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Author: Debra Sauer

Public Notice: Parking tickets issued on Sunday,12 December at Herold’s Bay beach to be reviewed

George Municipality has in conjunction with the Municipal Court Prosecuting Authority decided to review all traffic fines issued for parking violations at Herold’s Bay beach area on Sunday, 12 December 2021.

Each case will be evaluated on merit and a decision will be made as to whether the fine will be reduced, withdrawn or not. Any other traffic contraventions that were committed on the day at Herold’s Bay will follow the normal legal process.

George Traffic will be in contact with the vehicle owners involved if needs be, informing them of the outcome.

We once again appeal to motorists to park considerately and abide by all traffic laws.

Public Notice: New drop and go area at Herold’s Bay beach area for beachgoers convenience during the Festive Season

Issued by George Municipality 15 December 2021 for immediate release


George Municipality acknowledges the shortage of parking at Herold’s Bay beach area and have designated three drop and go parking bays right next to the caravan food stalls effectively from tomorrow, Thursday, 16 December 2021 and for the rest of the Festive Season. These three parking bays are STRICTLY for drop and go purposes only and NOT for parking. A Traffic Controller will be assisting motorists at the drop and go area.

Traffic controllers have also been appointed to assist with parking at Herold’s Bay during this Festive Season. Motorists will be allowed to park on the verges of the R404 Road entering the beach area if the parking area past the traffic circle is full.


George Traffic appeals to motorists to please park considerately and not to cause any traffic obstructions. If any vehicle is found to be contravening traffic law and causing a disruption to traffic flow, either through parking, blocking entrances or any other violation, they will be prosecuted.

George Municipal Buildings CLOSED from TODAY to the public until further notice

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY SERVICES DURING COVID-19 updated  14 December 2021
Latest update: 14 December 2021 (Current Alert Level 1 Adjusted)

George Municipality Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz today confirmed that the main and other external municipal buildings will be closed to the public today, until further notice, due to continued Covid-19 safety measures. This measure has been considered and the decision not taken lightly following the continued spike in infection rate in George,  and within our municipal staff. We have a responsibility to ensure not only the safety of the officials working for the municipality but also the public. Dr Gratz reiterated that all essential services continue to be rendered and officials will continue to work from home.

We appeal to the public to consider doing transactions and business online, per telephone or via email to avoid coming to the municipality in person and thus helping to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

During the Covid-19 crisis period, certain staff may be working from home or on rotation, which means contact details and office hours of some services may differ from usual operations. Please see below for more details per directorate.

The following offices are OPEN to the public, with amended working hours where relevant, and unless otherwise announced as per Covid-19 measures.

1. Finance Cashier Hall Main Building                              08h00 – 15h30

2. SCM Unit for purposes of submitting tenders           07h45 – 16h30

3. Finance Cashier Hall Uniondale                                    08h00 – 15h30

4. Cashier Haarlem                                                              08h00 – 15h30

5. Motor Vehicle Registration (Hibernia Street)            08h00 – 15h00

6. Vehicle Testing Station (Hibernia Street)                   08h00 – 15h00

7. Drivers Licensing Offices (Pacaltsdorp)                       08h00 – 15h00

8. Municipal Court                                                               07h45 – 16h30, closed 13h00 -13h45

9. Landfill Site                                                                       07h00 – 19h00 (Monday – Friday) more details below

10. Transfer Station                                                             07h00 – 19h00 (Monday – Friday)more details below

11. Area Offices                                                                   07h45 – 15h30

12. Thusong Centres                                                           07h45 – 15h30

13. New and Existing Housing Offices                             08h00 – 16h00

14. Public Libraries                                                            (as indicated below)

15. George and Wilderness Tourism Offices                  08h00 – 16h30

CONTACT NUMBERS AND EMAIL ADDRESSES PER DIRECTORATE

A more detailed list of numbers is available on our website: www.george.gov.za under notices

Switchboard: 044 801 9111
All after-hours George Municipality emergencies: 044 801 6300
Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management emergencies: 044 805 5071 (all hours)

REPORT FRAUD 0860 044 044 / fraud@george.gov.za
General public email for all matters: gmun@george.gov.za

PROTECTION SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Fire emergencies only: 044 801 6311 (all hours)
General fire department enquiries: 044 801 6300
Law Enforcement: 044 801 6350/89
Anti-Land Invasion: 044 801 6310
GO GEORGE Toll-free number: 0800 044 044
GO GEORGE OFFICE: 044 801 9493(The number is linked to the toll-free number for the GO GEORGE Call Centre 0800 044 044)
All after-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

Traffic Department Offices, Driving and Learners Licences:
Mission Street, Pacaltsdorp 044 878 2400
Open to the public Monday to Friday 08h00 – 15h00

Vehicle Testing Station
Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9312
Open to public Monday to Friday 08h00 – 15h00, access control from gate at the street.

Motor Vehicle Registration and Licencing
Please note the email addresses for proof of payment of online payments has changed.
Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9310

Open to the public weekdays 8h00 – 15h00, except Wednesdays when closed at 14h00 due to compulsory training. Access control is from the gate at the street.

Bulk transactions are being handled at a separate venue. Pregnant women, the elderly and disabled can pre-arrange preferential treatment by calling 044 801 9310.

CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Please phone 044 801 9354 or 044 801 9277 to obtain relevant email address.

Report water leaks and burst pipes, sewerage blockages, leaks and spillages and urgent road and stormwater issues to:
044 801 9262/6 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 6300 (after hours)

Estimated response times are 24-48 hours from recorded time of complaint at the above numbers.

ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES
Please phone 044 801 9222 or 044 801 9202 to obtain relevant email addresses, for communication purposes.

Planned maintenance continues and essential repairs for which planned outages are required will be communicated.

Please report power outages, broken streetlights and faulty traffic lights to:
044 801 9222 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 9202
044 801 6300 (after hours)
New Whatsapp Number 067 350 3295 (Available Monday to Friday 07h45 – 16h30)
Pre-paid electricity queries to Itron/Ontec: 044 873 5474 (08h00 – 16h00).

COMMUNITY SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Reception/all departments: 044 802 2900/2911 ccunningham@george.gov.za or ykibido@george.gov.za
Office of the Director: 044 802 2904 and imlubbe@george.gov.za
Parks and Recreation complaints: 044 802 2921 and bmbondweni@george.gov.za
Uncollected BLACK bags 044 802 2900/20/27 or ymali@george.gov.za / jstuurman@george.gov.za
Uncollected GREEN and BLUE bags: 044 630 0279 / andrew@lgewaste.co.za /jstuurman@george.gov.za
Environmental Health: anontshikiza@george.gov.za / tabotha@george.gov.za
Transfer Station: cplubbe@george.gov.za

Landfill Site and Transfer Station, Airport Road, open to public weekdays 07h00 – 19h00 and Saturdays  and Public Holidays from 07h00 – 15h00 (except for Christmas Day). Covid-19 protocols in place, bring your own pen to sign in for extra safety. cplubbe@george.gov.za

Please report illegal dump sites to 044 802 2900 or aapril@george.gov.za  or kvstoffels@george.gov.za  The municipality appeals to communities to remain safe and to not dump waste, which is illegal and can be hazardous to their health.

Municipal Sport facilities are open for social sport events but public swimming pools remain closed to the general public. Enquiries Gerald De Villiers 044 8019488 / gdevilliers@george.gov.za

Community Development offices

Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary. Contact 044 802 2000 or ejcorner@george.gov.za

Emergency essential social services enquiries 072 693 3488.

The Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP)

 Contact 044 802 2010 or gesau@george.gov.za  to arrange online appointments or phone 072 070 7234 for emergencies only.

