TO SAVE WATER RIGHT NOW?
To ensure our residents have continuous access to drinking water the municipality is embarking on a Water Saving Programme. We are asking all residents, businesses (including construction companies), schools, sports facilities to please carefully review their use of drinking water and to make a conscious decision to cut back on wastage, and the unnecessary use of drinking water.

The municipality is aware that such a program will require extensive awareness as well as a review of our municipal usage.
With immediate effect, the following is being put in place at all municipal sites:

• All municipal sports fields and facilities will immediately stop watering fields/gardens.
• Hippo Water Savers for toilet cisterns to reduce the volume of water used per flush will be installed, and push taps will replace manual free-flow taps for all bathroom facilities. The process to procure and install these is underway with implementation as soon as possible.

The Hippo Water Saver saves up to 3 litres of water every time a toilet is flushed and is ideal for older toilets. Made from durable, heavy-gauge polyethylene, the Hippo bag opens in a box shape underneath the large cistern float. When the toilet is flushed, the water confined within the Hippo is the volume saved. Push taps are more water-saving because they have a controlled water stream that limits water use. Push taps are a cost-effective solution to reduce water consumption and also improve and maintain hygiene.
• Our water leak teams have been supplemented with additional staff and are working on resolving Indigent water leakages as quickly as is possible. Walkthrough inspections are being conducted in certain areas of George that are known for not reporting water leaks and infrastructure is being checked for any unreported leakages.
• Screening of illegal car washes will be undertaken and legal car washes will be asked to continue using water sparingly. Many of these already recycle water as a standard practice.
• High water users will be contacted by our Finance department to raise awareness of excess consumption and ensure that no leaks are causing the excess usage.
• Burst pipes and other water-related matters are being dealt with to minimize water loss.
• The municipality has asked all of their building and construction service providers, as well as those working privately, to either make use of RAW WATER for construction purposes which can be obtained at the water treatment plant at the Denneoord new water treatment plant OR where applicable to use TREATED EFFLUENT WATER which can be obtained at the Gwaiing wastewater treatment plant. This is common practice during periods of drought or potable water supply constraints.

WHAT CAN THE PUBLIC DO TO SAVE DRINKING WATER?
George Municipality appeals to the residents of George to USE WATER SPARINGLY and ONLY FOR BASIC NECESSITIES in particular during peak times.
Peak times are between 07h00 – 09h00 in the morning, 12h00 to 14h00, and 17h00 to 20h00.

• Please do not water your garden with a hosepipe. Use rainwater tanks where available. Only water when it is cool- to reduce evaporation and wastage.
• Don’t wash your car using a hosepipe. Use a water bucket instead
• Don’t fill your swimming pool or hose down your driveway with drinking water.
• Sports facilities and schools are asked to please not irrigate fields unless using stored rainwater.
• Please only use drinking water for necessities – close taps properly, fix leaks at home – this will save you money each month!
• MOST IMPORTANTLY PLEASE Report water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, OR via our formal channels of gmun@george.gov.za or George Municipal APP. Each fault must be correctly logged and receive a reference number to save time in assigning repair teams.

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY DAM WATER UPDATE: 19 JANUARY 2022
Dam level: 100% (unchanged)
Estimated level at new dam wall height: 97%
Rainfall since 12 January 2022: 2mm

Issued George Municipality, 18 JANUARY 2022

 The George Municipality has recently bolstered its Fire Brigade with a few new appointments as of 1 January 2022. Leading the pack is, Santa Sternsdorf, who is not new to George, but has moved up the ranks from platoon commander to Station Commander Training, at the George Fire Station.

Affectionately known as the “lady driving the big trucks”, as she was seen by many driving the Fire and Rescue trucks, Sternsdorf will now be missed being seen on the trucks since her new role will focus on training within the George Fire and Rescue Department which resorts in the Protection Services Directorate.

Armed with 21 years of experience in the field of firefighting, Santa is ready to impart her wealth of knowledge and expertise to up and coming firefighters, in her new role of heading the training component of the Fire and Rescue Department. She is a Graduate Member of International Fire Engineers (IFE) and a qualified Instructor, Assessor, Moderator, and Intermediate Live Support Paramedic.

