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Author: Chantel Edwards

WEATHER AND ROAD UPDATE – 14 JUNE – 07h45

Motor Vehicle Accident at Garden Route Mall Traffic Intersection. Three vehicles involved. One lane direction CBD is closed.

Outeniqua Pass – Cleared 07h45

Arbour road closed completely from Camphersdrift Road. Estimated time 35 min. Please use alternative road.

Strawberry Farm R404 – services still busy with clearing.

21 Charles Street, Camphersdrift – services still busy with clearing.

CJ Langenhoven – road clear no obstructions found.

Seven Passes Road – tree obstructing roadway. Garden Route Fire attending.

Kindly report fallen trees and/or obstructed roads to George Emergency Services 044 8016300

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Motor Vehicle Accident at Garden Route Mall Traffic Intersection. Three vehicles involved. One lane direction CBD is closed.

Outeniqua Pass – Fir Tree has fallen, blocking one lane in direction George – Emergency Services are addressing

Arbour Road – large tree has fallen creating traffic congestion in northerly direction – motorists to please use alternative route.

Courtney Street – Cleared
Mission Street – Cleared
Touwsranten – Cleared
Carmel Guest House – Cleared
Victoria Bay – Cleared
Blanco Bridge, Fancourt – Cleared
Meent Street, Heather park – Cleared
Davidson Road/ Arbour Way electrical pole fell. Cables have been made safe and cleared

Strawberry Farm R404 – services still busy with clearing.

21 Charles Street, Camphersdrift – services still busy with clearing.

CJ Langenhoven – investigating report of fallen tree.

Seven Passes Road – tree obstructing roadway. Garden Route Fire attending.

Kindly report fallen trees and/or obstructed roads to George Emergency Services 044 8016300
Motorists advised to travel with caution due to current weather conditions.

 

_____________________________________________________________

Touwsranten – tree on car, still being cleared.
Mission Street – tree down being attended to.

R102/Strawberry Farm/Blanco Bridge – investigating reports of fallen trees.
Meent Street, Heather Park – investigating report of fallen tree.

Victoria Bay – tree down, cleared.
Courtenay Street – cleared
Outeniqua Pass – cleared

Kindly report fallen trees and/or obstructed roads to George Emergency Services 044 8016300
Motorists advised to travel with caution due to current weather conditions.

Issued George Municipality

POWER OUTAGES DUE TO MV FAULTS – 14 JUNE @ 05h40

Unplanned outage MV faults – areas affected:
Wilderness Heights
Witfontein
De Swart Line
Modderivier Line 1 x customer
FM Tower
North Line (no access)

Resources are evaluating damage, and proceed with repairs from 08h00. Please note with anticipated poor weather repairs will be delayed.

Kindly report power outages to:
044 801 9222 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 9202/9258 (07h45 – 16h30)
WhatsApp Number 067 350 3295 (07h45 – 16h30)
Uniondale: 044 752 1024 (7.45am-4.30pm)

Emergency /After Hours 044 801 6300

COMMENT DATE EXTENDED – New Development Charges Policy relating to land development applications

George Municipality has developed a new policy which sets out the development charges a developer will be required to pay and which are calculated based on the anticipated external infrastructure requirements of the proposed development. The policy is intended to ensure that developers contribute their fair share towards the cost of providing municipal engineering services infrastructure.

By charging developers development charges, municipalities can generate revenue to finance the installation and maintenance of infrastructure needed to support growing needs. This ensures that the costs of infrastructure are shared by developers who will benefit from the infrastructure. In turn, developers benefit from the provision of reliable and adequate infrastructure, which enhances the attractiveness of the development to potential buyers or tenants. This results in a win-win situation for both municipalities and developers, and ultimately contributes to the sustainable and resilient growth of the local economy.

The new Development Charges Policy as proposed by George Municipality is an important tool to provide economic infrastructure and to ensure sustainable infrastructure investment in all the required engineering services. It provides the key details of the development charges for engineering services, covering water, roads, stormwater, sewerage, solid waste and electricity.

Public Participation
As previously advertised in the George Herold of 18 May 2023 and 25 May 2023

Please note that the above-mentioned public participation has been extended from 12 June 2023 to on or before 19 June 2023.

Written comments for the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged in writing to the Deputy Director: Legal and Compliance, Ms Müller, at the Municipal Court, 71 York Street, George, 6529; or via email with subject line “Comment on Development Charges Policy 2023” to mamulller@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za.

