last-news

George Municipality has highlighted the dangers of illegal dumping in our communities in recent weeks, but another form of illegal dumping is under the spotlight now. The dumping of litter and other items into toilets, stormwater drains, and sewer manholes causes a massive headache for the municipality. Overflowing storm water drains are generally found to be blocked by illegal materials and rubbish dumped directly into the drain causing damage and flooding down the line.

One of the main reasons for blocked drains and sewerage spills is the wrong stuff being flushed down toilets or thrown into manholes. Items that should not be flushed down toilets include baby nappies, sanitary pads and tampons, newspaper, cloth and fabric, fatty food or fat. Regular items that municipal staff have to clear from manholes include branches, tyres, rocks, mattresses and other solid items.

So not only does illegal dumping into civils drainage infrastructure led to flooding, but it can also cause this infrastructure to fail. Most recently the road surface and pavement structure of a newly built road showed signs of damage which had to be investigated and it was found that a contributing cause to the failure was the condition of the subsoil drainage. All of the stormwater structures alongside this street (see photographs) were found to be filled with illegally dumped rubbish and dirt which clogged the outlets of the subsoil drains draining into these stormwater structures.

The subsoil drains could not function to protect the road layer works from subsurface moisture, which is one of the factors leading to the premature failure of the road. Preliminary estimates indicates that the repair work could cost between R1.2-1.8 mill which would entail the reconstruction of the effected layer works, resurfacing the road as well as cleaning the subsoil drains.

The municipality appeals to communities to NOT flush unsuitable items down the toilet, and to help prevent people from throwing stuff down manholes.
• Report blocked stormwater drains and sewerage complaints to Civil Engineering Services on 044 801 9262/66 during office hours or 044 801 6300 after hours.
• Waste should be collected in refuse bags and placed for collection on your areas waste removal days.
• Builders’ rubble and waste not suitable for bags must be dropped at the municipal refuse site on the R102 (airport road).

If you can provide names, vehicle registration details or addresses of alleged perpetrators who have dumped illegally and you are willing to make a statement in this regard, please report it to Law Enforcement at 044 801 6350 or sprins@george.gov.za. You don’t need a photograph of the perpetrator, but it will strengthen the case for a warning or fine to be issued.

Kyknet se Kwêla het op 3 Maart 2024 weer hulle immergewilde “Dorp van die Jaar” kompetisie aangekondig en dit is tyd dat inwoners van George saamstaan om die gesogte titel te wen!

Waar in George kry jy die lekkerste gebak? Is dit die een dorp in die land waar jy altyd sal tuis voel as jy in die strate afry? Hoeveel skatte lê versteek in jou gemeenskap? Is jou gunsteling slaghuis die beste in die land? Wat is juwele in die dorp, waarop jy trots is. Benoem nou vir George as jou gunsteling dorp en staan ’n kans om met die dorp en die mense daar te spog!

Enige dorp in Suid-Afrika of Namibië kan benoem word, mits dit minder as 500 000 inwoners het en nie ’n streekswenner in die laaste twee jaar was nie.

Benoem jou gunsteling dorp uit enige streek, deur die dorpsnaam na 33157 te SMS (SMS’e kos R1,50). Inskrywings het op Sondag, 3 Maart om 19h00 geopen en sluit Vrydag, 15 Maart 2024 om 12h00 die middag. Jy kan soveel dorpies benoem soveel keer as wat jy wil (net een dorpsnaam per SMS, en soveel sms’e as jy wil in hierdie nominasie rondte).

Uit elke streek sal die drie dorpe met die meeste benoemings deurdring na die semi-finale rondte (op 14 April, 21 April en 28 April). Hier kry die publiek vir ‘n week lank elke rondte ’n geleentheid om vir hul gunsteling-dorp uit die 3 semi-finaliste uit elke streek te stem. Die rondte laat net 30 sms’e per selfoonnommer toe. Die dorp met die meeste stemme sal die kompetisie-streek as hul finalis-dorp in die finale rondte verteenwoordig.

Kwêla sal ’n insetsel op elk van die nege dorpe wat die finale rondte gehaal het kom verfilm en wanneer al nege dorpe op Kwêla gewys is, sal die publiek van 19h00 op 14 Julie tot 12h00 die middag, 19 Julie, vir die wendorp kan stem.

Die wendorp word op 28 Julie 2024 op Kwêla aangekondig en wen dan die Dorp van die Jaar titel sowel as ’n ongelooflike R1 miljoen se bemarkingswaarde van Kyknet. Homebrew Films, die vervaardigers van Kwêla, sal ’n 45 sekonde advertensie oor die dorp maak, wat gedurende kykNET se advertensietyd uitgesaai sal word. Daar sal ook ’n groot opskop in die wendorp gehou word – musiek, kos, pret en sommer baie van daai wendorp-gees! Kwêla sal weer daar wees om dit te verfilm, en dit sal later die jaar uitgesaai word. Lottoland het ook ‘n verrassing vir die wendorp, wat aangekondig sal word. Lottoland skenk ook in hulle eie hoedanighed ‘n R1miljoen kontantprys vir die dorp om in hul dorp terug te ploeg en wat deur hulle geoudit sal word.

Indien u meer inligting versoek of groter ondersteuning aan die veldtog wil verleen, kontak gerus George Munisipaliteit se Toerismebestuurder, Joan Shaw by jshaw@george.gov.za.

Look no further than this video highlighting the best that George has to offer!
https://youtu.be/m7YMxJD9shs?si=k7GPBwvdQRQGO1Tm

Kyknet’s Kwêla launched their popular ‘Dorp van die Jaar’ competition for 2024 on 3 March 2024, and it is time that the beautiful town of George took centre stage to show off its magnificent attributes. All towns in the 9 provinces of South Africa or Namibia with less than 500,000 residents, that have not been regional winners in the past three years qualify to be nominated.

What do you find special about George?  What are the special things that make you feel at home when you drive down the roads?  How many treasures are hidden in your community?  What are the jewels of your town that you are proud of?  Name George as your favourite town and you may win bragging rights for your entire town and its people!

John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address inspired citizens to see the importance of civic action and public service. His historic words, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” challenged every American to contribute to the public good. This is your opportunity, George!  In this case, ‘Ask not what your town can do for you – ask what you can do for your town.’  (with apologies to JFK).  The ultimate winner of the Town of the Year will receive R1 million in advertising on Kyknet.  This will be an invaluable boost to promoting our town as a tourist destination in the domestic and Namibian market, so please send an SMS to the benefit of every resident in George.

Nominate George by SMSing GEORGE to 33157 (SMS’s cost R1,50).  Entries of nominations close on Friday, 15 March at noon.  You can name as many towns as many times as you wish, but only one town name per SMS. 