EPWP Assistants for EPWP Sectors:
Environmental: Thembakazi Silimeni 044 802 2012 tsilimeni@george.gov.za
Infrastructure: Owen Fielies 044 802 2012 ojfielies@george.gov.za
Social and Community Safety: Jason Jansen 044 802 2012 jdjansen@george.gov.za
New Collaborator EPWP Recruitment and unemployment database: Charlton Van Wyk 044 802 2011/36 or email: chvanwyk@george.gov.za/ nlvanstaden@george.gov.za/nrwetshe@george.gov.za

Central Supply Data Base registrations telephonically only.


PUBLIC LIBRARIES
All libraries are open for full library services, including continued assistance with registration for vaccines on the EVDS system. The public is encouraged to please return library books.

Avontuur Library: 044 752 3351 – Monday 12h00 – 15h00, Tuesday 11h00 – 14h00, Wednesday and Thursday 10h00 – 13h00.
Blanco Library:044 870 7047 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30;  Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Conville Library:044 801 9320 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h00; Friday 10h00 – 17h00: Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
George Library: 044 801 9288 – Monday to Thursday  09h00 – 19h00; Friday 10h00 – 17h00, Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
Haarlem Library:044 763 1023 – Monday, Thursday and Friday 14h00 – 17h00, Tuesday and Wednesday 10h00 – 12h00 and 14h00 – 17h00
Noll Library:044 745 1014 – Monday and Wednesday 12h00 – 15h00, Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
Pacaltsdorp Library: 044 803 9340 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30; Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Thembalethu Library:044 803 9260 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30; Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Touwsranten Library:044 803 9285 –  Monday to Friday 09h00 – 16h00
Uniondale Library:044 752 1024 – Monday to Friday 10h00 – 16h30
Waboomskraal Library: Monday to Friday 10h00 – 14h00

Don’t forget about the George Municipality library portal link: wc.slims.gov.za/desktop/desktopwcgeplge which allows you to search online according to author, title, subjects, keyword, publisher or ISBN number. Type in your library number on your card to check your library materials status including due date and opportunity to renew your books yourself.


CORPORATE SERVICES
Central Records Main Building: 044 801 9286/9431/9125/9178
Building Plan Records (corner York and Progress Streets) 044 801 9367
Emergency Records Queries Only: Timothy Craak 082 459 4522

Area offices are closed for entry to the public but will be manned and assistance given through Covid screens at the door.
Weekdays 07h45 – 15h30
After-hours emergencies to 044 801 6300.

Blanco: 044 803 9275
Conville: 044 803 9261
Pacaltsdorp: 044 803 9286
Protea Park: 044 801 9111 ask for extension 2796 (Tuesday, Thursday)
New Dawn Park: 044 801 9111 ask for extension 2797
Rosedale: 044 803 9295
Rosemoor: 044 801 9379 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
Touwsranten/Wilderness/Kleinkrantz: 044 803 9280
Thembalethu: 044 801 9448 or 044 801 9421

Thembalethu  and Waboomskraal Thusong Centres  open to the public
Reception: 07h45 am – 15h30 (Monday – Friday)
Tenants: 07h45 am – 15h30 (Monday – Friday)

Waboomskraal Thusong Centre: 044 886 0040
Thembalethu Thusong Centre: 044 801 9448 or 044 801 9421
After hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

Community halls and venues are open to the public, subject to COVID 19 regulations on capacity (50% per hall) and protocol compliance.
Enquiries to Rozendra Thysse on 044 8019111/5 or rsthysse@george.gov.za

Acting Superintendent Halls: 060 823 3607 (on rotation with Maintenance)
Acting Superintendent Maintenance: 083 418 4588 (on rotation with Halls)

Human Resources offices are closed to the public. Enquiries to HRAdmin@george.gov.za

HUMAN SETTLEMENTS
Human Settlements administration offices, main municipal building, are closed to the public.For basic services such as water and sanitation (chemical toilets) in informal areas queries and complaints in informal settlements please contact 044 802 2003.

For assistance with emergency structures following disaster (fire, flooding etc) please phone 044 802 2029.

Queries and complaints for water leakages and sewerage complaints (indigent cases) can be reported at the office on above times, but preferably by phone on 044 801 9155/9994/9453 or anomdoe@george.gov.za or ddlouw@george.gov.za

After hour complaints:
Angelo Joseph – 072 813 5998
Dorian Louw – 067 189 5902

Existing Housing Offices
Existing Housing offices remain open to the public weekdays 07h45 – 16h00 with strict Covid-19 protocols are in place. Only two people are allowed into the foyer at any given time.
Enquiries: 044 801 9113 or 044 801 9078

New Housing
New Housing Department (St Johns Street) offices remain open to the public weekdays 07h45 – 16h00 with strict Covid-19 protocols in place. Only two people are allowed into the foyer at any given time. Enquiries: 044 802 2003

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Please note Town Planning, Building Control and Property Management offices remain closed to the public.Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Town Planning General enquiries and complaints Lorraine Malangeni lxmalangeni@george.gov.za / town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za /044 801 9477
Property Transfer Certificates: Marina Welman mhwelman@george.gov.za / 044 801 9171
Zoning Certificates: Lorraine Malangeni lxmalangeni@george.gov.za / 044 801 9477
Zoning Rectifications: Jeanne Fourie jfourie@george.gov.za / 044 801 9138 and Ilané Huyser ihuyser@george.gov.za / 044 801 9550
Land Use Planning Queries: Robin Hector rlhector@george.gov.za / 044 801 9475; Mawethu Bonga mbonga@george.gov.za / 044 801 9520; Fakazile Vava fvava@george.gov.za;
Neighbouring property owner address details: Marisa Arries 044 801 9473 marries@george.gov.za

Neighbouring property owner address details: Marisa Arries 044 801 9473 marries@george.gov.za

Land use applications
Submit Land use applications: town.planning.application@george.gov.za
Town Planning Complaints: town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za

Land use applications can be submitted as per instruction sheets on website. See ‘Covid 19 Level 3 Land Use Applications Submission Guidelines – and ‘Public Participation Instructions Covid 19 Level 3 – on the link https://www.george.gov.za/…/land…/land-use-submissions/

Enquiries land use applications as below:
Erven and farm portions ending with an even number (i.e. 0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Primrose Nako 044 801 9416 pnako@george.gov.za
Erven and farm portions ending with an odd number (i.e. 1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Marina Welman 044 801 9171 mhwelman@george.gov.za

Online submission of building plans
Building applications can be submitted via the Building Plan Portal as per above link and will not be received at the Building Control offices. See https://www.george.gov.za/planning…/building-control/ for more information.

Detailed instructions on how to use the portal can be downloaded as per link above or requested via email: vnlaws@george.gov.za or agriessel@george.gov.za

Administration related enquiries: 044 801 9370 or 044 801 9166 or via email as per below requirements:

Building Control Complaints: building.control.complaints@george.gov.za


Request of existing building plans (Registration Dept): 
pmlingani@george.gov.za or smoshani@george.gov.za or mdyakop@george.gov.za
Status on building plan approval: vnlaws@george.gov.za or agriessel@george.gov.za

Signage applications: vnlaws@george.gov.za
Demolition applications: vnlaws@george.gov.za

Request for existing building plans (Registration Department):
Phindiswa Lingani: 044 801 9370 pmlingani@george.gov.za
Sinazo Moshani: 044 801 9019 smoshani@george.gov.za
Musa Dyakop: 044 801 9166 mdyakop@george.gov.za

Status on building plan approvals: Vasti Laws: 044 801 9370 vnlaws@george.gov.za
Andrea Griessel: 044 801 9166 agriessel@george.gov.za

Please contact building inspectors directly during office hours:
James Vollenhoven –  076 823 0412 / jevollenhoven@george.gov.za
Mkhululi Nyeka – 082 877 0534 / mnyeka@george.gov.za