Santa started her career in the Helderberg Fire Department, which later became the City of Cape Town Fire Department.  She later left the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Training Academy to move to Knysna, and thereafter joined the George Fire Department on 1 December 2017 as a platoon commander.

Apart from her being an ardent firefighter and a rescuer, Santa has a family to manage; she married and has a 10-year-old daughter.

George Municipality welcomes Seven junior firefighters

The George Municipality wishes to congratulate and welcome the seven newly appointed junior firefighters that will serve in the Fire and Rescue Service to the Wilderness Fire Station. The new recruits started their duties on 1 January 2022, and are now rotating between George, Thembalethu and Wilderness to get training and exposure with senior staff. They are:

• Richard Brentley Bruiners
• Edwin Thabiso Keketsi
• Heinrich Leonardo Pienaar
• Renaldo Frederick Le Grange
• Garth Jesmar Claassen
• Kenneth  Marquin  Johnson and
• Jeandre Bernardo

ENDS.

CAPTION:

PHOTO1:

Back row from left: Kenneth Johnson, Jeandre Bernardo, Richard Bruiders, Thabiso Keketsi  (all junior firefighters and Santa Sternsdorf (new Station Commander Training)

Front row form Left: Hein Pienaar, Garth Claassen and Frederick Le Grange.

PHOTO 2:

Back row from left: Santa Sternsdorf (Station Commander Training) and the following junior firefighters; Kenneth Johnson, Jeandre Bernardo, Richard Bruiders, Thabiso Keketsi.

Front row form Left: Hein Pienaar, Garth Claassen and Frederick Le Grange (all junior firefighters)

Issued on behalf of Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk by George Municipal Communications Department

As Executive Mayor of George Municipality, I have today written to both NERSA and the CEO of Eskom on behalf of the citizens of George to appeal to them not to proceed with proposed 20,5% increase in Eskom tariffs.

It is simply unfair, unjustified and unaffordable for citizens to continue to be burdened by increases in excess of the inflation rate. Many citizens are struggling to make ends meet. The pandemic and the national lockdown has led to the loss of many jobs.

Every time that Eskom increases its prices above the inflation rate, it places further pressure on municipalities who are required to deliver a basket of essential services, viz water, sewerage, refuse, electricity, roads and stormwater, etc to citizens. The effect of electricity increases above the inflation rate then requires municipalities to compensate by reducing increases on the other services in an effort to make the overall basket of services more affordable to our consumers. This results in less money being available to provide for adequate maintenance on water, sewerage, roads and other infrastructure. As a result many more municipalities are struggling to remain financially viable.

George has never defaulted on an Eskom account and those municipalities who regularly pay, carry the burden of non-paying municipalities. Eskom’s inability to collect from defaulting municipalities is now giving rise to these massive increases. Possibly Eskom should be providing an incentive to those municipalities who regularly pay their accounts.

While I am highly appreciative of the efforts of the Eskom CEO to improve efficiencies, reduce debt, etc in the massive turnaround at Eskom, there is an urgent need to reduce the bloated salary bill, stop the mismanagement, inflated tenders, corruption, etc and recover the outstanding debt not being paid by defaulters.

It is therefore an extreme injustice that ordinary citizens of George — and, indeed, residents of every municipality in the country — should be forced to bear the cost of Eskom’s inability to fix its own problems. The increase should be no higher than the inflation rate of 5,5%.

Ends.

George is experiencing a bumper festive season with our tourism division recording 630 enquiries through our offices based in George, Wilderness, and Tourism. 41% of enquiries were related to ‘things to do’ and tourism information, 35% were accommodation related and 24% were general enquiries. Occupation figures in Quarter 4 2021 were on a steep upward trend already and the preliminary December feedback is that the private sector has experienced a moderately good festive season. Forward bookings are also showing that accommodation establishments will enjoy a longer season than 2020.

EVENTS
Despite the Covid-19 Regulations, several events stood out with a highlight being the expanded George Tens festival, heralded by former coach Springbok Heyneke Meyer.  The event was sold out at Covid-19 restriction capacities, with 2,000 spectators per day over 4 days, and consisted of an impressive 58 rugby ‘tens’ teams, 22 golfing 4-balls, 12 netball teams, and 10 lawn bowls teams per program day.  George Municipality also partnered with the Pacaltsdorp Night Race, featuring a 10km and 5km race.