Three towns with the most nominations from every region will go through to the semi-finals that will be announced on 14 April, 21 April, and 28 April 2024, when the public will have a weeklong opportunity to vote for their favourite town of the three finalists.  Only 30 SMSs per person will be allowed in this round.  The town with the most votes will represent their region as a finalist. Kwêla will film an insert on each of the 9 finalists, and once all nine towns are announced, the public can vote for their favourite between 19:00 on 14 July and noon on 19 July 2024.

The winning town will be announced on 28 July 2024, on Kwêla and take home the coveted title of Town of the Year, and an incredible R1 million advertising contract with Kyknet.  Homebrew Films, the producers of Kwela will make a 45-second advertisement on the town that will be broadcast during Kyknet’ s advertising time.  In addition to this, a festive function will be held in the town to celebrate with music, food, and fun, showing off the winning team’s spirit.  Lottoland has another surprise in store for the winning town as they will also donate a cash prize of R1 million to the town to invest back into the town.  Go on, it will be worth it!

This project will take a mammoth effort from the town, but if everyone pitches in, we can make it happen!  Residents and businesses that wish to be more involved in the process can contact George Municipality’s Tourism Manager, Joan Shaw, on jshaw@george.gov.za for more details.

Ald Leon van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George

On Friday, 1 March 2024 it was reported that Knysna Municipal Council had accepted the Western Cape Government’s diagnostic assessment and financial recovery support plan to address the deepening service delivery crisis in our neighbouring municipality.

This decision is the first step of the many that will need to be taken over the coming months and years. In all municipalities, the budget is delicately balanced between the collection of budgeted revenues and planned expenditure, often only leaving a surplus of 1% or less. This calls for responsible management by the administration and oversight by the council. In Knysna, it is not only a collapse of service delivery in respect of water, refuse and sewage services and under-collection of outstanding debtors. There is also a substantial bank overdraft along with outstanding creditors. The recovery process will be a long haul. Knysna is a case study for citizens to reflect on how the votes that they cast in the 2021 local government elections have contributed to the instability in the council and the administration. Councils need to practise good governance to ensure that municipalities are able to deliver the services that they are mandated to deliver.

The collapse of state capacity in Knysna has had direct knock-on effects on the lives of citizens and the economy. This also affects George and the region where the leadership and management of local authorities have been working hard to make improvements that will benefit communities and ethe economy.

During the past week, I have been involved in a series of engagements to address the challenges being experienced in the Province and the country. During the regular quarterly meeting where the premier meets with mayors and municipal managers, we were briefed on the ongoing energy crisis and the efforts to get additional megawatts of renewable energy being generated privately into the grid as soon as possible. We also reviewed the disaster management measures put in place to counter the 12-day electricity blackout across Central Karoo towns after grid pylons collapsed in a severe thunderstorm. Lessons learnt have also been noted. During the current summer season there was an alarming increase in the number of mountain and veld fires. During the fires in Overstrand, teams from George were sent to provide assistance.

During a workshop held in Cape Town, we were briefed on the importance of implementing successful international practices in our cities and towns. This reinforced the approach and work that is being undertaken in George. The maintenance and upgrade of infrastructure, whilst ensuring basic service provision are proven ingredients to attract investment and jobs. Employment is the key driver to improve the quality of life for our citizens. It is therefore important to create the linkages to ensure that entrepreneurs and economic stakeholders step forward to collaborate in moulding opportunities that will benefit our citizens. In addition, it is critical that measures are introduced to reduce crime. The sustainability of energy and water provision will require attention. The education and health systems require improvements along with practical measures to reduce levels of poverty.

Alderman Leon van Wyk
Executive Mayor of George

Dep Mayor and Georgie:
George Deputy Mayor, Cllr Raybin Figland and mascot Georgie sent of the athletes with inspiring words of support.

Raven Benny, a wheelchair user for the last 24 years, has missed only one OCC to date. This was after he coincidentally happened to visit the Garden Route during the first race and was faced with closed streets and red flags as he entered town. Awed by the concept, Benny has been bringing groups of wheelchair users to the OCC ever since.

This year, he was intent on using the most affordable, available, safe public transport from KZN to George (using a long-distance bus service) and in and around George. He made email enquiries about the GO GEORGE ticketing system and where to buy cards before they embarked on their journey.

Putting public transport to the test
“It has been a predominantly rewarding experience to have been in a town that has a working accessible public transport system in place,” Benny said. “My friends and I used the past four days to really put accessible public transport to the test and were sadly dissatisfied and disappointed at times at the level of service received from the long-distance carrier.
“However, we are in awe of the efficiency of the GO GEORGE bus service. We appreciated it from the first trip on Friday morning. We had time for six trips in all directions and found it safe and easy to use, accessible to navigate independently and surprisingly affordable. The only time we felt let down, was when we could not top up our cards to load more rides at the recommended vendor. But this was resolved by doing it at the George Transport Hub with the support and guidance of the GO GEORGE Call Centre.

“All the other moments were fun and memorable, and the bus service allowed us to circulate independently throughout the town during our two-day stay. We disembarked from the long-distance bus at the George station and used only GO GEORGE buses for the next two days – to our accommodation, from there to the registration point, to the shops, and even when we forgot our meal tickets on the morning of the event, we sent one of our helpers to go fetch it using GO GEORGE. We have trips left on our cards and will definitely be back to use them!”

Ghana’s champ loves the minibus hoist
Participants from Ghana were equally impressed with the GO GEORGE service as they tested the hydraulic hoist on the GO GEORGE minibus exhibited at the OCC. Star marathon athlete and winner of the 42-km racing cycle category, Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe participated for the fifth time this year and says the OCC is a fixture on his calendar.

“Our club minibus in Ghana is also fitted with a hoist but seeing it on public transport in South Africa is awesome. I look forward to the day we can boast the same kind of universal accessibility on the public buses in my country too,” Nkegbe said.

Capetonians felt safe on the buses
Another regular group of visitors and participants in the 5-km event is the Mandla Sport 4 Change organisation from Cape Town of whom several members tested the minibus hoist. According to Chairperson Vanessa Baadjies, they felt safe to travel with GO GEORGE, having enough space to board in their wheelchairs and being able to strap into the wheelchair bay.

GO GEORGE participation
Eighteen members of the GO GEORGE communications team pulled out all the stops to support participants and visitors, manning an information gazebo next to the demonstration minibus and telling visitors more about the service and its focus on universal accessibility. As always, the mascot Georgie and communication champions were there to cheer on the participants and pose for photos with “fans”. This time, they also participated in the fun go-kart race, making the finish line exhausted but chuffed with themselves.

Peter Sampson on hoist:
Peter Sampson, part of the Mandla Sports 4 Change team from Cape Town, said he felt very safe to travel with GO GEORGE, having enough space to board in his wheelchair and being able to strap into the wheelchair bay.

Raven Benny and Shirnae:
Raven Benny led a team from Kwazulu-Natal, using only public transport to and in George and back home. To accommodate their five wheelchairs on one bus, some of the team members were assisted to sit on the seats while folding up their wheelchairs. With him is Shirnae van Coller from the GO GEORGE Call Centre who guided the group to get to the Transport Hub to top up their cards with trips.