Persons who are unable to write or read can submit their inputs verbally at the Municipal Court, 71 York Street, George, 6529, where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Ms Isabelle du Plessis (044 -801 9082). Late submissions will not be considered.

Please follow this link to access the new draft policy https://www.george.gov.za/george-document/gm-draft-development-charges-policy-2023/

Issued on behalf of George Municipal Legal Department, Office

NOTICE NR. BA029/2023 – Extension of Comment Date

PUBLIC NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 21 OF THE MUNICIPAL SYSTEMS ACT,
ACT 32 OF 2000

As advertised in the George Herold of 18 May 2023 and 25 May 2023.

PROPOSED DRAFT POLICY OF: DEVELOPMENT CHARGES (DC) POLICY
The George Municipality hereby gives notice in terms of Section 21 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act (No. 32 of 2000), as amended, of its intention to approve the Draft Development Charges (DC) Policy.
Proper motivated comments and/or representations in respect of the above Policy must be lodged in writing to the Deputy Director: Legal and Compliance Services, George Municipality, Municipal Court, 71 York Street, George, Legal and Compliance Offices.

Please note that the above-mentioned public participation has been extended from 12 June 2023 to on or before 19 June 2023. Late submissions will not be considered.

Alternatively, comments, objections or representations may be sent via email to Ms Marí Müller at mamuller@george.gov.za. The Policy will be displayed on our website at: www.george.gov.za.

Persons who are unable to read or write, may submit their properly motivated comments, objections and/or representations verbally at the George Municipality, Municipal Court, 71 York Street, George, Legal and Compliance Offices, where they will be assisted during office hours by Mrs Isabelle Du Plessis, to transcribe their comments, and/or representations in writing.

Please follow this link to access the new draft policy https://www.george.gov.za/george-document/gm-draft-development-charges-policy-2023/

PUBLIC NOTICE: Emergency Municipal Loadshedding Relief Grant May 2023 Update

The Western Cape Provincial government has authorised a sum total of R88.185 million rand from the Provincial Unforeseen and Unavoidable Reserve Fund to assist municipalities with the unforeseen and immediate impact of prolonged load-shedding on water and wastewater services. In terms of this allocated Funding, George Municipality has received the sum of R14 220 000 (VAT included) as a contribution toward the purchase and installation of back-up energy supply. This back-up supply can include generators, renewable power sources, batteries and all ancillary costs associated with the installation thereof for example, switch gear, safe keeping, caging etc. for water and wastewater infrastructure.

This grant funding will assist the George Municipality in ensuring a healthy environment and to continue with the provision of basic services to our citizens and businesses during the current load-shedding.

The municipality is in process of purchasing emergency diesel generators that will be placed strategically as follows:
Water Treatment Works
Haarlem WTW (+_ 150kVA diesel generator)
Uniondale WTW (+- 200kVA diesel generator)

Wastewater Treatment Works
Uniondale WWTW (+_ 200 kVA diesel generator)
Kleinkrantz WWTW (+_ 300 kVA diesel generator)
Outeniqua WWTW (+_ 1000 kVA diesel generator)

Progress to Date:
A Professional Engineering Consultant was appointed to assist the George Municipality with the design, procurement, and implementation of the backup generator units.  The municipality has to date (May 2023) completed the procurement of the contractors required to construct the Generators required for Haarlem and Uniondale water treatment facilities; and Uniondale and Kleinkrantz wastewater treatment facilities.   Due to the size of the Outeniqua wastewater treatment facility`s backup generator a separate procurement process had to be followed and is underway.

It is furthermore to be noted that generator equipment in general is a long lead item, and therefore the delivery times associated therewith are very much dependent on the stock availability on same.    In this regard the major risk foreseen at this stage is a delay in timeous completion of the project because of the knock-on effect due external factors affecting and delaying the delivery time of equipment, i.e., shipping of imported components, strikes / shutdowns, etc, as well as any delay in the Outeniqua WWTW generator tender process.  In summary, the overall project progress is as follow:

Procurement Phase:     
Appointment of Consultant (Complete) – 100%

Appointment of Contractor:    
Haarlem WTW (Complete) – 100%
Uniondale WTW (Complete) – 100%
Uniondale WWTW (Complete) – 100%
Kleinkrantz WWTW (Complete) – 100%
Outeniqua WWTW (In Progress) – 40%

Construction Phase:      
Haarlem WTW (± 125 kVA diesel generator) – 20%
Uniondale WTW (± 125 kVA diesel generator) – 20%
Uniondale WWTW (± 200 kVA diesel generator) – 20%
Kleinkrantz WWTW (± 300 kVA diesel generator) – 20%
Outeniqua WWTW (± 1 000 kVA + 650 kVA diesel generator) – 0%

The total project expenditure to date (as on end of May 2023) is approximately 6,4% of the current funding allocation.