PAVEMENT PERMITS
In a bid to boost the local economy, the Municipality also initiated the concept of a ‘pavement permit’ to assist restaurants in terms of capacity constraints with the implementation of social distancing measures due to COVID-19. The ‘pavement permit’ would provide restaurants with additional floor space to place their tables. The initiative was very well-received by local businesses and the Planning Directorate is looking to expand on such ideas in the future.

SAFE SEASON
As far back as October last year, George Municipality announced that for the 2021 Festive Season, safety and service delivery would be the key focuses for the municipal administration. The Festive Season Monitoring Committee met daily from 1 December and will hold its final meeting this week Friday. A debriefing will be held before the end of January 2022 to review and begin planning for the 2022 Festive Season.

All of the Municipal departments were represented as role players included SAPS, SanParks, NSRI, Lifeguard representatives. Problems that were raised were dealt with efficiently and immediately and these included lifesavers, water quality, parking issues, safety at beaches, alcohol, fireworks, events as well as standard municipal service delivery which continued unabated through the festive season in terms of refuse collection, water and electricity, building control, financial services, etc.

Feedback received to date from businesses, residents, and visitors is that this is one of the best seasons they have experienced overall with specific reference to the management of the beaches on busy days.  Dr Michele Gratz thanked the municipal teams as well as all of the roleplayers for the huge effort put into making it a successful season. “This was a big team effort which George Municipality intends building on for future seasons.”

STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION
The Festive Season Monitoring Committee and operations over the festive season were undertaken in collaboration with SANParks and NSRI Wilderness.

SANparks Section Ranger: Wilderness National Park Jonathan Britten noted that this peak summer holiday season in Wilderness was very busy and a much need economic boost for local businesses. “The Wilderness National Park is inherently interwoven with the town and suburbs of Wilderness and the scenic beauty is big drawcard for tourism but if the area is not safe and public services not effective this would impact negatively on the environment and local economy.

“SANParks is grateful that the George Municipality led an integrated and multi stakeholder collaborative team approach to ensure that all visitors and residents of Wilderness and the greater George had a positive and safe experience during this very busy time. It was delightful to see so many happy holiday makers enjoying our beaches, trails and waterbodies knowing that we had a very dedicated team on the beat daily ensuring everyone’s safety and that the beaches and facilities were always clean. Much success lay in the Festive Season Monitoring Committee meeting daily, where required plans and deployments were adjusted as needed and this was not just all talk, it was common to see the various Municipal Directors, Senior Managers and the Municipal Manager on the ground engaging with the public and overseeing implementations of plans. Impactful leadership was the order of the day,” said Britten.

“This holiday season proved the value of partnerships, dedication and teamwork working towards a common goal. The partnerships and operational effectiveness between the George Municipality, SANParks, NSRI, SAPS, Forensic Pathology Services, Wilderness Rate Payers and Residents Association is an asset for Wilderness.”

NSRI Wilderness, Michael Vonk recognized that strong leadership, collaboration between all stakeholders, and detailed planning were critical factors in this year’s successful festive season. “The beaches have been exceptionally busy, especially since New Year’s Day and everyone has gone above and beyond, working very long hours to ensure the public have been able to safely enjoy our magnificent beaches.”  Vonk highlighted the role law enforcement, SAPS, and other security service has played in preventing the consumption of alcohol on the beaches, along with the prevention activities by lifeguards as contributing to the first season with no drowning incidents on the beach in many years.

EMERGENCY SERVICES
Lifeguards were deployed at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, and Wilderness Salinas on a full-time daily basis from 7 – 7 and will remain in place until 31 January 2022. A total of 20 saves and 40 help outs were performed by these well-trained youngsters up to and including 10 January. 70 First Aid assists were handled with 4 cases requiring ambulance transportation.

Emergency Services were kept busy and attended to 9 formal structure fires and 13 informal structure fires. Regrettably, one life was lost in an informal structure fire. Fire officials also attended to 38 motor vehicle accidents with a total of 51 patients treated. The worst accident they deal with occurred in early December with the loss of 3 young lives on N2. Recovery services worked for 8 hours on 31 December to retrieve a vehicle that went over the barrier at Wilderness, Dolphin Point Lookout, and landed on the railway line. The driver miraculously escaped with minor injuries.