KZN group at bus stop:
This group of wheelchair users from Kwazulu-Natal spent their entire journey and time in George using only public transport. Here they are waiting for a GO GEORGE bus, supported by GO GEORGE communication champions.

Raphael Botsyo Ghana:
Ghana’s star marathon athlete and winner of the 42-km racing cycle category, Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe said he is looking forward to the day they can boast the same kind of universal accessibility on the public buses in his country. He enjoyed the informative demonstration by driver Johndré du Plessis.

Go-kart team:
George Municipality’s Public Transport Oversight Official, James Robb (second from right), wishing the GO GEORGE go-kart team well before they “take on the open road in their first attempt at the coveted title”. The driver in front is Akhona Gxumisa and at the back from left are Tyron Jeyi, Thobile Simelele, Robb and Ryan Manuel.

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OCC-besoekers beïndruk deur GO GEORGE-funksies
Raven Benny, ‘n rolstoelgebruiker vir die afgelope 24 jaar, het tot dusver net een Outeniqua-rolstoelmarathon (OCC) gemis. Dit was nadat hy toevallig tydens die heel eerste wedren die Tuinroete besoek het en op geslote strate en rooi vlae afgekom het toe hy die dorp binnekom. Met groot waardering vir die konsep bring Benny sedertdien groepe rolstoelgebruikers na die OCC.
Vanjaar was hy van voorneme om die mees bekostigbare, beskikbare, veilige openbare vervoer van KZN na George (met ‘n langafstandbusdiens), en in en om George te gebruik. Hy het per e-pos navraag gedoen oor die GO GEORGE-kaartjiestelsel en waar om kaarte te koop voordat hulle weg is by die huis.

Openbare vervoer getoets
“Dit was grotendeels ‘n bevredigende ervaring om in ‘n dorp te wees wat ‘n werkende, toeganklike openbare vervoerstelsel bedryf,” het Benny gesê. “Ek en my vriende het die afgelope vier dae gebruik om werklik toeganklike openbare vervoer op die proef te stel en was ontevrede en teleurgesteld oor die vlak van diens wat ons op die langafstandbus ontvang het.

“Ons is egter in verwondering oor die doeltreffendheid van die GO GEORGE-busdiens. Ons het dit waardeer vanaf die eerste rit Vrydagoggend. Ons het tyd gehad vir ses ritte in alle rigtings en het dit veilig en maklik gevind om te gebruik, toeganklik om onafhanklik te navigeer, en verrassend bekostigbaar. Die enigste keer dat ons in die steek gelaat gevoel het, was toe ons nie ons kaarte kon aanvul met ritte by die aanbevole verkoper nie. Maar die probleem is opgelos deur ons kaarte by die George-vervoerkern (Transport Hub) te herlaai met die ondersteuning en leiding van die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum.

“Al die ander oomblikke was lekker en onvergeetlik en die busdiens het dit vir ons moontlik gemaak om onafhanklik deur die dorp te beweeg tydens ons verblyf van twee dae. Ons het by die George-stasie van die langafstandbus afgeklim en vir die volgende twee dae slegs GO GEORGE-busse gebruik – na ons verblyf, van daar na die resiesregistrasiepunt, na die winkels, en selfs toe ons die oggend van die marathon ons etekaartjies vergeet het, het ons een van ons helpers gestuur om dit met ’n GO GEORGE-bus te gaan haal. Ons het ritte oor op ons kaarte en kom beslis terug om dit te gebruik!”

Ghana se kampioen hou van minibushyser
Deelnemers van Ghana was ewe beïndruk met die GO GEORGE-diens toe hulle die hidrouliese hyser op die GO GEORGE-minibus wat by die OCC uitgestal is, getoets het.
“Ons klub in Ghana se minibus is ook toegerus met ‘n hyser, maar dit is wonderlik om dit op openbare vervoer in Suid-Afrika te sien. Ek sien uit na die dag wat ons ook met dieselfde soort universele toeganklikheid op die openbare busse in my land kan spog,” het Nkegbe gesê.

Kapenaars voel veilig op die busse
Nog ‘n gereelde groep besoekers en deelnemers aan die 5 km-byeenkoms is die Mandla Sport 4 Change-organisasie van Kaapstad van wie verskeie lede die minibushyser getoets het. Volgens voorsitter Vanessa Baadjies het hulle veilig gevoel om met GO GEORGE te reis, en was daar genoeg ruimte om met gemak op die bus te kom in hul rolstoele en in die rolstoelruimte vas te gespe.

GO GEORGE-deelname
Agtien lede van die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan het hul kant gebring om deelnemers en besoekers te ondersteun, ‘n inligtingsgazebo langs die demonstrasie-minibus te beman en besoekers meer oor die diens en die fokus op universele toeganklikheid te vertel. Soos altyd was die gelukbringer Georgie en passasiersdiensbeamptes daar om die deelnemers entoesiasties aan te moedig en saam met “bewonderaars” vir foto’s te poseer. Hierdie keer het hulle ook aan die prettige kaskarwedloop deelgeneem en die wenstreep uitgeput maar hoogs in hul skik gehaal.

Peter Sampson op hyser:
Peter Sampson, deel van die Mandla Sports 4 Change-span van Kaapstad, sê hy voel baie veilig om met GO GEORGE te reis, met genoeg spasie om in sy rolstoel op die bus te kom en in die rolstoelruimte vas te gespe.

Raven Benny en Shirnae:
Raven Benny het ‘n span van KwaZulu-Natal gelei en slegs openbare vervoer na en in George en terug huis toe gebruik. Om hul vyf rolstoele in een bus te akkommodeer, is van die spanlede gehelp om hul rolstoele op te vou en op die bus se sitplekke te sit. Saam met hom is Shirnae van Coller van die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum wat die groep gehelp het om by die Vervoerkern (Hub) uit te kom om hul kaarte met ritte aan te vul.

KZN-groep by bushalte:
Dié groep rolstoelgebruikers van KwaZulu-Natal het hul hele reis en tyd in George deurgebring deur slegs openbare vervoer te gebruik. Hier wag hulle vir ‘n GO GEORGE-bus, bygestaan deur GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes.

Raphael Botsyo Ghana:
Ghana se ster-marathonatleet en wenner van die 42 km-renfietskategorie, Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe, het gesê hy sien uit na die dag waarop hulle met dieselfde soort universele toeganklikheid op die openbare busse in sy land kan spog. Hy het die insiggewende demonstrasie deur die busbestuurder Johndré du Plessis geniet.

Go-kart team:
George-munisipaliteit se toesigbeampte oor openbare vervoer, James Robb (tweede van regs), wens die GO GEORGE-kaskarspan sterkte toe voordat hulle “die oop pad aanpak in hul eerste poging tot die gesogte titel”. Die bestuurder voor is Akhona Gxumisa en agter van links is Tyron Jeyi, Thobile Simelele, Robb en Ryan Manuel.