Eddie Koeberg – 072 665 1053/ ekoeberg@george.gov.za

Luthando Fatyela – 067 845 9552 / lfatyela@george.gov.za

Illegal activity: 044 801 9166


Economic Development

Business queries: Dr Kosie Haarhoff 083 374 4370 or khaarhoff@george.gov.za

Other queries: Sindile Mzwakali 044 801 9173 / 078 349 0147 or smzwakali@george.gov.za or Amy Kearns 073 621 0099 or akearns@george.gov.za

SMME Support:

Rosina Munro 044 801 9173 / 079 135 3420 or rmunro@george.gov.za

Worker Collection Point
Worker Collection Point and informal trader enquiries:
Amy Kearns 044 801 9173 / 073 621 0099 akearns@george.gov.za

Property Management
Donald Gelderbloem: Manager Property Management 044 801 9073 dmgelderbloem@george.gov.za
Leasing of properties: Josephine Mpembe 044 801 9190 jmpembe@george.gov.za
Sale of properties: René Hendricks 044 801 9472 rehendricks@george.gov.za
General enquiries: Monique Isaks 044 801 9375 misaks@george.gov.za

IDP Office
Dr Kosie Haarhoff: 044 801 9025/083 374 4370 khaarhoff@george.gov.za
Ronel le Fleur: 044 801 9075 / 071 870 7887 rlefleur@george.gov.za

Ward committee operations
Paulina Saaiman: 044 801 9074 / 060 579 6829 pasaaiman@george.gov.za

George Tourism
Open to the public
Monday – Friday 08h00 – 16h30,  Closed on Weekends & Public Holidays
044 801 9295 info@visitgeorge.co.za

Wilderness Tourism
Open to the public
Monday – Friday 08h00 – 16h30, Open on Saturdays and Public Holidays from 09h00 to 13h00 except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Tel: 044 877 0045, info@visitwilderness.co.za

Uniondale Tourism
Virtual assistance only
044 518 0030 info@visituniondale.co.za

FINANCE
The Finance Hall in the Main Building is open to the public weekdays from 08h00 – 15h30 and the SCM unit is open for the submitting of tenders only.

While electronic payments are recommended (see details below), the Finance Hall is open for account payments in addition to municipal account queries, opening of accounts, new connections, duplicate accounts, arrangements on arrears, indigent applications etc.

If you want to receive your account via email, please mail a request to accounts@george.gov.za.

Ratepayers are requested to use one of the below-mentioned methods to make payments.

Accounts can be paid via electronic transfer (EFT – see details below), via pay@ mobile applications (see details below) and at Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, USave and SPAR. Please take your most recent available account statement with you so that the shop can access the bar code that connects your payment to your GRG account number.

Meter readings
Online submissions of water meter readings are welcomed and can be provided via the below email address along with the accountholder’s name, contact details and GRG account number.

Consumers must please note the change in email address to meterreadings@george.gov.za.
Account related enquiries: accounts@george.gov.za

Bank Details for electronic payment (please note bank details changed 1 December 2020) The old account is being phased out so please amend as soon as possible. For now, it is still active, and payments made so far will have been received.

First National Bank (FNB)
Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account
Account Name: George Municipality
Account Number: 62869623150
Branch Code: 210554
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ

Reference: your GRG account number (please enter your account number without the GRG in front and without any spaces in-between)

Proof of payment to be sent to payments@george.gov.za

pay@ mobile applications
Download Masterpass, Snapscan or Zapper application on your mobile phone and complete your profile.

You can also use the following link for payment of your account:
https://payat.io/qr/11413

Prepaid electricity purchases
www.prepaid24.co.za
https://home.ontec.co.za
www.ipay.co.za

For prepaid enquiries please contact 044 873 5474.
General account related enquiries to accounts@george.gov.za or 044 801 9111.
Please provide your GRG account number with all enquiries.
Credit Control enquiries: 044 801 9111

MUNICIPAL COURT
The George Municipal Court is open to the public on weekdays 07h45 – 16h30 (Closed 13h00 – 13h45)
Representations can be emailed to abfelix@george.gov.za
Enquiries: 044 801 9400

UNIONDALE / HAARLEM
Administration Offices will remain open, and staff will work on rotational basis.
Uniondale – Cashier remains open on weekdays 08h00 – 16h30 (Closed 13h00 – 13h45)
Haarlem – Cashier open 08h00 – 15h30
Fire: 044 752 1225
Switchboard and fault reporting: 044 752 1024
Tourism: 044 518 0030
Haarlem: 044 763 1013
After hours: 044 801 6300

George Mu

George Municipal Buildings CLOSED  from TODAY to the public until further notice

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY SERVICES DURING COVID-19 updated  14 December 2021
Latest update: 14 December 2021 (Current Alert Level 1 Adjusted)

George Municipality Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz today confirmed that the main and other external municipal buildings will be closed to the public today, until further notice, due to continued Covid-19 safety measures. This measure has been considered and the decision not taken lightly following the continued spike in infection rate in George,  and within our municipal staff. We have a responsibility to  ensure not only the safety of the officials working for the municipality but also the public. Dr Gratz reiterated that all essential services continue to be rendered and officials will continue to work from home.

We appeal to the public to consider doing transactions and business online, per telephone or via email to avoid coming to the municipality in person and thus helping to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

During the Covid-19 crisis period, certain staff may be working from home or on rotation, which means contact details and office hours of some services may differ from usual operations. Please see below for more details per directorate.

The following offices are OPEN to the public, with amended working hours where relevant, and unless otherwise announced as per Covid-19 measures.

1. Finance Cashier Hall Main Building                              08h00 – 15h30

2. SCM Unit for purposes of submitting tenders           07h45 – 16h30

3. Finance Cashier Hall Uniondale                                    08h00 – 15h30

4. Cashier Haarlem                                                              08h00 – 15h30

5. Motor Vehicle Registration (Hibernia Street)            08h00 – 15h00

6. Vehicle Testing Station (Hibernia Street)                   08h00 – 15h00

7. Drivers Licensing Offices (Pacaltsdorp)                       08h00 – 15h00

8. Municipal Court                                                               07h45 – 16h30, closed 13h00 -13h45

9. Landfill Site                                                                       07h00 – 19h00 (Monday – Friday) more details below

10. Transfer Station                                                             07h00 – 19h00 (Monday – Friday)more details below

11. Area Offices                                                                   07h45 – 15h30

12. Thusong Centres                                                           07h45 – 15h30

13. New and Existing Housing Offices                             08h00 – 16h00

14. Public Libraries                                                              (as indicated below)

15. George and Wilderness Tourism Offices                  08h00 – 16h30

CONTACT NUMBERS AND EMAIL ADDRESSES PER DIRECTORATE

A more detailed list of numbers is available on our website: www.george.gov.za under notices

Switchboard: 044 801 9111
All after-hours George Municipality emergencies: 044 801 6300
Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management emergencies: 044 805 5071 (all hours)

REPORTFRAUD 0860 044 044 / fraud@george.gov.za
General public email for all matters: gmun@george.gov.za

PROTECTION SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Fire emergencies only: 044 801 6311 (all hours)
General fire department enquiries: 044 801 6300
Law Enforcement: 044 801 6350/89
Anti-Land Invasion: 044 801 6310
GO GEORGE Toll-free number: 0800 044 044
GO GEORGE OFFICE: 044 801 9493(The number is linked to the toll-free number for the GO GEORGE Call Centre 0800 044 044)
All after-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

Traffic Department Offices, Driving and Learners Licences:
Mission Street, Pacaltsdorp 044 878 2400
Open to the public Monday to Friday 08h00 – 15h00

Vehicle Testing Station
Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9312
Open to public Monday to Friday 08h00 – 15h00, access control from gate at the street.

Motor Vehicle Registration and Licencing
Please note the email addresses for proof of payment of online payments has changed.
Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9310

Open to the public weekdays 8h00 – 15h00, except Wednesdays when closed at 14h00 due to compulsory training. Access control is from the gate at the street.