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT / PARKING / POINT DUTY
George Traffic Services actively patrolled all municipal areas in collaboration with Western Cape Provincial Traffic including participating in regular roadblocks. Traffic flow was managed as best possible in particular at congested intersections such as the Garden Route Mall, the exit ramp to Mossel Bay on Knysna Road, and the airport intersection.

Temporary road signs were made up and installed together with traffic cones to ensure compliance in terms of parking, to prevent illegal parking, direct vehicles to parking areas as well as ease the flow of traffic making use of the Drop and Go areas successfully implemented in Victoria Bay, Herolds Bay, and Wilderness.

An additional 30 pointsmen/women assisted at busy traffic intersections and shopping malls, at beaches to close off roads, and with Drop and Go areas. Together with our traffic wardens they managed parking at the beaches to avoid obstruction, assisted on the N2 to ensure safe access for beachgoers, and generally addressed congestion throughout the CBD when needed. Teething problems were experienced but the pointsmen quickly became a huge asset to the municipality and will be considered again for the next festive season. Traffic wardens were placed with the Point duty officers at all beaches to mentor and upskill them.

Special arrangements have been made for any motorists who were directed through a red traffic light by our pointsmen and noted the cameras flashing. You should not receive the fine, but should a few slip through representations can be made to smagxwalisa@george.gov.za

The Vehicle Testing Station offered 3 days in December and 3 in early January where a free 10 Point check could be done on your vehicle before traveling. This was a new service and 23 motorists took advantage of it.

BLUE FLAG BEACHES AND CLEANSING
Wilderness, Salinas remains a full Blue Flag beach until 31 January 2022, and Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay obtained Pilot Blue Flag status. Compliance in terms of the international standards, included high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety and lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities.

FlFlooding and heavy rainfall in early December pushed tons of debris down the rivers which fouled up the beaches. Our cleaning teams together with Working on Fire crews, worked non-stop for days to clear Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Ballot’s Bay, Wilderness beach from Leentjiesklip to Salina’s beach, Gwaiing Beach, and Kaaimans mouth. Over 1300 black bags of refuse and debris were collected in a short space of time and at one point a grader was brought in to assist with the volume of debris that needed to be removed.

Our Beach cleaning teams worked until 23h00 on many nights and started at 02h00 on New Year’s Day to ensure that the beaches were clean for the first beachgoers the next morning. The cleaning teams also did sterling work in keeping the beach ablution facilities in excellent condition despite heavy usage. Our CBD cleansing teams kept the town clean and neat for visitors.

BEACH MONITORS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
George Municipality was adamant that no alcohol would be allowed on our beaches and confiscated bottles to the value of R20156. Our law enforcement officials estimate that they showed away alcohol to an estimated value of R52 000 (ie beachgoers agreed to either dispose of themselves and/or return items to their vehicle).  Neighborhood Watches, Community Police Forums as well as the SAPS worked closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety. The confiscated alcohol will be handed over to SAPS to store and ultimately dispose of.

FIREWORKS
George Municipality implemented a complete ban on the setting off of fireworks, fire-crackers, flares, paper lanterns, and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area. Over 169 visits were undertaken to retail outlets and an estimated R25 400 worth of fireworks were confiscated (retail value) with 25 fines issued totaling R59 000.

MUNICIPAL OFFICES REMAINED OPEN  – SERVICE DELIVERY ONGOING
In previous year’s the municipal buildings have been closed between Christmas and New Year with only minimal staff on standby. This year the buildings were only closed on Public Holidays and our directorates faced huge challenges with major pipe bursts occurring on 29 December and several extended power outages taxing all of our officials to the limit. However, amid the crisis and festive season chaos, service delivery continued unabated. Our Planning division processed 158 plans in-season with 86 approved, which was 80 residential, 6 non-residential. 16 applications (14 residential and 2 non-residential) remain in circulation. The remaining 56 (52 residential and 4 non-residential) were not approved due to either not complying and/or additional information being required. Furthermore, a total of 55 (54 residential and 1 non-residential) Certificates of Occupancy were issued.