Other Load Shedding Initiatives Implemented by George Municipality
George Municipality has out of necessity already installed large generators at 30 Sewer Pump Stations and 5 at Water Treatment Works at a cost of approximately R52 million, in order to keep water flowing and sewerage pumpstations operational during loadshedding.  A further 8 are in process of being procured at a cost of approximately R27 million rand and which includes the two 1250kVa for the Garden Route Dam.  The costs of running these generators are exorbitant and currently totals approximately R148 000 per day in fuel alone at Stage 4, with the fuel costs even higher when Stage 5 and 6 are implemented.

Battery energy storage is planned for all the Water and Waste-Water Treatment Plants as well as the Sewer Pump stations in order to reduce the diesel costs. The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) deployment is being fast-tracked to save costs over the long run. The intention is to deploy BESS of more than 100MWh for the city using a phased-in approach. The city is currently in the process of feasibility studies for the BESS deployment, to assess the technical, environmental, economic and practical feasibility for installation and integration into the distribution network. These studies will further inform the city on the deployment strategy to undertake as it strives to reduce reliance from Eskom.

Link to further information on how George Municipality is trying to mitigate the impact of load-shedding for George. https://www.george.gov.za/what-is-george-municipality-doing-to-alleviate-eskom-loadshedding-and-other-renewable-energy-projects/

My Smart City App Goes Live 1 June 2023

Our new citizen App – My Smart City goes live tomorrow 1 June 2023. The App is already available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or via the My Smart City website (mysmart.city).

Stay informed
The My Smart City – George  App gives residents access to the George social feeds which will allow subscribers to engage and share current affairs within their communities as well as extract information around power outages, load shedding schedules, water outages, road closures, and stay updated with community alerts specific to the area they live in.

Logging faults
The My Smart City – George app will act as a conduit for the resolution of service delivery issues – your issues are escalated to the George Municipality and captured within our internal fault logging system which provides a reference number and feedback to you, the resident, via the App, allowing you to track your fault without contacting a call centre.

Simplifying Service Delivery

  • Log municipal faults.
  • Receive local alerts and notifications.
  • Chat to an Agent during office hours:
  • Access and pay your municipal bill; (NEW)
  • Submit self-read meter readings;  (NEW)
  • Have the opportunity to complete Customer Satisfaction Surveys; (NEW)
  • and let you contribute to the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) without needing to attend meetings; (NEW)
  • and gives you Access to Business listings for George and surrounds.(NEW)

With the official launch tomorrow 1 June 2023 , not all of the above functions will be available immediately,  but the municipality will announce each new service as it becomes available. George Municipality has partnered with My Smart City to bring a tailored one-stop solution to your service delivery needs.

The effectiveness of the My Smart City – George App will be determined by residents subscribing and then using the many existing and new features to make communicating and transacting with the municipality easier. It is hoped that residents will embrace the new technology to make their lives easier and to make the municipality more efficient.

Existing subscribers of the George Municipal App have been notified on the existing App about the termination date of 31 May 2023. Your logged faults remain in our system for addressing, but please log any new faults from 1 June 2023 via the new APP only. Please  install the new My Smart City – George App to allow for a seamless transition. Follow the video links below for step-by-step instructions on how to install OR scan the QR Code on your current municipal statement to access OR download via the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.    

Follow this link to a video on the launch of the APP and its capabilities https://youtu.be/gKrS9HFsha0
Follow this link for a step-by-step tutorial on how to install the My Smart City – George APP on your cell phone! https://youtu.be/R8Y6jjcr7DY


 Executive Mayor Leon Van Wyk seen here with the project manager for the APP, Gerard Goliath Deputy Director: Expenditure and SCM, Finance Directorate was thrilled to download the new My Smart City App to his cellphone. “George continues to proactively explore smart city interventions as a means of overcoming the rising challenges of urban development and sustainability, becoming more resilient, innovative and creative. The new functionality offered and potentially available via My Smart City is a step in the right direction for George.”