Bulk transactions are being handled at a separate venue. Pregnant women, the elderly and disabled can pre-arrange preferential treatment by calling 044 801 9310.

CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Please phone 044 801 9354 or 044 801 9277 to obtain relevant email address.

Report water leaks and burst pipes, sewerage blockages, leaks and spillages and urgent road and stormwater issues to:
044 801 9262/6 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 6300 (after hours)

Estimated response times are 24-48 hours from recorded time of complaint at the above numbers.

ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES
Please phone 044 801 9222 or 044 801 9202 to obtain relevant email addresses, for communication purposes.

Planned maintenance continues and essential repairs for which planned outages are required will be communicated.

Please report power outages, broken streetlights and faulty traffic lights to:
044 801 9222 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 9202
044 801 6300 (after hours)
New Whatsapp Number 067 350 3295 (Available Monday to Friday 07h45 – 16h30)
Pre-paid electricity queries to Itron/Ontec: 044 873 5474 (08h00 – 16h00).

COMMUNITY SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Reception/all departments: 044 802 2900/2911 ccunningham@george.gov.za or ykibido@george.gov.za
Office of the Director: 044 802 2904 and imlubbe@george.gov.za
Parks and Recreation complaints: 044 802 2921 and bmbondweni@george.gov.za
Uncollected BLACK bags 044 802 2900/20/27 or ymali@george.gov.za / jstuurman@george.gov.za
Uncollected GREEN and BLUE bags: 044 630 0279 / andrew@lgewaste.co.za /jstuurman@george.gov.za
Environmental Health: anontshikiza@george.gov.za / tabotha@george.gov.za
Transfer Station: cplubbe@george.gov.za

Landfill Site and Transfer Station, Airport Road, open to public weekdays 07h00 – 19h00 and Saturdays  and Public Holidays from 07h00 – 15h00 (except for Christmas Day). Covid-19 protocols in place, bring your own pen to sign in for extra safety. cplubbe@george.gov.za

Please report illegal dump sites to 044 802 2900 or aapril@george.gov.za  or kvstoffels@george.gov.za  The municipality appeals to communities to remain safe and to not dump waste, which is illegal and can be hazardous to their health.

Municipal Sport facilities are open for social sport events but public swimming pools remain closed to the general public. Enquiries Gerald De Villiers 044 8019488 / gdevilliers@george.gov.za

Community Development offices

Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary. Contact 044 802 2000 or ejcorner@george.gov.za

Emergency essential social services enquiries 072 693 3488.

The Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP)

 Contact 044 802 2010 or gesau@george.gov.za  to arrange online appointments or phone 072 070 7234 for emergencies only.

EPWP Assistants for EPWP Sectors:
Environmental: Thembakazi Silimeni 044 802 2012 tsilimeni@george.gov.za
Infrastructure: Owen Fielies 044 802 2012 ojfielies@george.gov.za
Social and Community Safety: Jason Jansen 044 802 2012 jdjansen@george.gov.za
New Collaborator EPWP Recruitment and unemployment database: Charlton Van Wyk 044 802 2011/36 or email: chvanwyk@george.gov.za/ nlvanstaden@george.gov.za/nrwetshe@george.gov.za

Central Supply Data Base registrations telephonically only.


PUBLIC LIBRARIES
All libraries are open for full library services, including continued assistance with registration for vaccines on the EVDS system. The public is encouraged to please return library books.

Avontuur Library: 044 752 3351 – Monday 12h00 – 15h00, Tuesday 11h00 – 14h00, Wednesday and Thursday 10h00 – 13h00.
Blanco Library:044 870 7047 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30;  Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Conville Library:044 801 9320 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h00; Friday 10h00 – 17h00: Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
George Library: 044 801 9288 – Monday to Thursday  09h00 – 19h00; Friday 10h00 – 17h00, Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
Haarlem Library:044 763 1023 – Monday, Thursday and Friday 14h00 – 17h00, Tuesday and Wednesday 10h00 – 12h00 and 14h00 – 17h00
Noll Library:044 745 1014 – Monday and Wednesday 12h00 – 15h00, Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
Pacaltsdorp Library: 044 803 9340 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30; Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Thembalethu Library:044 803 9260 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30; Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Touwsranten Library:044 803 9285 –  Monday to Friday 09h00 – 16h00
Uniondale Library:044 752 1024 – Monday to Friday 10h00 – 16h30
Waboomskraal Library: Monday to Friday 10h00 – 14h00

Don’t forget about the George Municipality library portal link: wc.slims.gov.za/desktop/desktopwcgeplge which allows you to search online according to author, title, subjects, keyword, publisher or ISBN number. Type in your library number on your card to check your library materials status including due date and opportunity to renew your books yourself.


CORPORATE SERVICES
Central Records Main Building: 044 801 9286/9431/9125/9178
Building Plan Records (corner York and Progress Streets) 044 801 9367
Emergency Records Queries Only: Timothy Craak 082 459 4522

Area offices are closed for entry to the public but will be manned and assistance given through Covid screens at the door.
Weekdays 07h45 – 15h30
After-hours emergencies to 044 801 6300.

Blanco: 044 803 9275
Conville: 044 803 9261
Pacaltsdorp: 044 803 9286
Protea Park: 044 801 9111 ask for extension 2796 (Tuesday, Thursday)
New Dawn Park: 044 801 9111 ask for extension 2797
Rosedale: 044 803 9295
Rosemoor: 044 801 9379 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
Touwsranten/Wilderness/Kleinkrantz: 044 803 9280
Thembalethu: 044 801 9448 or 044 801 9421

Thembalethu  and Waboomskraal Thusong Centres  open to the public
Reception: 07h45 am – 15h30 (Monday – Friday)
Tenants: 07h45 am – 15h30 (Monday – Friday)

Waboomskraal Thusong Centre: 044 886 0040
Thembalethu Thusong Centre: 044 801 9448 or 044 801 9421
After hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

Community halls and venues are open to the public, subject to COVID 19 regulations on capacity (50% per hall) and protocol compliance.
Enquiries to Rozendra Thysse on 044 8019111/5 or rsthysse@george.gov.za

Acting Superintendent Halls: 060 823 3607 (on rotation with Maintenance)
Acting Superintendent Maintenance: 083 418 4588 (on rotation with Halls)

Human Resources offices are closed to the public. Enquiries to HRAdmin@george.gov.za

HUMAN SETTLEMENTS
Human Settlements administration offices, main municipal building, are closed to the public.For basic services such as water and sanitation (chemical toilets) in informal areas queries and complaints in informal settlements please contact 044 802 2003.

For assistance with emergency structures following disaster (fire, flooding etc) please phone 044 802 2029.

Queries and complaints for water leakages and sewerage complaints (indigent cases) can be reported at the office on above times, but preferably by phone on 044 801 9155/9994/9453 or anomdoe@george.gov.za or ddlouw@george.gov.za

After hour complaints:
Angelo Joseph – 072 813 5998
Dorian Louw – 067 189 5902

Existing Housing Offices
Existing Housing offices remain open to the public weekdays 07h45 – 16h00 with strict Covid-19 protocols are in place. Only two people are allowed into the foyer at any given time.
Enquiries: 044 801 9113 or 044 801 9078

New Housing
New Housing Department (St Johns Street) offices remain open to the public weekdays 07h45 – 16h00 with strict Covid-19 protocols in place. Only two people are allowed into the foyer at any given time. Enquiries: 044 802 2003

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Please note Town Planning, Building Control and Property Management offices remain closed to the public.Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Town Planning General enquiries and complaints Lorraine Malangeni lxmalangeni@george.gov.za / town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za /044 801 9477
Property Transfer Certificates: Marina Welman mhwelman@george.gov.za / 044 801 9171
Zoning Certificates: Lorraine Malangeni lxmalangeni@george.gov.za / 044 801 9477
Zoning Rectifications: Jeanne Fourie jfourie@george.gov.za / 044 801 9138 and Ilané Huyser ihuyser@george.gov.za / 044 801 9550
Land Use Planning Queries: Robin Hector rlhector@george.gov.za / 044 801 9475; Mawethu Bonga mbonga@george.gov.za / 044 801 9520; Fakazile Vava fvava@george.gov.za;
Neighbouring property owner address details: Marisa Arries 044 801 9473 marries@george.gov.za