Dep Mayor and Georgie:
George se onderburgemeester, raadslid Raybin Figland, en gelukbringer Georgie het die atlete met inspirerende woorde by die wegspringplek ondersteun.

Approximately 744 learners from schools in Uniondale, Haarlem and surrounding areas attended the Career Exhibition

George Municipality’s commitment to fostering educational and career development was prominently demonstrated through active participation in the annual Career Pathing and Awareness open day held in Uniondale on 20 and 21 February 2024.

The event witnessed enthusiastic involvement from various Service Departments of George Municipality, including Electrotechnical Services, Civil Engineering Services Department, Traffic Department, Law Enforcement, and Fire & Rescue Services. Organised by Cape Nature in collaboration with the George Municipality’s Youth Office, this annual Career Exhibition serves the Uniondale, Haarlem surrounding rural areas.

Aiming to create awareness and introduce students and youth to diverse career paths available locally and across South Africa, the event also seeks to inspire hope and guide informed decision-making regarding subject choices. Approximately 744 learners from schools in Avontuur, Vlakteplaas, Kommandantsdrift, Dirk Boshoff Primary School in Haarlem, and Uniondale High School actively participated in the exhibition.

The event featured not only George Municipality’s departments but also various stakeholders, including Cape Nature, Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Forensic Pathology Services, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), South African NAVY, South African Police Services (SAPS), Explosive Unit, K9 SAPS, Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Ka Attiqua and other organisations. By bringing together these diverse entities, the collective effort aimed to provide valuable insights and information, empowering the youth to make informed decisions about their future careers.

Assisting EPWP workers, Cindy Potts, Sue-ne Jacobs and Theresa Snyman was Portfolio Councillor for Community Services: Parks, Refuse and Environment, Theresa Jeyi.

In the final week of Illegal Dumping Awareness Month, our Community Services cleaning teams have collected another 13 100 bags of illegally dumped rubbish bringing the grand total to an astonishing 55 750 bags collected for the month of February. Areas cleared this week include Rosemoor (Beer Street); Blanco (Steepkoppie Street, near the Cemetery, Main Entrance and Golden Valley Street) and five Tyre and Beautification Projects were finalised in Rosedale, Parkdene, Rosemoor and Thembalethu. Municipal Law Enforcement officials have continued patrolling hot spots and issued another R4000 in fines and three warnings. The fine for being caught illegal dumping is R1000.

Tanja Botha (Environmental Health Practitioner) and EPWP workers with the Hazardous Waste collected on Friday 23 February.

The Hazardous Waste Open Day held on Friday 23 February was a resounding success with Microwaves, Vacuum cleaners, TV’s, irons, computers, printers, ink cartridges, light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, LED lights, small gas bottles, cell phones, power banks, alarm batteries, A4 batteries, paint, thinners, motor oil, poison, herbicide and pesticide clock radios and radios, CD’s, tape gazettes and medical waste handed in. Please keep an eye on our social media channels for our next Hazardous Waste Open Day due to be held in May 2024.

Law Enforcement Officers Verona Botha and Nicole Smith issuing fines in Rotary Street, Parkdene.

Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz extended her thanks and congratulations to the teams who have worked so hard this month to clear the illegal dump hot spots. “We really need cooperation from everyone to keep their communities clean and hope that the tyre beautification projects which encourage the growing of plants will stop people from repeatedly dumping at the same places. There are over 97 illegal dumping hot spots that have been identified by the Directorate Community Services and it is impossible to monitor all of them. We ask the public to assist by not only reporting illegal dumping but also to put their waste into refuse bags and keep them at their house until their refuse collection day.”

Report Illegal Dumping
Help the municipality to curb illegal dumping by spreading the news in your community that the dumping of waste is dangerous and a health hazard. Waste should be collected in refuse bags and placed for collection on waste removal days. Builders’ rubble and waste not suitable for bags must be dropped at the municipal refuse site on the R102 (airport road). If you can provide names, vehicle registration details or addresses of alleged perpetrators who have dumped illegally and you are willing to make a statement in this regard, please report it to Law Enforcement at 044 801 6350 or sprins@george.gov.za. You don’t need a photograph of the perpetrator, but it will strengthen the case for a warning or fine to be issued.

On the photo from left: Deon de Jager (Deputy Director of Water and Sanitation), Benjamin Ndzipho (Artisan Plumber, Water Distribution), Joelian Scheepers (Superintendent of Water Distribution)

George Municipality proudly congratulates Benjamin Ndzipho an artisan plumber, for an outstanding 35 years of dedicated service. Mr Ndzipho commenced his journey with George Municipality on 22 February 1989, appointed at the Directorate of Civil Engineering Services in the Street and Stormwater Section.

Reflecting on the early days, Ndzipho recalls a time marked by rules and respect within the Municipality during the 1980s and 1990s. He played a significant role in various projects, including the Upgrading of Montagu Street in Blanco, covering the stretch from Blanco Post Office to Fancourt. His involvement also extended to the construction of Platner Boulevard, connecting Checkers in York Street to Barkhuizen Drive. During this period, the Loerie Park area was in its pristine state, with Benjamin actively participating in its clearing.

In the 1980s and 1990s, all road-building materials, kerbs, and concrete were sourced from the quarry above the Old Water Treatment Plant, located on 9th Avenue in Denneoord. Mr. Ndzipho transitioned from Streets and Stormwater to Water Distribution in 1995, where he continues to make valuable contributions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Benjamin Ndzipho is a humble golfer, boasting a handicap of 10 at the George Golf Club and a handicap of 5 at the Glenwood Golf Course.

The Director of the Civil Engineering Services Department, Mr. Jannie Koegelenberg, extends heartfelt congratulations to Benjamin Ndzipho on behalf of the Directorate for his remarkable achievement. “We appreciate and acknowledge his enduring commitment to service,” Koegelenberg said.

Photographed in the Link, George Municipal Main Building are from left George CFO, Riaan Du Plessis; National Treasury, Dr Letsepa Pakkies; Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz; Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk; National Treasury, Mandla Gilimani and National Treasury, Sibusiswe Mchani with senior officials from George Municipality and National Treasury standing.

A delegation of National Treasury officials visited George last week for the 2023/24 mid-year budget and performance assessment which focused on the state of services including electricity, waste, and water and sanitation services.

A full day of interactive presentations by each directorate was held on Thursday 22 February. This was followed by site visits on Friday 23 February to the existing 20 Ml/d Water Treatment Works which has been upgraded, the new 20 Ml/d module, a new residual handling facility and the clear water rising main which is in process of being upgraded. The group also visited the Garden Route Dam Pumpstation suction pipe upgrade project and the 1Megawatt Peak (MWp) solar PV plant.