Media Statement: George Municipality responds on allegations made by Gardag

George Municipality takes note of the duplicity of Gardag in attempting  to relate the Cholera infections experienced in Tshwane, Hammanskraal  to the water quality available in George. Cholera is most likely to occur and spread in places with inadequate water treatment, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene.  George Municipalities water quality is of an excellent standard with all of the parameters complying with SANS 0241 standards for drinking water.

The George Municipality publishes information on the quality of drinking water supplied to consumers as recommended by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) .  The Drinking Water Quality will going forward be reported on the George Municipal website on a quarterly basis and to DWS on their IRIS system on a monthly basis, as part of the Blue Drop Compliance programme. Samples of raw water at both the old and new water treatment facilities are taken once a week.  Samples of the final treated water at the treatment facilities are taken twice a week.  Strategic sample points in the water distribution network and reservoirs are also monitored by the George Municipal Laboratory.  Different bacteriological, chemical and physical parameters are measured and monitored.

With reference to the two spillage incidents as reported on by GARDAG:

On 1 May 2023, Pump set No 1 tripped out at the Eden Sewer pump station.  On 24 May 2023, during scheduled loadshedding, the backup electrical generator at the pump station had a mechanical failure. In both instances this was picked up through the telemetry and SCADA early warning systems. Tanker suction and mobile pump services were obtained to control the situation while remedial measures were implemented.  As per protocol George Municipality notifies the Department of Water Services, the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, the Garden Route District Municipality and the Breede-Gourits Catchment Management Agency of all spillages. The Eden Pump Station is still under upgrade and the next phase will start soon.

George Municipality recently received an Emergency Load Shedding Relief Grant to assist with the ongoing load-shedding crisis.  Backup power generating units have been installed at our critical sewer pump stations along water courses and at our water and wastewater treatment facilities as from 2022 and others remain in progress.

George Municipality is aware of continued concerns pertaining to the proposed development at the Garden Route Dam after Interested and Affected Parties (IAP) were all informed of the decision by the Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (DEADP) to grant the Environmental Authorisation on 19 September 2022. In these communications full details were provided for the reasons for the decision, as well as information pertaining to the right to appeal the decision.

 

PUBLIC NOTICE COM17/2023_ Submission of Comments Requested_Waste Disposal Agreement btw George Municipality and GRDM

NOTICE IN TERMS OF SECTION 33 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT: MUNICIPAL FINANCE MANAGEMENT ACT, NO. 56 OF 2003
|WASTE DISPOSAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GEORGE MUNICIPALITY AND THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY

Notice is hereby given in terms of section 33 of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, No. 56 of 2003 that George Municipality (“the Municipality”) intends entering into a waste disposal agreement with the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) for disposal of waste at the GRDM Regional Waste Disposal Facility, for a period of ten (10) years from effective date. The waste disposal agreement will impose financial obligations on the Municipality for a period longer than three (3) years covered in the annual budget for the 2023/2024 financial year.

Notice is further given in accordance with section 21 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, No 32 of 2000 that:

  1. The local community and other interested parties are invited to submit comments or representations to the Municipality in respect of the proposed contract-. Such comments or representations must reach the Municipality by 26 June 2023, via electronic mail on the email address or delivered by mail to the address details provided hereunder.
  2. Copies of the draft waste disposal agreement and information statement related to this agreement and the Municipality’s obligations in terms of the waste disposal agreement are available for inspection at the location listed below and will also be accessible on the Municipality’s website on george.gov.za and  may be viewed during office hours at the Community Services Directorate, 82 Meade Street, George.

SUBMISSIONS MUST BE MARKED AS: REGIONAL LANDFILL SITE WASTE DISPOSAL AGREEMENT: SECTION 33 PROCESS
Further details for clarity may be requested via email to Mr Sivuyile Mtila on smtila@george.gov.za or on telephone number (044) 802-2900.

Persons who are physically disabled or unable to write but need to participate in the process may submit their properly marked comments and/or representation verbally at the Office of the Community Services Directorate in Meade Street above, where they will be assisted during office hours by Mr Sivuyile Mtila, to transcribe their comments and/or representation.