The Building Control division was equally busy with building control contraventions and complaints that were able to be addressed expeditiously over the festive season. A total of 54 residential occupation certificates and 1 non-residential were issued. 19 complaints were received and addressed.

Prior to the December-January holidays, the George Administration made a commitment to participate in the Blue Flag rating status for our beaches. Participation in this project requires a dedicated approach for the rigorous testing of sea water, cleanliness of beaches and ablutions, keeping dogs off beaches, presence of lifeguards and a host of other requirements. Blue Flag status is internationally recognised by the tourism industry.

This process also triggered the decision for George to offer our visiting holiday-makers a memorable and quality holiday experience during their stay. This strategy was decided upon on the presumption that South Africans wanted to come and enjoy George over 2021/22. A seasonal monitoring committee of 20-30 members representing all Directorates was established that met every weekday at 08h00 from 1 December. Progressively, greater teamwork and work-processes began to emerge with NSRI, Sanparks and SAPS all playing their roles. Cllr Marlene Barnardt volunteered to hold the daily councillor watching brief and I attended occasionally.

Dr Gratz chaired these meetings as the various niggles were ironed out, from the sale of illegal fireworks to those of our citizens who insisted on trying to smuggle liquor onto beaches, those leaving their litter behind on the beaches, dog owners insisting on walking their dogs on Blue Flag beaches and campers ignoring bylaws (fully explained to them prior to the season) forbidding overnight camping on beaches.

Unfortunately, we also have property developers who have tried to operate businesses without the necessary planning and building control permissions. Our law enforcement staff were also called to deal with the theft of electrical cables and vandalism of equipment representing a considerable cost to George, with local scrap dealers no doubt facilitating these illegal transactions.

We believe the holiday season has boosted for our local economy with retail, tourism, accommodation and restaurant establishments all having above normal seasons. Many job opportunities would have resulted from this surge in business. We trust that the season will extend to late in January with coastal schools only returning to class on the 19^th. We are very encouraged with the enthusiasm of the many temporary and permanent employees who joined hands in this team effort to showcase George.

It is worth remembering that George also had to tackle some huge challenges as our infrastructure took strain during the floods of 22 November following by further rain storms a few weeks later and water pipeline breakages. At present we are consuming virtually all the water that we are able to treat on a daily basis (due to the bumper holiday season). This means that at present we are unable to replenish our reservoirs to the levels that we consider to be safe. However, we continue to manage this process.

George Municipality Finance Directorate welcomed Gerard Goliath as the new Deputy Director: Expenditure and SCM on 3 January 2022. Goliath is a BCOM Accounting graduate from Nelson Mandela University and brings with him vast experience in his field. He has been working in municipalities since 2003 in various positions starting as a financial management intern up to Director’s level. Goliath says he views the highlights of his career as the achievement of two clean audits at Bergrivier Municipality in 2017 and 2018. Goliath is married with 3 children. Their eldest son is studying Civil Engineering in Port Elizabeth and the two younger children will be starting schooling in George this year.

“As a family, we are looking forward to making the Garden Route our new home and exploring what the region has to offer,” Goliath said. He added that he is looking forward to working at George Municipality and contributing to a culture of clean administration. “The warm welcome from the colleagues at George Municipality has been heartening,” he said.

George Municipality is proud to announce that Edward Ganza was appointed as Deputy Director: Administration in the Corporate Services Directorate on 1 December 2021. Ganza has a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management (NQF 8) from the Mancosa Private University and a Bachelor of Administration degree from Nelson Mandela University. He has been working in municipalities since 1998 in various positions and brings with him extensive municipal experience. Ganza is fluent in three languages, Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa. He is residing in George currently and his family will join him at a later stage. “I am very happy to be part of the George municipal family”, said Ganza.

George Municipality welcomes Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe who joins our communications team within the office of the Municipal Manager as Senior Communications and IGR officer. Ntobeko comes to us from Oudtshoorn Municipality with over 12 years of local government communication and spokesperson experience.

He is 43 years of age and hails from Klipplaat, Eastern Cape. He moved to Oudtshoorn to continue his high school career and matriculated at Imizamo Yethu High School in George. He completed a Diploma in Journalism and was employed with SAPS Western Cape media center, George, as a media liaison official/spokesperson from 2006 to 2008. He also freelanced for the Oudtshoorn Courant from 2000 to 2001.