CFO for George, Riaan Du Plessis noted that the Finance Directorate appreciates the opportunity to partner with Nation Treasury in strengthening inter-governmental relations by using engagement such as these to share information and ideas on how we can collectively improve the local government sphere in the Garden Route.

“The session last week provided National Treasury with a valuable opportunity to get a clearer understanding of the practical day-to-day challenges the municipality deals with in ensuring effective service delivery in the current difficult fiscal climate of high interest rates and costs of living. The visit further gives opportunity for National Treasury to visit in person the projects that are funded by the various grants allocated in the Division of Revenue Act,” said Du Plessis.

Civils – 20 Ml/d WTW : Residuals Pumpstation and Settling Tanks

Civils 1 – 20 Ml/d Module 3 and 4 and Existing WTW on Left

Civils 2 – Clearwater Pumpstation – new pumps

Civils 3 – Garden Route Dam Suction Pipework : At pump mains connection chamber – Andre Scheepers, CES Project Manager (BFI) in in the photograph pointing out details to the National Treasury officials.

1 MW Plant: Acting Director Electrotechnical Services, Daniel Greeff with the National Treasury delegation at the 1 Megawatt Peak (MWp) solar PV plant under construction in George.

In the photo standing on the left is a facilitator of Parenting Training, Ms Sonika Bardenhorst (Social Worker at Kidstop) and sitting on the right is Mr Jonathan Gelderbloem, the Chairperson of PLOTS, Kidstop

The George Municipality is actively engaged in addressing homelessness through a comprehensive forum dedicated to working with People Living on the Streets (PLOTS). The primary focus of this initiative is reunification services, aiming to integrate people back into communities successfully. Sophia Fanelo, the Community Development Manager at George Municipality, emphasises the complexity of this process, highlighting the need to address the root causes of homelessness to ensure a permanent and successful reintegration.

The municipality coordinates a collaborative effort, bringing together various stakeholders such as the Department of Social Services (DSD), the South African Police Service (SAPS), Christian Rehabilitation Ministries to the Homeless of George (CREMHOG), People Against Substance Abuse (PASA), Smoking & Alcohol Harms Alleviation & Rehabilitation Association (SAHARA), the Department of Health, Stop Trafficking, and the Department of Justice. Fanelo invites other organisations to join the forum to collectively contribute to holistically addressing homelessness.

As part of their holistic approach, the Community Development Department at George Municipality tackles all factors influencing reunification. The ongoing jobseekers programme assists in economic empowerment by providing support in creating CVs and completing application forms for homeless individuals.

Fanelo highlights recent initiatives, including surveys conducted with SAHARA from 5 to 8 February 2024 to identify new residents on the streets and intervene accordingly. A wellness program on 16 February 2024, in partnership with the Department of Health, focused on sexually transmitted diseases and HIV testing.

The proactive efforts have resulted in positive outcomes, with three people relocating to night shelters and seven individuals successfully reunified with their families in George. Referrals are made to the Department of Social Services for minors found on the streets.

The municipality hosted a parent training from 20 to 22 February 2024 for parents currently on the streets, aiming for future reunification with their loved ones. The programme was facilitated by Kidstop. Additionally, a sewing program has been initiated, accommodating a limited number of participants due to resource constraints.

Fanelo concludes by urging collective action, emphasising that everyone can make a difference, one step at a time, and encouraging individuals to contribute solutions rather than complaints.

Law Enforcement Officials Verona Botha and Nicole Smith issuing a R1000 fine for illegal dumping in Sarah Crescent, Rosedale.

Municipal Law Enforcement officials have been patrolling illegal dumping hot spots over the past month and have issued fines to the value of R8000 and 15 warnings. In terms of the applicable By-Laws being enforced, the fine for being caught illegal dumping is R1000. The law enforcement has been in support of the Community Services cleaning teams who have continued to clear hot spot areas in February, with a total of 29 430 black bags of refuse picked up. This past week illegal dump sites were cleared in Thembalethu (Phelandaba, Nelson Mandela Boulevard); Borcherds (Spandiel Street); Rosemoor (Miller Street); Blanco (Golden Valley); Conville (Fiskaal, Valk and Pienaar Street, Nelson Mandela Boulevard) and Uniondale (Du Preez Street). Eva Crescent in Rosedale received a tyre beautification.

The Community Services Directorate has concluded the Illegal Dumping month with a Hazardous Waste Open Day on Friday 23 February. The public are encouraged to hold onto their dangerous items and to safely dispose of them when the municipality hosts its quarterly Open Day. The municipality will take motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid, used antifreeze, paint, paint thinner, turpentine, pesticides or herbicides, household batteries, old TV’s, electronics, tyres, fluorescent tubes, globes, and household medical waste such as needles, old medicine and tablets. The public is requested to bring the items you wish to dispose of in a strong box preferably in their original, labelled containers. Please do not mix the products together. We are unable to take explosives, ammunition, radioactive materials and controlled substances.

Report Illegal Dumping
Help the municipality to curb illegal dumping by spreading the news in your community that the dumping of waste is dangerous and a health hazard. Waste should be collected in refuse bags and placed for collection on waste removal days. Builders’ rubble and waste not suitable for bags must be dropped at the municipal refuse site on the R102 (airport road). If you can provide names, vehicle registration details or addresses of alleged perpetrators who have dumped illegally and you  are willing to make a statement in this regard, please report it to Law Enforcement at 044 801 6350 or sprins@george.gov.za. You don’t need a photograph of the perpetrator, but it will strengthen the case for a warning or fine to be issued.

Eva Crescent in Rosedale was given a tyre beautification after the illegal dump site was cleared.

CAPTION:
This route map indicates the rerouted bus routes and the OCC route that will apply this year.

GO GEORGE will be making temporary changes to certain routes to accommodate the Outeniqua Chair Challenge (OCC) on Saturday 24 February 2024.

With the race village at Carpe Diem School in Lang Street, the impact of this annual event on the bus service is minimal. Below is a summary of the affected routes.

Route 9 Industrial Loop
All scheduled trips on this route, reverse trips included, will operate in the forward direction only, until about 12:30. All stops on the side of the street normally serviced by the reverse route will be closed for the duration of the race.

Route 13 City Loop Forward & Reverse, R18 Parkdene – Blanco and R18A Thembalethu – Blanco
Due to the closure of Union Street between Meade and York Streets until 12:30, these routes will turn right into Meade Street from Union Street, left into Palgrave, left into York, and right into Plattner Blvd to continue as usual. Route 13 Reverse will follow the same rerouting, just in reverse.

Routes 53 Rosemoor and 53B Rosemoor Express
Due to the partial closure of Park Road in front of Blue Mountain, these two routes will travel via Knysna Road when departing from the Garden Route Mall, turn left into St George Road at CTM and right into Park Road to continue the normal route. The same rerouting will apply to trips from town in the direction of the Mall. Park Road should be open by 10:00.