AUCTION: REDUNDANT/WORN-OUT MATERIALS AND VEHICLES

NOTICE NR. FIN013/2023
A public auction of redundant/worn-out materials and vehicles will be held on Wednesday, 31 May 2023 at 10:00 at the Main Hall, Civic Centre, York Street, George.
Further information is available at the Office of the Director Financial Services.
(Mr R Roos at telephone number 044- 801 9039).

Read the latest GM Newsletter – Volume 65 May 2023

Read the latest GM Newsletter – Volume 65 May 2023 follow the link below for details on the current status of:
POWER LIMIT ADJUSTMENT PROJECT- Phase 3 Rollout / KRAGBEPERKINGSAANPASSINGSPROJEK – Fase 3 Uitvoering / IPROJEKTHI YOLUNGISO LOKULINGANISELWA KWAMANDLA – UKUQALISWA KWESIGABA SESITHATHU

https://www.george.gov.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/FINAL-GM-NEWSLETTER-VOLUME-65-MAY-2023.pdf

 

 MEDIA STATEMENT: George Municipality confirms SAMWU strike will not take place  

George Municipality confirms that an interim interdict has been granted on SAMWU’s intended Strike Action for 24 May 2023. The municipality expects service delivery to continue with no disruptions.
George Municipality as the employer remains committed to following due process and engaging in discussion with SAMWU to resolve their issues.

 The municipality remains open on Wednesday 24 May 2023, and municipal service delivery/essential services will continue.

 SWITCHBOARD: 044 801 9111 (7.45am-4.30pm)
AFTER HOURS AND EMERGENCIES: 044 801 6300
FIRE EMERGENCIES: 044 801 6311

ESKOM LOADSHEDDING – 21 MAY 2023

Stage 4 loadshedding will be implemented from 16:00 this afternoon until 05:00 on Monday. Thereafter, Stage 3 loadshedding will be implemented from 05:00 until 16:00 on Monday, followed by Stage 5 loadshedding from 16:00 until 05:00 on Tuesday. This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice.

George will be affected as follows:
Sunday 21/05/2023
20:00 – 22:30

Monday 22/05/2023
04:00 – 06:30
12:00 – 14:30
20:00 – 00:30 **

Tuesday 23/05/2023
04:00 – 05:00
12:00 – 14:30
20:00 – 22:30

Wednesday 24/05/2023
04:00 – 06:30
20:00 – 22:30

Thursday 25/05/2023
02:00 – 04:30
10:00 – 12:30
18:00 – 20:30

Friday 26/05/2023
02:00 – 04:30
10:00 – 12:30
18:00 – 22:30 **

Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Sunday 21/05/2023
15:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30

Monday 22/05/2023
07:00 – 09:30
15:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30 **

Tuesday 23/05/2023
01:00 – 03:40 **
15:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30

Wednesday 24/05/2023
07:00 – 09:30
16:00 – 17:30
23:00 – 01:30

Thursday 25/05/2023
05:00 – 07:30
13:00 – 15:30
16:00 – 17:30
21:00 – 23:30

Friday 26/05/2023
05:00 – 07:30
13:00 – 15:30
21:00 – 01:30 **

Consumers are reminded to use electricity sparingly after power returns especially after a 4-hour Loadshedding slot.

Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load shedding. Consumers are urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network and reduce our current high MVA spikes.

Reporting power outages
Please do not phone the afterhours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after load shedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on and wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The directorate will be aware if there has been a possible substation trip which needs to be sorted out.

Receive Eskom loadshedding notifications by downloading the free EskomSePush app from Google Play Store at https://sepush.co.za/

MEDIA STATEMENT: George Municipality response to proposed SAMWU Strike

George Municipality notes a media statement issued by SAMWU on 17 May 2023, with regard to a strike due to start on the 24 May 2023 and confirms receiving a notice to strike in terms of the Gatherings Act based on a Strike Certificate issued 6 March 2023.

George Municipality would like to assure all residents of George that we are addressing the matter at hand to avoid a strike and will endeavour to ensure that all contingency plans are in place to ensure that service delivery continues. We apologize to residents in advance for matters which remain out of our control.

Unfortunately, SAMWU has consistently evaded all attempts dating back to 13 September 2022 to discuss their alleged issues at legislated monthly Local Labour Forums and other meetings as requested by the employer as well as removing themselves from a conciliation meeting held on 20 January 2023. The employer has resorted to written responses being sent to SAMWU on matters raised. George Municipality as the employer remains committed to following due process and engaging in discussion with SAMWU to resolve their issues.