Neighbouring property owner address details: Marisa Arries 044 801 9473 marries@george.gov.za

Land use applications
Submit Land use applications: town.planning.application@george.gov.za
Town Planning Complaints: town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za

Land use applications can be submitted as per instruction sheets on website. See ‘Covid 19 Level 3 Land Use Applications Submission Guidelines – and ‘Public Participation Instructions Covid 19 Level 3 – on the link https://www.george.gov.za/…/land…/land-use-submissions/

Enquiries land use applications as below:
Erven and farm portions ending with an even number (i.e. 0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Primrose Nako 044 801 9416 pnako@george.gov.za
Erven and farm portions ending with an odd number (i.e. 1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Marina Welman 044 801 9171 mhwelman@george.gov.za

Online submission of building plans
Building applications can be submitted via the Building Plan Portal as per above link and will not be received at the Building Control offices. See https://www.george.gov.za/planning…/building-control/ for more information.

Detailed instructions on how to use the portal can be downloaded as per link above or requested via email: vnlaws@george.gov.za or agriessel@george.gov.za

Administration related enquiries: 044 801 9370 or 044 801 9166 or via email as per below requirements:

Building Control Complaints: building.control.complaints@george.gov.za


Request of existing building plans (Registration Dept): 
pmlingani@george.gov.za or smoshani@george.gov.za or mdyakop@george.gov.za
Status on building plan approval: vnlaws@george.gov.za or agriessel@george.gov.za

Signage applications: vnlaws@george.gov.za
Demolition applications: vnlaws@george.gov.za

Request for existing building plans (Registration Department):
Phindiswa Lingani: 044 801 9370 pmlingani@george.gov.za
Sinazo Moshani: 044 801 9019 smoshani@george.gov.za
Musa Dyakop: 044 801 9166 mdyakop@george.gov.za

Status on building plan approvals: Vasti Laws: 044 801 9370 vnlaws@george.gov.za
Andrea Griessel: 044 801 9166 agriessel@george.gov.za

Please contact building inspectors directly during office hours:
James Vollenhoven –  076 823 0412 / jevollenhoven@george.gov.za
Mkhululi Nyeka – 082 877 0534 / mnyeka@george.gov.za

Eddie Koeberg – 072 665 1053/ ekoeberg@george.gov.za

Luthando Fatyela – 067 845 9552 / lfatyela@george.gov.za

Illegal activity: 044 801 9166


Economic Development

Business queries: Dr Kosie Haarhoff 083 374 4370 or khaarhoff@george.gov.za

Other queries: Sindile Mzwakali 044 801 9173 / 078 349 0147 or smzwakali@george.gov.za or Amy Kearns 073 621 0099 or akearns@george.gov.za

SMME Support:

Rosina Munro 044 801 9173 / 079 135 3420 or rmunro@george.gov.za

Worker Collection Point
Worker Collection Point and informal trader enquiries:
Amy Kearns 044 801 9173 / 073 621 0099 akearns@george.gov.za

Property Management
Donald Gelderbloem: Manager Property Management 044 801 9073 dmgelderbloem@george.gov.za
Leasing of properties: Josephine Mpembe 044 801 9190 jmpembe@george.gov.za
Sale of properties: René Hendricks 044 801 9472 rehendricks@george.gov.za
General enquiries: Monique Isaks 044 801 9375 misaks@george.gov.za

IDP Office
Dr Kosie Haarhoff: 044 801 9025/083 374 4370 khaarhoff@george.gov.za
Ronel le Fleur: 044 801 9075 / 071 870 7887 rlefleur@george.gov.za

Ward committee operations
Paulina Saaiman: 044 801 9074 / 060 579 6829 pasaaiman@george.gov.za

George Tourism
Open to the public
Monday – Friday 08h00 – 16h30,  Closed on Weekends & Public Holidays
044 801 9295 info@visitgeorge.co.za

Wilderness Tourism
Open to the public
Monday – Friday 08h00 – 16h30, Open on Saturdays and Public Holidays from 09h00 to 13h00 except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Tel: 044 877 0045, info@visitwilderness.co.za

Uniondale Tourism
Virtual assistance only
044 518 0030 info@visituniondale.co.za

FINANCE
The Finance Hall in the Main Building is open to the public weekdays from 08h00 – 15h30 and the SCM unit is open for the submitting of tenders only.

While electronic payments are recommended (see details below), the Finance Hall is open for account payments in addition to municipal account queries, opening of accounts, new connections, duplicate accounts, arrangements on arrears, indigent applications etc.

If you want to receive your account via email, please mail a request to accounts@george.gov.za.

Ratepayers are requested to use one of the below-mentioned methods to make payments.

Accounts can be paid via electronic transfer (EFT – see details below), via pay@ mobile applications (see details below) and at Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, USave and SPAR. Please take your most recent available account statement with you so that the shop can access the bar code that connects your payment to your GRG account number.

Meter readings
Online submissions of water meter readings are welcomed and can be provided via the below email address along with the accountholder’s name, contact details and GRG account number.

Consumers must please note the change in email address to meterreadings@george.gov.za.
Account related enquiries: accounts@george.gov.za

Bank Details for electronic payment (please note bank details changed 1 December 2020) The old account is being phased out so please amend as soon as possible. For now, it is still active, and payments made so far will have been received.

First National Bank (FNB)
Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account
Account Name: George Municipality
Account Number: 62869623150
Branch Code: 210554
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ

Reference: your GRG account number (please enter your account number without the GRG in front and without any spaces in-between)

Proof of payment to be sent to payments@george.gov.za

pay@ mobile applications
Download Masterpass, Snapscan or Zapper application on your mobile phone and complete your profile.

You can also use the following link for payment of your account:
https://payat.io/qr/11413

Prepaid electricity purchases
www.prepaid24.co.za
https://home.ontec.co.za
www.ipay.co.za

For prepaid enquiries please contact 044 873 5474.
General account related enquiries to accounts@george.gov.za or 044 801 9111.
Please provide your GRG account number with all enquiries.
Credit Control enquiries: 044 801 9111

MUNICIPAL COURT
The George Municipal Court is open to the public on weekdays 07h45 – 16h30 (Closed 13h00 – 13h45)
Representations can be emailed to abfelix@george.gov.za
Enquiries: 044 801 9400

UNIONDALE / HAARLEM
Administration Offices will remain open, and staff will work on rotational basis.
Uniondale – Cashier remains open on weekdays 08h00 – 16h30 (Closed 13h00 – 13h45)
Haarlem – Cashier open 08h00 – 15h30
Fire: 044 752 1225
Switchboard and fault reporting: 044 752 1024
Tourism: 044 518 0030
Haarlem: 044 763 1013
After hours: 044 801 6300

nicipal Buildings CLOSED  from TODAY to the public until further notice

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY SERVICES DURING COVID-19 updated  14 December 2021
Latest update: 14 December 2021 (Current Alert Level 1 Adjusted)

George Municipality Acting Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz today confirmed that the main and other external municipal buildings will be closed to the public today, until further notice, due to continued Covid-19 safety measures. This measure has been considered and the decision not taken lightly following the continued spike in infection rate in George,  and within our municipal staff. We have a responsibility to  ensure not only the safety of the officials working for the municipality but also the public. Dr Gratz reiterated that all essential services continue to be rendered and officials will continue to work from home.

We appeal to the public to consider doing transactions and business online, per telephone or via email to avoid coming to the municipality in person and thus helping to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

During the Covid-19 crisis period, certain staff may be working from home or on rotation, which means contact details and office hours of some services may differ from usual operations. Please see below for more details per directorate.