Ntobeko holds a diploma in Public Relations Management from Unisa. He has completed his NQF level 7 programme in Communication Science and is now studying towards BA Hons: Integrated Organisational Communication. He is registered with the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA), as a Chartered Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP). PRISA is a professional body for communication and Public Relations practitioners.

Daniel B Greeff Pr. Eng returns “home” and joined the George Municipality on 1 January 2022 as a Deputy Director for Planning & Design in the Electro-Technical Services Department. After obtaining his B.Eng. degree from the University of North-West in 2003, he started working as a consulting engineer for more than 13 years in the Garden Route area. During this time, he was registered as a professional engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa in 2013. In 2017, he was appointed as the Manager Electro-Technical Services for Witzenberg Municipality.

In the photograph from the back left are: Martin Botha, Town Planner; Fakazile Vava, Town Planner; Khuliso Mukhovaha,Town Planner; Robert Janse Van Rensburg, Town Planner. In the front from left are Amelia Lombard, Town Planner;  Eddie Koeberg, Assistant Building Control Officer; Luthando Fatyela, Assistant Building Control Officer;  Mogamat Fickerie Toyer, Manager Building Control; Mkhululi Nyeka, Assistant Building Control Officer and Winsley Meyer, Intern Town Planner. Not present Michelle Lee, Intern ISDG GIS.

A number of new appointments in the Planning and Building Control division is already reaping rewards for the George Municipality. In previous year’s the municipal buildings have been closed between Christmas and New Year with only minimal staff on standby. This year the buildings were only closed on the Public Holidays and work continued at the usual pace. In terms of plans – 158 were processed in the season with 86 approved, which was 80 residential, 6 non-residential. 16 applications (14 residential and 2 non-residential) remain in circulation. The remaining 56 (52 residential and 4 non-residential) were not approved due to either not complying and/or additional information being required. Furthermore, a total of 55 (54 residential and 1 non-residential) Certificates of Occupancy were issued.

Five new town planners, one intern town planner and one ISDG GIS intern are welcome additions to the team.

Robert Henk Janse Van Rensburg is married and moved to George from Durban where he worked as Town Planner at K2m Environmental (Pty) Ltd. He achieved his Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning and Masters in Environmental Sciences from North-West University, Potchefstroom. His hobbies of hiking and running, fit right into the lifestyle offered by working and living in George. He is looking forward to experiencing all of the activities the Garden Route has to offer.

Khuliso Jafter Mukhovha is a registered planner with over ten years working experience at both local and provincial government level. He achieved his Bachelors in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Venda as well as a certificate in GIS and Public Management. He is originally from Ha-Mashua in Limpopo Province and is looking forward to enjoying his hobbies of travelling, hiking and soccer to name a few in George.

Amelia Lombard obtained her MSc in Urban and regional planning at the North-West University Potchefstroom Campus.  She has a passion for sustainability and hopes to make a positive change in the world. She is excited to be a part of the team at George.

Phillippus Martinus Botha, known as Martin obtained his Masters in Urban and Regional Planning and his Bachelors in Spatial Planning Honours at the University of the Free State. He also has a Batchelors in Development and Environment from Stellenbosch University. He worked as a Town Planner for seven years at Urban Dynamics, Cape Town) for 7 years and is professionally registered with SA Council for Planners since 2017 (SACPLAN): Pr. Pln. A/2518/2017). He is married to Talitha and a great sports fan, in particular of Manchester United.  He hopes to make a positive contribution to George Municipality.

Fakazile Vava was appointed Town Planner in November 2021 after completing his two year internship at George Municipality.

Winsley Leighton Meyer is a local born and raised in George. He has been appointed as an Intern town planner and obtained his B-Tech Town and Regional Planning at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He started his internship way back in 2014 with George, has interned at Oudtshoorn Municipality and most recently worked as a Candidate Planner at Delplan Urban Consulting. He joins the sporty group with his love of rugby and golf.

Michelle Lee joins us as GIS Intern for Planning and Development. She has a Bachelor of Science Geoscience( Geology & Geography) and Bachelor of Science Honours Geographical Information Systems from Nelson Mandela University.