The municipality remains open on Wednesday 24 May 2023, and municipal service delivery/essential services will continue.

SWITCHBOARD: 044 801 9111 (7.45am-4.30pm)
AFTER HOURS AND EMERGENCIES: 044 801 6300
FIRE EMERGENCIES: 044 801 6311

PUBLIC NOTICE: Emergency Municipal Loadshedding Relief Grant APRIL 2023 Update

The Western Cape Provincial government has authorised a sum total of R88.185 million rand from the Provincial Unforeseen and Unavoidable Reserve Fund to assist municipalities with the unforeseen and immediate impact of prolonged load-shedding on water and wastewater services.

In terms of this allocated Funding, George Municipality has received the sum of R14 220 000 (VAT included) as a contribution toward the purchase and installation of back-up energy supply. This back-up supply can include generators, renewable power sources, batteries and all ancillary costs associated with the installation thereof for example,  switch gear, safe keeping, caging etc. for water and wastewater infrastructure.

This grant funding will assist the George Municipality in ensuring a healthy environment and to continue with the provision of basic services to our citizens and businesses during the current load-shedding.
The municipality is in process of purchasing emergency diesel generators that will be placed strategically as follows:

Water Treatment Works
Haarlem WTW  (+_ 150kVA diesel generator)
Uniondale WTW (+- 200kVA diesel generator)

Waste Water Treatment Works
Uniondale WWTW (+_ 200 kVA diesel generator)
Kleinkrantz WWTW (+_ 300 kVA diesel generator)
Outeniqua WWTW (+_ 1000 kVA diesel generator)

The municipality has to date (April 2023) completed the procurement of the contractors required to construct the Generators required for Haarlem and Uniondale water treatment facilities; and Uniondale and Kleinkrantz waste water treatment facilities.   Due to the size of the Outeniqua wastewater treatment facility`s backup generator a separate procurement process had to be followed and is underway.  A Professional Engineering Consultant was appointed to assist the George Municipality with the design, procurement and implementation of the backup generator units.

George Municipality has out of necessity already installed large generators at 30 Sewer Pump Stations and 5 at Water Treatment Works  at a cost of approximately R52 million, in order to keep water flowing and sewerage pumpstations operational during loadshedding.  A further 8 are in process of being procured at a cost of approximately R27 million rand and which includes the two 1250kVa for the Garden Route Dam.  The costs of running these generators are exorbitant and currently totals approximately R148 000 per day in fuel alone at Stage 4, with the fuel costs even higher when Stage 5 and 6 are implemented.

Link to further information on how George Municipality is trying to mitigate the impact of load-shedding for George. https://www.george.gov.za/what-is-george-municipality-doing-to-alleviate-eskom-loadshedding-and-other-renewable-energy-projects/

Reminder – New Smart City App is on it’s way for George

Current subscribers of the George Municipal App will be notified on the existing App when the current service will be terminated and we ask that you install the new My Smart City – George App to allow for a seamless transition. Details will be provided on how to access the My Smart City-George App and the QR Code will be available on your monthly statements!

The GO LIVE DATE will be communicated – keep an eye on our social media channels for updates.

Public Notice: Update on George Municipal By-laws Review

George Municipality has since last year reviewed a number of existing and/or drafted new by-laws for a number of directorates. The by-laws allow for an individual municipality to regulate the affairs and the services it provides within its area of jurisdiction. The details of by-laws can differ from one municipality to another, and the public is always advised to check their local municipal by-laws which can be found on the relevant municipal website www.george.gov.za.

Public Participation
All of the By-laws have been workshopped with Council to provide all Councillors an opportunity for inputs. A public participation process is then followed which allows members of the public to provide their comments and input. Once the input has been received from the public and addressed, the final by-law then goes back to Council for approval. A municipal by-law may be enforced only after it has been published in the official gazette of the Western Cape Province on request of the local municipality. The promulgated by-law is then uploaded to the municipal website for easy access by the public. Transgression of a by -law is treated the same as a normal law, if you break a by-law, you can be fined or prosecuted. Most transgressions are handled in the George Municipal Court.