The following offices are OPEN to the public, with amended working hours where relevant, and unless otherwise announced as per Covid-19 measures.

1. Finance Cashier Hall Main Building                              08h00 – 15h30

2. SCM Unit for purposes of submitting tenders           07h45 – 16h30

3. Finance Cashier Hall Uniondale                                    08h00 – 15h30

4. Cashier Haarlem                                                              08h00 – 15h30

5. Motor Vehicle Registration (Hibernia Street)            08h00 – 15h00

6. Vehicle Testing Station (Hibernia Street)                   08h00 – 15h00

7. Drivers Licensing Offices (Pacaltsdorp)                       08h00 – 15h00

8. Municipal Court                                                               07h45 – 16h30, closed 13h00 -13h45

9. Landfill Site                                                                       07h00 – 19h00 (Monday – Friday) more details below

10. Transfer Station                                                             07h00 – 19h00 (Monday – Friday)more details below

11. Area Offices                                                                   07h45 – 15h30

12. Thusong Centres                                                           07h45 – 15h30

13. New and Existing Housing Offices                             08h00 – 16h00

14. Public Libraries                                                              (as indicated below)

15. George and Wilderness Tourism Offices                  08h00 – 16h30

CONTACT NUMBERS AND EMAIL ADDRESSES PER DIRECTORATE

A more detailed list of numbers is available on our website: www.george.gov.za under notices

Switchboard: 044 801 9111
All after-hours George Municipality emergencies: 044 801 6300
Garden Route District Municipality Disaster Management emergencies: 044 805 5071 (all hours)

REPORTFRAUD 0860 044 044 / fraud@george.gov.za
General public email for all matters: gmun@george.gov.za

PROTECTION SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Fire emergencies only: 044 801 6311 (all hours)
General fire department enquiries: 044 801 6300
Law Enforcement: 044 801 6350/89
Anti-Land Invasion: 044 801 6310
GO GEORGE Toll-free number: 0800 044 044
GO GEORGE OFFICE: 044 801 9493(The number is linked to the toll-free number for the GO GEORGE Call Centre 0800 044 044)
All after-hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

Traffic Department Offices, Driving and Learners Licences:
Mission Street, Pacaltsdorp 044 878 2400
Open to the public Monday to Friday 08h00 – 15h00

Vehicle Testing Station
Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9312
Open to public Monday to Friday 08h00 – 15h00, access control from gate at the street.

Motor Vehicle Registration and Licencing
Please note the email addresses for proof of payment of online payments has changed.
Hibernia Street (next to train station) 044 801 9310

Open to the public weekdays 8h00 – 15h00, except Wednesdays when closed at 14h00 due to compulsory training. Access control is from the gate at the street.

Bulk transactions are being handled at a separate venue. Pregnant women, the elderly and disabled can pre-arrange preferential treatment by calling 044 801 9310.

CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Please phone 044 801 9354 or 044 801 9277 to obtain relevant email address.

Report water leaks and burst pipes, sewerage blockages, leaks and spillages and urgent road and stormwater issues to:
044 801 9262/6 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 6300 (after hours)

Estimated response times are 24-48 hours from recorded time of complaint at the above numbers.

ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES
Please phone 044 801 9222 or 044 801 9202 to obtain relevant email addresses, for communication purposes.

Planned maintenance continues and essential repairs for which planned outages are required will be communicated.

Please report power outages, broken streetlights and faulty traffic lights to:
044 801 9222 (07h45 – 16h30)
044 801 9202
044 801 6300 (after hours)
New Whatsapp Number 067 350 3295 (Available Monday to Friday 07h45 – 16h30)
Pre-paid electricity queries to Itron/Ontec: 044 873 5474 (08h00 – 16h00).

COMMUNITY SERVICES
Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Reception/all departments: 044 802 2900/2911 ccunningham@george.gov.za or ykibido@george.gov.za
Office of the Director: 044 802 2904 and imlubbe@george.gov.za
Parks and Recreation complaints: 044 802 2921 and bmbondweni@george.gov.za
Uncollected BLACK bags 044 802 2900/20/27 or ymali@george.gov.za / jstuurman@george.gov.za
Uncollected GREEN and BLUE bags: 044 630 0279 / andrew@lgewaste.co.za /jstuurman@george.gov.za
Environmental Health: anontshikiza@george.gov.za / tabotha@george.gov.za
Transfer Station: cplubbe@george.gov.za

Landfill Site and Transfer Station, Airport Road, open to public weekdays 07h00 – 19h00 and Saturdays  and Public Holidays from 07h00 – 15h00 (except for Christmas Day). Covid-19 protocols in place, bring your own pen to sign in for extra safety. cplubbe@george.gov.za

Please report illegal dump sites to 044 802 2900 or aapril@george.gov.za  or kvstoffels@george.gov.za  The municipality appeals to communities to remain safe and to not dump waste, which is illegal and can be hazardous to their health.

Municipal Sport facilities are open for social sport events but public swimming pools remain closed to the general public. Enquiries Gerald De Villiers 044 8019488 / gdevilliers@george.gov.za

Community Development offices

Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary. Contact 044 802 2000 or ejcorner@george.gov.za

Emergency essential social services enquiries 072 693 3488.

The Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP)

 Contact 044 802 2010 or gesau@george.gov.za  to arrange online appointments or phone 072 070 7234 for emergencies only.

EPWP Assistants for EPWP Sectors:
Environmental: Thembakazi Silimeni 044 802 2012 tsilimeni@george.gov.za
Infrastructure: Owen Fielies 044 802 2012 ojfielies@george.gov.za
Social and Community Safety: Jason Jansen 044 802 2012 jdjansen@george.gov.za
New Collaborator EPWP Recruitment and unemployment database: Charlton Van Wyk 044 802 2011/36 or email: chvanwyk@george.gov.za/ nlvanstaden@george.gov.za/nrwetshe@george.gov.za

Central Supply Data Base registrations telephonically only.


PUBLIC LIBRARIES
All libraries are open for full library services, including continued assistance with registration for vaccines on the EVDS system. The public is encouraged to please return library books.

Avontuur Library: 044 752 3351 – Monday 12h00 – 15h00, Tuesday 11h00 – 14h00, Wednesday and Thursday 10h00 – 13h00.
Blanco Library:044 870 7047 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30;  Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Conville Library:044 801 9320 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h00; Friday 10h00 – 17h00: Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
George Library: 044 801 9288 – Monday to Thursday  09h00 – 19h00; Friday 10h00 – 17h00, Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
Haarlem Library:044 763 1023 – Monday, Thursday and Friday 14h00 – 17h00, Tuesday and Wednesday 10h00 – 12h00 and 14h00 – 17h00
Noll Library:044 745 1014 – Monday and Wednesday 12h00 – 15h00, Saturday 09h00 – 12h00
Pacaltsdorp Library: 044 803 9340 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30; Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Thembalethu Library:044 803 9260 – Monday to Thursday 09h00 – 17h30; Friday 10h00 – 17h00
Touwsranten Library:044 803 9285 –  Monday to Friday 09h00 – 16h00
Uniondale Library:044 752 1024 – Monday to Friday 10h00 – 16h30
Waboomskraal Library: Monday to Friday 10h00 – 14h00

Don’t forget about the George Municipality library portal link: wc.slims.gov.za/desktop/desktopwcgeplge which allows you to search online according to author, title, subjects, keyword, publisher or ISBN number. Type in your library number on your card to check your library materials status including due date and opportunity to renew your books yourself.


CORPORATE SERVICES
Central Records Main Building: 044 801 9286/9431/9125/9178
Building Plan Records (corner York and Progress Streets) 044 801 9367
Emergency Records Queries Only: Timothy Craak 082 459 4522

Area offices are closed for entry to the public but will be manned and assistance given through Covid screens at the door.
Weekdays 07h45 – 15h30
After-hours emergencies to 044 801 6300.