BUILDING CONTROL
Our Building Control division was equally busy with building control contraventions and complaints that were able to addressed expeditiously over the festive season. A total of 54 residential occupation certificates and 1 non-residential were issued. 19 complaints were received and addressed.

Our new Manager Building Control is Mogamat Fickerie Toyer who comes to us with over 25 years’ experience within the build environment in both the private (10 years) and Local Government environment (+20 years). He obtained his qualifications in both Architecture and Interior Design from the Port Elizabeth Technikon (NMMU) and has computer programming studies under his belt as well. He is married with 3 children aged 15, 12 and 11 years old. Fickerie spent 20 years at Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, and then moved to Drakenstein as Manager Building Control in 2017 before accepting the post at George Municipality.

Eddie Koeberg has been appointed as Assistant Building Control Officer. He studied Building and Civil Construction at Northlink College in Cape Town and worked as a building inspector at Bitou Municipality previously. He is a local to Plettenberg Bay and married to Gillian. He is a rugby, football and soccer fan(Arsenal) and has reached the top 30 in Idols SA 2013 and 2014. He is a passionate musician, vocalist and performing artist skilled in the acoustic guitar

Luthando Fatyela appointed as Assistant Building Control Officer obtained his National Diploma in Building and Btech in Construction Management at the Cape Peninsula University in Cape Town. He has worked as a Building Inspector for the Drakenstein Municipality and worked as a Construction Supervisor for several companies around Cape Town. He was born and raised in a small township called Zwelethemba in Worcester and is another soccer fan, Kaizer Chiefs being his team of choice. He is also an avid chess player.

Our third Assistant Building Control Officer is Mkhululi Nyeka, known as MK. He obtained his National Diploma in Building and BTech in Construction Management at Cape Peninsula University of Technology CPUT and previously worked at Mossel Bay Municipality as an Assistant Building Inspector with an assignment of 28 areas of the town. He was born and raised in Cape Town and slo enjoys working outside and spending his free time exploring. 

The George Municipality wishes to commend the law enforcement agencies and SAPS for the swift action that led to the arrest of five suspects in connection with theft and vandalising of a power supply cable connected to the 66kv that is situated at the back of the sewer pump station at Gwaing on Saturday, 1 January 2022.

The municipality suffered a huge financial blow with an estimated 1800 meters of cable stolen with an approximate value of R1 million. The retrieved cable is useless and cannot be reused.

The municipality cannot provide extensive detail with regards to the police investigation, but we are satisfied to report that the police have arrested two adults and three minors from Syferfontein in connection with this incident.  The arrested persons will appear in court soon.

George Municipality cannot overemphasize the danger of stealing or tampering with energised cables. “We would like to warn the public to refrain from stealing municipal property as it is not only causing huge losses from the public’s coffers but also poses danger to the lives of those tampering with energised cables,” said Dr Michele Gratz, acting municipal manager.

“Information available at this stage suggests that, although no spillages or damage to the pump station were caused, the electrical line was tripped by the thieves. The alleged thieves could have been seriously injured or killed if the line had fallen on them or they touched it while energized,” Dr Gratz added. If a sewerage spill did occur, the environmental and health implications would have been far-reaching for the community.

A reward for information leading to a successful prosecution

George Municipality will pay a reward of R2500 to any person who offers information on vandalism and theft incidents, and which information leads to the successful conviction of the perpetrator in a court of law.  The paying of a reward is seen as a necessary step to combat the expenditure on the repair of vandalized and stolen infrastructure. These assets are managed by the municipality on behalf of the public and it is George Municipality’s request to all our residents to assist us in looking after and protecting these assets.

The public can contact the Anti-fraud toll-free number 0860 044 044 or report vandalism and theft verbally, by email, or any municipal or SAPS telephone numbers. The member of public reporting will have to supply their name and contact details as their testimony may be required for the successful conviction of the perpetrators. The identity of those helping will be protected.

George Municipality calls on the community to please assist us in eradicating theft and vandalism, to allow the municipality to improve service delivery levels and continue to improve the quality of people’s lives.

Report Illegal connections to 044 801 9222 or after hours on 044 801 6300. Report to 0860 044 044 with details to be eligible for the reward.

Ends.