Delays to be expected
Accommodating the start of the 21-km and 42-km races from the starting point in Lang Street, via Hope Street to the airport road circle, there will be delays on all routes passing through the circle, mainly between 07:00 and 07:20.
Due to single-lane traffic from 06:00 along the entire OCC route, from Carpe Diem School to the turning point behind Eden Meander, delays must be expected on all routes, with traffic of-ficers controlling traffic to let athletes pass. York Street from the circle at Unity Park to Churchill Street should be back to normal by 10:00; from Churchill Street to Union Street, single lane traffic will apply until 11:30.

Passengers are advised to take an earlier bus to ensure being on time for work, while GO GEORGE also calls on employers to be understanding and patient, should any workers arrive a little bit late.

For more information, please phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044, or visit the GO GEORGE Facebook page for details.

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GO GEORGE herlei busse vir rolstoelmaraton

GO GEORGE sal tydelike veranderings aan sekere roetes aanbring om die Outeniqua-rolstoelmaraton (OCC) op Saterdag 24 Februarie 2024 te akkommodeer.

Met die maratonsentrum by Carpe Diem-skool in Langstraat is die impak van die geleentheid op die busdiens minimaal. Hier onder volg ‘n opsomming van die roetes wat geraak word.

Roete 9 Industrial Loop
Alle geskeduleerde ritte op hierdie roete, omgekeerde (reverse) ritte ingesluit, sal kloksgewys (forward) ry tot 12:00. Alle bushaltes aan die kant van die straat wat normaalweg gediens word deur die omgekeerde roete sal gesluit word vir die duur van die wedloop.

Roete 13 City Loop F & R, R18 Parkdene – Blanco en R18A Thembalethu – Blanco

As gevolg van die sluiting van Uniestraat tussen Meade- en Yorkstraat tot 12:30 sal hierdie roetes uit Uniestraat regs draai in Meadestraat, links in Palgravestraat, links in Yorkstraat, regs in Plattnerboulevard, en van daar af soos gewoonlik voortgaan. Roete 13R sal dieselfde roete omgekeerd volg.

Roetes 53 Rosemoor en 53B Rosemoor Express
As gevolg van die gedeeltelike sluiting van Parkweg voor Blue Mountain sal hierdie twee roetes via Knysnaweg ry wanneer dit van die Garden Route Mall vertrek, links draai in die St Georgeweg by CTM, en regs in Parkweg om die normale roete van daar af voort te sit. Dieselfde herleiding sal geld vir ritte uit die dorp in die rigting van die Mall. Parkweg behoort oopgestel te wees teen 10:00.

Wees vertragings te wagte
Tydens die wegspring van die 21-km en 42-km-wedlope vanaf die beginpunt in Langstraat, via Hopestraat na die lughawepad-sirkel sal vertragings voorkom op alle roetes wat deur die sirkel gaan, veral tussen 07:00 en 07:20.
Enkelbaanverkeer sal vanaf 06:00 geld op die hele OCC-roete, van Carpe Diem-skool tot by die omdraaipunt agter Eden Meander en verkeersbeamptes sal verkeer beheer om atlete te laat verbygaan. Passasiers moet dus vertragings op alle roetes te wagte wees. Yorkstraat vanaf die sirkel by Eenheidspark tot by Churchillstraat behoort teen 10:00 terug te keer na normaal; vanaf Churchillstraat tot by Uniestraat sal enkelbaanverkeer tot 11:30 van toepassing wees.

Passasiers word aangeraai om ‘n vroeër bus te neem om te verseker dat hulle betyds vir werk opdaag, terwyl GO GEORGE ook ‘n beroep op werkgewers doen om begrip en geduld te toon indien enige werkers ‘n bietjie laat kom.

Vir meer inligting, skakel asseblief die GO GEORGE inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044, of besoek die GO GEORGE Facebook-blad vir besonderhede.

Onderskrif:
Hierdie roetekaart toon die herleide busroetes asook die OCC-roete wat vanjaar van toepassing sal wees.

Alderman Leon van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George

During the past week, I have had the privilege of meeting with various role players to monitor the pulse of the economy in George.

The activities for the six months ended December 2023 for the Planning and Development Directorate report that 112 land use applications were finalised.

At Building Control, the building plans approved in the six months totalled R1403 million relating to 1094 buildings of which business and industrial buildings amount to the value of R347 million. Over this period, occupation certificates to the value of R793 million had been issued.

These statistics provide some insight into the intense level of economic activity taking place in George and the productivity of the municipal team processing these applications.

The Provincial Minister of Mobility, MEC Ricardo Mackenzie visited George so that we could engage with state entities about their readiness to manage the growth experienced in George and the Garden Route. Discussions with the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) were held to check in on their proposed plans to expand George Airport in the coming years to handle the anticipated passenger growth. It was indicated that in 2019 there were no direct flights from the USA to Cape Town airport. At present, there are 13 weekly flights from American cities. This provides an inkling of the increase in international tourism being experienced in the Western Cape.

We also met with Transnet executives to establish their plans for maintaining and operating their infrastructure in and around George and Mossel Bay. Suggestions were made about collaboration that would be to the benefit of tourism, rail freight and the need for movement of fresh fruit and vegetable produce by rail. Transnet has indicated that they are developing new business models that include the issue of concessions to operate trains on the rail network.

These discussions reflect the increasingly important role that local and provincial government now need to play to ensure that state enterprises and departments undertake the tasks required of them to deliver services. The national government and the state enterprises have become increasingly incapable of performing their responsibilities and functions. The work being done by the Western Cape Government in terms of infrastructure development and its Growth for Jobs strategy is therefore critical for economic activity and employment. As the largest municipality outside of the City of Cape Town, we therefore welcome the support we are receiving for the growth in George.

During the week, the regional chapter of the Institute of Municipal Engineers met in George. During my short address to them, I stressed the important work that they are doing to develop and maintain infrastructure growth amidst the growth across the Garden Route.

Alderman Leon van Wyk
Executive of George

The workshop garnered significant interest and provided valuable insights to event organisers.

George Tourism, a division of the George Municipality conducted a highly successful events support and compliance workshop on Friday, 16 February 2024, at the George Municipality’s Conference Hall. The workshop garnered significant interest and provided valuable insights to event organisers on the application processes for event support, both in cash and in-kind. The event saw an impressive turnout, with a full house indicating participants’ keen interest and engagement.

Joan Shaw, Manager of George Tourism, highlighted that the workshop covered various essential topics, including the application procedures for support, relevant By-Laws for permitting and land use, marketing strategies, cleansing services, facility usage guidelines, noise pollution, legal requirements, and the significance of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), particularly in terms of reporting and financial accountability.

Emphasising the Municipality’s commitment to supporting events, Shaw mentioned, “George Municipality allocates approximately R 1 million annually in support of events. We encouraged delegates to focus on quality over quantity in their applications this year. Considering that only a portion of the applicants would receive support, organisers were advised to meticulously present what sets their event apart, its community benefits, job creation, business opportunities, and the Advertising Value Equivalency (AVE) in media coverage, which enhances the city’s profile nationally and internationally.”