Blanco: 044 803 9275
Conville: 044 803 9261
Pacaltsdorp: 044 803 9286
Protea Park: 044 801 9111 ask for extension 2796 (Tuesday, Thursday)
New Dawn Park: 044 801 9111 ask for extension 2797
Rosedale: 044 803 9295
Rosemoor: 044 801 9379 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
Touwsranten/Wilderness/Kleinkrantz: 044 803 9280
Thembalethu: 044 801 9448 or 044 801 9421

Thembalethu  and Waboomskraal Thusong Centres  open to the public
Reception: 07h45 am – 15h30 (Monday – Friday)
Tenants: 07h45 am – 15h30 (Monday – Friday)

Waboomskraal Thusong Centre: 044 886 0040
Thembalethu Thusong Centre: 044 801 9448 or 044 801 9421
After hours emergencies: 044 801 6300

Community halls and venues are open to the public, subject to COVID 19 regulations on capacity (50% per hall) and protocol compliance.
Enquiries to Rozendra Thysse on 044 8019111/5 or rsthysse@george.gov.za

Acting Superintendent Halls: 060 823 3607 (on rotation with Maintenance)
Acting Superintendent Maintenance: 083 418 4588 (on rotation with Halls)

Human Resources offices are closed to the public. Enquiries to HRAdmin@george.gov.za

HUMAN SETTLEMENTS
Human Settlements administration offices, main municipal building, are closed to the public.For basic services such as water and sanitation (chemical toilets) in informal areas queries and complaints in informal settlements please contact 044 802 2003.

For assistance with emergency structures following disaster (fire, flooding etc) please phone 044 802 2029.

Queries and complaints for water leakages and sewerage complaints (indigent cases) can be reported at the office on above times, but preferably by phone on 044 801 9155/9994/9453 or anomdoe@george.gov.za or ddlouw@george.gov.za

After hour complaints:
Angelo Joseph – 072 813 5998
Dorian Louw – 067 189 5902

Existing Housing Offices
Existing Housing offices remain open to the public weekdays 07h45 – 16h00 with strict Covid-19 protocols are in place. Only two people are allowed into the foyer at any given time.
Enquiries: 044 801 9113 or 044 801 9078

New Housing
New Housing Department (St Johns Street) offices remain open to the public weekdays 07h45 – 16h00 with strict Covid-19 protocols in place. Only two people are allowed into the foyer at any given time. Enquiries: 044 802 2003

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Please note Town Planning, Building Control and Property Management offices remain closed to the public.Please contact the specific person via telephone or email as listed below to arrange for online meetings if necessary.

Town Planning General enquiries and complaints Lorraine Malangeni lxmalangeni@george.gov.za / town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za /044 801 9477
Property Transfer Certificates: Marina Welman mhwelman@george.gov.za / 044 801 9171
Zoning Certificates: Lorraine Malangeni lxmalangeni@george.gov.za / 044 801 9477
Zoning Rectifications: Jeanne Fourie jfourie@george.gov.za / 044 801 9138 and Ilané Huyser ihuyser@george.gov.za / 044 801 9550
Land Use Planning Queries: Robin Hector rlhector@george.gov.za / 044 801 9475; Mawethu Bonga mbonga@george.gov.za / 044 801 9520; Fakazile Vava fvava@george.gov.za;
Neighbouring property owner address details: Marisa Arries 044 801 9473 marries@george.gov.za

Neighbouring property owner address details: Marisa Arries 044 801 9473 marries@george.gov.za

Land use applications
Submit Land use applications: town.planning.application@george.gov.za
Town Planning Complaints: town.planning.complaints@george.gov.za

Land use applications can be submitted as per instruction sheets on website. See ‘Covid 19 Level 3 Land Use Applications Submission Guidelines – and ‘Public Participation Instructions Covid 19 Level 3 – on the link https://www.george.gov.za/…/land…/land-use-submissions/

Enquiries land use applications as below:
Erven and farm portions ending with an even number (i.e. 0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Primrose Nako 044 801 9416 pnako@george.gov.za
Erven and farm portions ending with an odd number (i.e. 1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Marina Welman 044 801 9171 mhwelman@george.gov.za

Online submission of building plans
Building applications can be submitted via the Building Plan Portal as per above link and will not be received at the Building Control offices. See https://www.george.gov.za/planning…/building-control/ for more information.

Detailed instructions on how to use the portal can be downloaded as per link above or requested via email: vnlaws@george.gov.za or agriessel@george.gov.za

Administration related enquiries: 044 801 9370 or 044 801 9166 or via email as per below requirements:

Building Control Complaints: building.control.complaints@george.gov.za


Request of existing building plans (Registration Dept): 
pmlingani@george.gov.za or smoshani@george.gov.za or mdyakop@george.gov.za
Status on building plan approval: vnlaws@george.gov.za or agriessel@george.gov.za

Signage applications: vnlaws@george.gov.za
Demolition applications: vnlaws@george.gov.za

Request for existing building plans (Registration Department):
Phindiswa Lingani: 044 801 9370 pmlingani@george.gov.za
Sinazo Moshani: 044 801 9019 smoshani@george.gov.za
Musa Dyakop: 044 801 9166 mdyakop@george.gov.za

Status on building plan approvals: Vasti Laws: 044 801 9370 vnlaws@george.gov.za
Andrea Griessel: 044 801 9166 agriessel@george.gov.za

Please contact building inspectors directly during office hours:
James Vollenhoven –  076 823 0412 / jevollenhoven@george.gov.za
Mkhululi Nyeka – 082 877 0534 / mnyeka@george.gov.za

Eddie Koeberg – 072 665 1053/ ekoeberg@george.gov.za

Luthando Fatyela – 067 845 9552 / lfatyela@george.gov.za

Illegal activity: 044 801 9166


Economic Development

Business queries: Dr Kosie Haarhoff 083 374 4370 or khaarhoff@george.gov.za

Other queries: Sindile Mzwakali 044 801 9173 / 078 349 0147 or smzwakali@george.gov.za or Amy Kearns 073 621 0099 or akearns@george.gov.za

SMME Support:

Rosina Munro 044 801 9173 / 079 135 3420 or rmunro@george.gov.za

Worker Collection Point
Worker Collection Point and informal trader enquiries:
Amy Kearns 044 801 9173 / 073 621 0099 akearns@george.gov.za

Property Management
Donald Gelderbloem: Manager Property Management 044 801 9073 dmgelderbloem@george.gov.za
Leasing of properties: Josephine Mpembe 044 801 9190 jmpembe@george.gov.za
Sale of properties: René Hendricks 044 801 9472 rehendricks@george.gov.za
General enquiries: Monique Isaks 044 801 9375 misaks@george.gov.za

IDP Office
Dr Kosie Haarhoff: 044 801 9025/083 374 4370 khaarhoff@george.gov.za
Ronel le Fleur: 044 801 9075 / 071 870 7887 rlefleur@george.gov.za

Ward committee operations
Paulina Saaiman: 044 801 9074 / 060 579 6829 pasaaiman@george.gov.za

George Tourism
Open to the public
Monday – Friday 08h00 – 16h30,  Closed on Weekends & Public Holidays
044 801 9295 info@visitgeorge.co.za

Wilderness Tourism
Open to the public
Monday – Friday 08h00 – 16h30, Open on Saturdays and Public Holidays from 09h00 to 13h00 except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Tel: 044 877 0045, info@visitwilderness.co.za

Uniondale Tourism
Virtual assistance only
044 518 0030 info@visituniondale.co.za

FINANCE
The Finance Hall in the Main Building is open to the public weekdays from 08h00 – 15h30 and the SCM unit is open for the submitting of tenders only.