STATUS OF BY-LAWS BEING REVIEWED
CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
NEW Public Transport, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places By-law, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Water and Sanitation Services By-law, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
NEW Stormwater By-law, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Water Services By-law (Restrict the use of Water), Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023

https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/civil-engineering-services/
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged: via mail to reach the Director: Civil Engineering Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023 ; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to CES By-laws ” to gvanniekerk@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za
Any person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Jannie Koegelenberg (044 801 9278 ).

FINANCIAL SERVICES
Customer Care, Credit Control and Debt Collection By-law, Financial Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Tariff By-law, Financial Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Rates By-law, Financial Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023

https://www.george.gov.za/finance-cat/bylaws-and-regulations/finance-bylaws-and-regualtions/
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for FINANCIAL SERVICES
Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at: via mail to Director: Financial Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Financial By-Laws, 2023” to rcoetzee@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za
Any persons who are unable to read or write but wish to participate in the process will be assisted during office hours by appointment with Mr. Renaldo Coetzee at the George Municipality Main Offices, to transcribe their comments / representations. Appointments can be made via telephone at (044) 801 9122.

ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES
Electricity Supply By-law, Electrotechnical Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023

https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/electrotechnical-services/
*PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES *
Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at:  via mail to reach Mr Edward Nqumse: Electrotechnical Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Electricity By-laws” to ennqumse@george.gov.za and njikija@george.gov.za as well as copied to post@george.gov.za
Any person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Edward Nqumse (044- 8019218).

COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SERVICES (Cleansing, Parks and Recreation, Environmental, Sport)
Cemeteries and Crematoria By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Public Amenities By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Air Quality Management By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Public Nuisances By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Integrated Waste Management By-law, Community Services Directorate – Gazetted 2022
Sporting Facilities By-law, Community Services Directorate – Gazetted 2022

https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/community-services/
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SERVICES
Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at:  via mail to reach Mr Sivuyile Mtila, Community Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Community Services By-laws” to smtila@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za
Any person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Sivuyile Mtila  (044- 802 2900).

COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SAFETY SERVICES (Disaster Management Services, Law Enforcement, Traffic Services)
Impounding of Animals By-law, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Keeping of dogs, cats and other animals By-law, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Liquor Trading By-laws, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
Community Fire Safety By-law, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023
NEW Remotely Piloted Aircraft By-Law – Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023

https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/protection-services/
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SAFETY SERVICES
Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at:  via mail to reach Ms Lee-Anne Meiring, Community Safety, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Community Safety By-laws” to lmeiring@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za
Any person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Ms Lee-Anne Meiring (044- 801 6350).

HUMAN SETTLEMENTS, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DIRECTORATE
https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/protection-services/

NEW Building Control By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Open for comment until 12 May 2023
Comments and inputs can be emailed to, Fickerie Toyer phoned in to 044 801 9111 or submitted in person at the George Municipality Ground Floor ,71 York Street, George ,6530. Enquiries to Fickerie Toyer ftoyer@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za

Outdoor Advertising By-law,  Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Open for comment until 12 May 2023
Comments and inputs can be emailed to, Fickerie Toyer phoned in to 044 801 9111 or submitted in person at the George Municipality Ground Floor ,71 York Street, George ,6530. Enquiries to Fickerie Toyer ftoyer@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za

Zoning Scheme By-law,  Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Open for Comment until 05 June 2023
Comments and inputs can be emailed to, kmeyer@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za phoned in to 044 801 9435 or submitted in person at the George Municipality, 5th Floor, 71 York Street, George, 6530.

Informal Trading By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Open for comment until 05 June 2023
Comments and inputs can be emailed to, khaarhoff@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za  phoned in to 044 801 9148 or submitted in person at the George Municipality Ground Floor ,71 York Street, George ,6530

NEW Unlawful Land Occupation By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Comments Closed 20 April 2023
NEW Problem Premises By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Gazetted December 2022
NEW Special Ratings Area By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Gazetted April 2023
Land Use Planning By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate   – Gazetted March 2023
Property By-law , Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate   – Gazetted 2022

 

 Civil Engineering Services addresses Water Services, Water and Sanitation By-laws and a new Public Transport By-Law

DRAFT WATER SERVICES BY-LAW TO RESTRICT THE USE OF WATER

The purpose of the Water Restrictions by-law is to regulate and restrict the use of potable water in the George Municipal Area.  South Africa’s status as a water-scarce country is reflected in the formulation of our legislative framework pertaining to water. This legislation has placed emphasis on water scarcity and the effective management of national resources coupled with the need to rectify historical inequalities and promote justice and equity in the availability and use of water resources.