Shaw commended her tourism team for putting together an excellent programme. Following its media appearance, the Garden Route District Municipality expressed interest in participating, specifically to address public health and health inspection units, especially concerning events featuring food stalls. Attendees lauded the city’s approach to events and compliance, engaging in informative debates and posing numerous questions about new regulations. Overall, the positive atmosphere and enthusiasm among participants bode well for receiving excellent applications in the upcoming financial year.

Cleaning teams for the George Municipal Community Services Directorate have cleared a total of 16 380 black bags of refuse in 10 working days after declaring February “Illegal Dumping Month* This past week illegal dump sites were cleared in Parkdene (Ballot Street, Hercules Street, Circular Drive, Golf Street, Scorpio Street, Leo Street, Bosvark Street); Borchards (Bruce Street, Spandiel Street, Garcia Street, PW Botha Blv) and Uniondale (Mitchell Lane, Daniels Lane, Cemetry and Informal Settlement).

Beautifying illegal dump sites 
We urge the community to report illegal dumping sites to the Community Services Directorate for clearing on 044 802 2900. But don’t just report it and wait for the municipality to respond. Get involved in your community. The municipality understands the importance of having the full cooperation of the entire community when it comes to cleanliness. Illegal Dumping sites pose a considerable health risk to all those living in the surrounding areas. The municipality spends important resources on constantly clearing the same sites. Tyres have now been used to beautify certain sites and encourage plant growth to stop the communities from repeatedly dumping at the same place. If you want to get involved in clearing, or beautifying and/or maintaining a site already cleared, please contact us on 044 802 2900.

Report Illegal Dumping
Help the municipality to curb illegal dumping by spreading the news in your community that the dumping of waste is dangerous and a health hazard. Waste should be collected in refuse bags and placed for collection on waste removal days. Builders’ rubble and waste not suitable for bags must be dropped at the municipal refuse site on the R102 (airport road). If you can provide names, vehicle registration details or addresses of alleged perpetrators who have dumped illegally and you are willing to make a statement in this regard, please report it to Law Enforcement at 044 801 6350 or sprins@george.gov.za. You don’t need a photograph of the perpetrator, but it will strengthen the case for a warning or fine to be issued.

Hazardous Waste Open Day 
A hazardous waste open day will be held on 23 February in the parking area of the Outeniqua Stadium from 08h00 to 15h00, to allow for safe disposal of dangerous items. The municipality will take motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid, used antifreeze, paint, paint thinner, turpentine, pesticides or herbicides, household batteries, old TV’s, electronics, tyres, fluorescent tubes, globes, and household medical waste such as needles, old medicine and tablets. The public is requested to bring the items you wish to dispose of in a strong box preferably in their original, labelled containers. Please do not mix the products together. We are unable to take explosives, ammunition, radioactive materials and controlled substances. Enquiries can be made at 044 802 2900.

Hibiscus Street, after clearing and beautification using tyres. 

The George Municipal Community Services Directorate has declared February, Illegal Dumping Month and kicked off on 5 February with a series of clearing and beautifying of illegal dump sites as well as targeted education and awareness around the danger of illegal dumping. Catch our radio discussions around Illegal Dumping on Eden FM today, Monday 12 February at 16h30 and Heartbeat FM on Thursday 15 February at 16h30.

The Touwsranten graveyard; Thembalethu Mayibuye Street, Nelson Mandela Boulevard behind the stadium and Qhawe Street; Lawaaikamp and Borchards (next to Vaal Winkel) and Conville, Fiskaal Street have all been cleared in the first week of February and fixed up. 5 tipper trucks, a JCB, a team of educators and EPWP officials assisted with the cleaning efforts. Households and spaza shops in Parkdene area were visited and pamphlets highlighting the dangers of illegal dumping and how to recycle were handed out in Leo Street, Paradise Street, Buffel Streets and Crane and Polarise Circles.

Further cleanups will take place in Thembalethu, Parkdene, Maraiskamp, Pacaltsdorp, Rosedale, Conville, Rosemoor, Blanco, Touwsranten, Wilderness Heights and Kleinkrantz this month.

We urge the community to report illegal dumping sites to the Community Services Directorate for clearing on 044 802 2900. But don’t just report it and wait for the municipality to respond. Get involved in your community. The municipality understands the importance of having the full cooperation of the entire community when it comes to cleanliness. Illegal Dumping sites pose a considerable health risk to all those living in the surrounding areas. The municipality spends important resources on constantly clearing the same sites. Tyres have now been used to beautify certain sites and encourage plant growth to stop the communities from repeatedly dumping at the same place. If you want to get involved in clearing, or beautifying and/or maintaining a site already cleared, please contact us on 044 802 2900.

Help the municipality to curb illegal dumping by spreading the news in your community that the dumping of waste is dangerous and a health hazard. Waste should be collected in refuse bags and placed for collection on waste removal days. Builders’ rubble and waste not suitable for bags must be dropped at the municipal refuse site on the R102 (airport road). If you can provide names, vehicle registration details or addresses of alleged perpetrators who have dumped illegally and you  are willing to make a statement in this regard, please report it to Law Enforcement at 044 801 6350 or sprins@george.gov.za. You don’t need a photograph of the perpetrator, but it will strengthen the case for a warning or fine to be issued.

A hazardous waste open day will be held on 23 February in the parking area of the Outeniqua Stadium from 08h00 to 15h00, to allow for safe disposal of dangerous items. The municipality will take motor oil, oil filters, brake fluid, used antifreeze, paint, paint thinner, turpentine, pesticides or herbicides, household batteries, old TV’s, electronics, tyres, fluorescent tubes, globes, and household medical waste such as needles, old medicine and tablets. The public is requested to bring the items you wish to dispose of in a strong box preferably in their original, labelled containers. Please do not mix the products together. We are unable to take explosives, ammunition, radioactive materials and controlled substances.  Enquiries can be made at 044 802 2900.

Qhawe Street, Thembalethu before and after clearing.

CAPTIONS: NMU registration 1:GO GEORGE communication champion Akhona Gxumisa explains the bus routes to Mamvemve Makena.  Mamvemve is a BCom Accounting student from Port Elizabeth.

Despite all the excitement of going to university, becoming part of campus life and finding your way in a strange city can be daunting for first-year students. With this in mind, GO GEORGE hosted an information stall at the assisted registration expo at NMU George Campus to provide bus service information to students, parents and staff.

Although the bus routes haven’t reached the campus yet, students make use of the bus service in and around town to get to shopping centres, medical services, places of worship and recreation or sports facilities. Students coming from rural areas or smaller towns with no public bus services were impressed and pleased to learn about the affordable and scheduled services provided by GO GEORGE.

Any new bus users are invited to phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 for information about Smart Card and trip purchases and assistance planning their trip. All the necessary system information such as route maps and timetables are also available to download on the website www.gogeorge.org.za.