The three principal sources of national water legislation are the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996, the National Water Act 36 of 1998 and the Water Services Act 108 of 1997. The executive power to deliver water services falls, in terms of the Constitution, on local government. The statutory legislative framework for effective management of local government consists of the Local Government: Municipal Structures Act 117 of 1998, the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 and the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.

The Water Restriction by-law provides a mechanism for the George Municipality to secure, control, manage and protect our highly valued water resources.  Minor amendments were made and the By-law deals with the restriction of the supply of water services under certain circumstances, measures for the promotion of water conservation and the procedure to institute such restrictions. One of the Water Restriction “triggers” is linked to dam levels and other raw water resources in terms of the Drought Management Policy that is currently under review (as part of the Bulk Raw Water Resources Study update/review). This policy allows the introduction of water restrictions for any number of valid reasons. The Tariff Policy will also be amended in 2023/24 to remove any reference to a specific cause as related to the Emergency Tariffs.

 

DRAFT WATER AND SANITATION BY-LAW
The purpose of the Water and Sanitation bylaws are to regulate the provision of water and sanitation services in the area of jurisdiction of the George Municipality and to provide for matters connected therewith.  South Africa’s status as a water-scarce country is reflected in the formulation of our legislative framework pertaining to water. This legislation has placed emphasis on water scarcity and the effective management of national resources coupled with the need to rectify historic inequalities and promote justice and equity in the availability and use of water resources. The executive power to deliver water and sanitation services falls, in terms of the Constitution, on local government.

The Water and Sanitation by-law provides a mechanism for the George Municipality to secure, control and manage water and sanitation services within the sphere of local government as highlighted above.  Some of the improvements entail the following:

The amended by-law makes provision for improved water quality control and will ensure that potable water distributed for consumption will comply with the standards as prescribed in SANS 0241. The amended by-law also allows for the testing of defective water meters. If a consumer has reason to believe that a water meter is defective, he or she may apply in writing to the Municipality to have the meter tested free of charge. Many more improvements on the existing water and sanitation bylaw were made by officials and representatives of the George Municipality.

NEW DRAFT PUBLIC TRANSPORT BY-LAW
The Public Transport By-Law is an important new addition to Council’s By-Laws which sets out to better regulate and manage matters related to all modes of public transport, including minibus taxis and buses. The by-Law deals with matters such as the use of public transport infrastructure, controlled facilities, administrative matters, as well as conditions related to the behaviour of both passengers and public transport operators and drivers. This by-Law also greatly strengthens the enforcement framework within which traffic and law enforcement officers can effectively ensure the safety and security of public transport passengers and road users alike.

The principles and objectives of this By-law are to:-

  1. Provide a regulatory framework for the public transport service provided within the municipal area, subject to and in addition to the Act and other legislation, and to provide for ancillary aspects such as a framework for safety and security in relation to public transport.
  2. Ensure that the provision of public transport services within the municipal area are provided for and executed in a safe and secure environment that is regulated and managed appropriately.
  3. Control and regulate the use of public transport facilities for public transport services and their operations.
  4. Promote the effective and efficient operation of public transport that serves the travelling public within the municipal area.
  5. Provide for the promotion of non-motorised transport in support of public transport infrastructure and operations, and
  6. Provide for the promotion of universal access, to the maximum extent possible, in the provision of public transport infrastructure, support infrastructure and services provided.

The aim of this By-Law is to ensure that all road users and public transport passengers, irrespective of the modal choice, experience a safer journey and that Municipal public transport infrastructure is well-managed and efficiently utilised.

 

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Full particulars of the proposed amendments to the above By-laws and the proposed adoption thereof are available for inspection at the following places:

  1. Old Town Hall Building: York street, Civil Engineering Services
  2. Libraries: George Library; Blanco Library; Conville Library; Pacaltsdorp Library; Thembalethu Library; Uniondale / Haarlem Library;
  3. Municipality’s Website: https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/civil-engineering-services/

Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged:

  1. via mail to reach the Director: Civil Engineering Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023 ; or
  2. via e-mail with subject line “Comment to CES By-laws ” to gvanniekerk@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za

Any person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Jannie Koegelenberg (044 801 9278 ).