NMU registration 2: Yibabathi Vetini (second from left) and Sukude Lwando (far right) are two new IT students from Umthata who were excited to learn about the options offered by the bus service. GO GEORGE communication champions Akhona Gxumisa (far left) and Zanele Matiwana enjoyed engaging with the excited new students.

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GO GEORGE-dienste aan nuwe studente bekendgestel

Ten spyte van al die opwinding om universiteit toe te gaan, om deel te word van die kampuslewe en om jou pad in ‘n vreemde stad te vind, kan die ondervinding vir eerstejaarstudente oorweldigend wees. Met die oog hierop het GO GEORGE ‘n inligtingstalletjie by die registrasiebystand-ekspo op die NMU George-kampus aangebied om busdiensinligting aan studente, ouers en personeel te verskaf.

Hoewel die busroetes nog nie die kampus bereik het nie, maak studente van die busdiens in en om die dorp gebruik om by winkelsentrums, mediese dienste, plekke van aanbidding en ontspanning of sportgeriewe uit te kom. Studente wat uit landelike gebiede of kleiner dorpe sonder openbare busdienste kom, was beïndruk en bly om te hoor van die bekostigbare en geskeduleerde dienste wat deur GO GEORGE gelewer word.

Enige nuwe busgebruikers word genooi om die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel vir inligting oor Slimkaart- en ritaankope en hulp met die beplanning van hul ritte. Al die nodige stelselinligting soos roetekaarte en tydroosters is ook beskikbaar vir aflaai op die webwerf www.gogeorge.org.za.

NMU registrasie 1: GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeampte Akhona Gxumisa verduidelik die busroetes aan Mamvemve Makena.  Mamvemve is ‘n BCom Rek-student van Port Elizabeth.

NMU registrasie 2: Yibabathi Vetini (tweede van links) en Sukude Lwando (heel regs) is twee nuwe IT-studente van Umthata wat opgewonde was om meer te wete te kom oor die opsies wat die busdiens bied. GO GEORGE- passasiersdiensbeamptes Akhona Gxumisa (heel links) en Zanele Matiwana het dit geniet om met die opgewonde nu

George Municipality welcomes Ms. Lauren Josias as the newly appointed Environmental Officer, beginning her tenure on 1 February 2024.

Coming from a robust background in the private sector, Lauren has been involved in project development for accessing funds from the Global Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility for climate change adaptation projects in least developed and developing countries, as well as small island developing states.

Her experience extends to the public sector, serving as an environmental officer for a local municipality in the Western Cape. In this capacity, she managed various responsibilities including the administration of the Outeniqua Sensitive Coastal Area Extension Regulations, coastal management, pollution control and environmental planning.

Lauren holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management from Stellenbosch University and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree. Her research is focused on ecosystem service valuation under the total economic value framework. Complementing her academic achievements, she holds a BTech in Environment Management.

In her role at George Municipality, Lauren is committed to upholding the municipality’s environmental mandates and contributing to its strategic objective of achieving environmental sustainability. Her passion lies in mainstreaming climate adaptation and mitigation efforts into urban planning and agricultural development.

With pride, confidence, and a dedicated spirit of learning, Lauren looks forward to serving the communities of the City of George, Wilderness, and Uniondale.

Ald Leon van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George

In preparation for the National and Provincial Elections to be held later this year, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) held its second voter registration weekend on 3 and 4 February 2024 to enable citizens to register for these important elections. We are grateful that many hundreds of voters arrived to register. Many of these are citizens who have recently relocated to George from other parts of South Africa.

There appears to be a noticeable and welcoming shift among citizens towards an appreciation that the voters can and will determine the policy direction and pathway to success for our country. The almost daily reports and experiences of the ongoing crumbling of state capacity and infrastructure should be a clear signal to all citizens to pay greater attention to the crisis that we are facing.

In a recent article in Business Day, Jabulani Sikhakhane (a previous spokesperson of the National Treasury) lamented that the City of Johannesburg is collapsing with neither a plan nor any intent to save it. He wrote that SA’s largest city has now become a symbol of the country’s economic stagnation and decline. The city’s administrative and technical capacity to manage its affairs has been declining markedly for at least the past decade. The political will is also lacking. Infrastructure projects cannot be implemented without this capacity as well as political will.

Ricardo Hausmann, the director of Harvard’s Growth Lab (who has written the Growth with Inclusion report on SA) has said in a recent interview that other countries in the world have also experienced collapses in their electricity systems, but in each case, the private sector was permitted to provide solutions which they did within 3-5 years. South Africa is the only country where the government has impeded solutions for 15 years.

Our municipality is increasingly dealing on an ongoing basis with blockages and hurdles to finding solutions to a whole range of issues that negatively impact our efforts to plan and implement decisions to foster George’s growth and improvements for the well-being of citizens. Earlier this week, our municipal manager spoke at a high-level municipal finance conference in Johannesburg where she outlined impediments to our efforts to provide alternative energy for George.

The semi-grants to the Western Cape have recognised the efforts being undertaken by many municipalities in the province to strive for good service delivery in contrast to their experiences elsewhere. The work being undertaken by our municipal officials and councillors in their governance role is therefore critical as we chart our way forward to clear the legislative and red tape hurdles delaying our ability to implement progress.

It is refreshing to note that councillors regularly report back on situations where they believe that our response times in addressing complaints and faults are not at the expected standard. This dedication and desire to ensure that high standards are maintained is admirable.

However, it is important too for citizens to recognise the difference between constantly striving for excellence and what happens when that will, and determination do not exist (and we thank all those citizens who express their appreciation). It is this message that needs to be understood and shared by voters if we are to return the country to policies that encourage and drive economic growth, employment, and an improvement in the quality of life.

Alderman Leon van Wyk
Executive Mayor of George

George 35 000 l tanker in Overstrand

George Municipality Fire Services arrived in Overstrand late last night with a major pumper engine, tanker, our 35 000l water tanker and a skid unit BP1 land cruiser to assist in ongoing firefighting efforts that have led to residents evacuations in Pringle Bay. The unpredictable wind has meant that the area could have another two days of possible fires. There are currently four active fire lines in the area.

Early Morning Overstrand

The George team led by Station Commander Santa Sternsdorff include Firefighters, Johan Troskie, Brad Bussack, Louis Julies, Wilton Oktober, Jaendre Bernardo and Junior Firefighter Kenny Johnson. They are in attendance today at Skilpad klip with the weather in their favour and have managed to extinguish the line allocated to them. The team will move to Pringle Bay as soon as they have completed mopping operations. Chief Fire Officer Neels Barnard praised his crew for their willingness to assist.

Skilpad Klip Overstrand

Ald Leon Van Wyk noted that the spirit of co-operation with our fellow municipalities is something that George Municipality prides itself on. He wished all of the George Firefighters well and to take care of themselves.