While electronic payments are recommended (see details below), the Finance Hall is open for account payments in addition to municipal account queries, opening of accounts, new connections, duplicate accounts, arrangements on arrears, indigent applications etc.

If you want to receive your account via email, please mail a request to accounts@george.gov.za.

Ratepayers are requested to use one of the below-mentioned methods to make payments.

Accounts can be paid via electronic transfer (EFT – see details below), via pay@ mobile applications (see details below) and at Pick n Pay, Checkers, Shoprite, USave and SPAR. Please take your most recent available account statement with you so that the shop can access the bar code that connects your payment to your GRG account number.

Meter readings
Online submissions of water meter readings are welcomed and can be provided via the below email address along with the accountholder’s name, contact details and GRG account number.

Consumers must please note the change in email address to meterreadings@george.gov.za.
Account related enquiries: accounts@george.gov.za

Bank Details for electronic payment (please note bank details changed 1 December 2020) The old account is being phased out so please amend as soon as possible. For now, it is still active, and payments made so far will have been received.

First National Bank (FNB)
Account Type: Public Sector Cheque Account
Account Name: George Municipality
Account Number: 62869623150
Branch Code: 210554
Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ

Reference: your GRG account number (please enter your account number without the GRG in front and without any spaces in-between)

Proof of payment to be sent to payments@george.gov.za

pay@ mobile applications
Download Masterpass, Snapscan or Zapper application on your mobile phone and complete your profile.

You can also use the following link for payment of your account:
https://payat.io/qr/11413

Prepaid electricity purchases
www.prepaid24.co.za
https://home.ontec.co.za
www.ipay.co.za

For prepaid enquiries please contact 044 873 5474.
General account related enquiries to accounts@george.gov.za or 044 801 9111.
Please provide your GRG account number with all enquiries.
Credit Control enquiries: 044 801 9111

MUNICIPAL COURT
The George Municipal Court is open to the public on weekdays 07h45 – 16h30 (Closed 13h00 – 13h45)
Representations can be emailed to abfelix@george.gov.za
Enquiries: 044 801 9400

UNIONDALE / HAARLEM
Administration Offices will remain open, and staff will work on rotational basis.
Uniondale – Cashier remains open on weekdays 08h00 – 16h30 (Closed 13h00 – 13h45)
Haarlem – Cashier open 08h00 – 15h30
Fire: 044 752 1225
Switchboard and fault reporting: 044 752 1024
Tourism: 044 518 0030
Haarlem: 044 763 1013
After hours: 044 801 6300

Sewerage Sucker Services extended for Festive Season

George Municipality is extending Sewerage Sucker services from today until 16 January for the Festive Season: Monday to Friday until 07h45 until 22h00

Weekends & Public Holidays from 08h00 until 19h00

SEWERAGE SUCTION TRUCK SERVICES: WHAT YOU MUST KNOW

Clients making use of George Municipality Sewerage Truck Services, please note:

• All operation and maintenance of on-site septic and conservancy tanks, and all costs related to it, are the responsibility of the property owner.

• The owner must check septic and conservancy tank levels regularly and book a service long enough in advance to avoid spillovers.

• Book your collection/cleaning of tanks at least five days in advance at the phone numbers below.

• Immediate response to emergency overflows cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability and scheduling of trucks.• Collection and cleaning of tanks after hours (16h30 until 22h00)

Times for Weekends and Public Holidays (08h00 until 19h00). Weekends and public holidays are more expensive than in working hours, as per municipal rates, and will only be done on confirmation by client that the after-hours fee is accepted.

Book your suction truck services on 044 801 9262/66.Uniondale: 044 752 1024 After hours: 044 801 6300






George Munisipaliteit verleng Rioolsuierdienste van vandag tot 16 Januarie vir die Feestyd: Maandag tot Vrydag 07h45 tot 22h00





Naweke & Openbare Vakansiedae vanaf 08h00 tot 19h00





RIOOLSUIGTROK-DIENSTE: WAT U MOET WEET





Kliënte wat van George Munisipaliteit se rioolsuigtrok-dienste gebruik maak, neem asseblief kennis:





• Die werking en instandhouding van septiese- en opgaartenke, en alle kostes wat daarmee verband hou, is die verantwoordelikheid van die grondeienaar.





• Die eienaar moet die vlakke van septiese en opgaartenke gereeld nagaan en ‘n diens lank vooruit bespreek om oorspoelings te vermy.





• Bepreek die uitsuig/skoonmaak van tenke ten minste vyf dae vooruit by die telefoonnommers hieronder.





• Onmiddellike reaksie in die geval van noodriooloorspoelings kan nie verseker word nie en hang van die beskikbaarheid en skedulering van suigtrokvoertuie af.





• Uitsuig of skoonmaak van tenke wat na-ure (16h30 until 22h00) 





 Tye vir naweke en Openbare Vakansiedae (08h00 tot 19h00).





Indien uitsuig en skoonmaak oor naweke en publieke vakansiedae plaasvind is dit duurder, soos per die munisipale tariewe, en sal slegs gedoen word indien die kliënt bevestig dat die na-ure fooi aanvaar word.





Bespreek u rioolsuigtrok-dienste by 044 801 9262/66.Uniondale: 044 752 1024 Na-ure: 044 801 6300


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							No alcohol tolerated on beaches
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

George Municipality will strictly enforce no alcohol allowed on our beaches and the George law enforcement officers are augmented by at least 30 Beach Monitors who started service as of the second week of December to assist with beach patrols and bag checks.
We encourage all beachgoers to assist our officials in ensuring that their day at the beach is a safe and pleasant experience. Neighbourhood Watches, Community Police Forums, George Traffic Services, Provincial Traffic Services as well as SAPS also work closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited on all beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay, Wilderness, and Leentjiesklip areas.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							Festive Lights switched on at Unity Park
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Festive Lights switched on at Unity Park





Mayor Leon van Wyk switched on the Festive Lights at Unity Park tonight. With him him are the Electrotechnical team that worked tirelessly to get the lights ready during wet and difficult weather conditions the past two weeks. Deputy Mayor of George, Cllr Raybin Figland, more Councillors and Acting Municipal Manager of George, Dr Michele Gratz, supported the mayor at the switch on.






George Municipality wants to bring good cheer and signal the start of our festive season by switching on our Christmas lights. Although no official event was planned for the official switching on of the lights this year, mainly due to COVID restrictions, the lights bring holiday cheer to tourists and residents alike.





George is a holiday town and tourism destination for many and the Mayor of George and Coucil wish everyone a happy and safe festive season. ISSUED BY GEORGE MUNICIPALITY 11 December 2021 at 20h26


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							ALERT:GEORGE AIRPORT ROAD TO THE N2, NOW OPEN AND SAFE TO USE
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

ALERT: MR347/404 GEORGE AIRPORT ROAD TO THE N2, NOW OPEN AND SAFE TO USE10 December 2021 at 17h00Issued by Garden Route District Municipality CommunicationsSince last week the Roads and Transport Planning Department of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) worked non-stop to repair the MR347/404 Road between the George Airport and the N2 highway.This followed the appearance of a sinkhole that was as a result of the torrential rain that largely impacted infrastructure in George and Oudtshoorn. Consequently, the section of the road from the entrance of Bargain Nursery and Elvis Brew to the entrance of the George Airport, was prioritised and repaired. Executive Manager for Roads and Transport Planning at GRDM, John Daniels, said: “Our Roads team worked non-stop since Wednesday, 1 December 2021, to repair the road. We know that this road gets extremely busy over the festive season as many visitors to our region arrive by plane. Two popular businesses would also have been severely impacted if we didn’t prioritise this project. We also want the experience of those visiting our region be the same as those who already reside here.””The road is now open and safe to use,” Daniels said.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							Public Notice: GEORGE MUNICIPALITY – APPLICATION FOR THE ERECTION OF POSTERS
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

 Issued by George Municipality 10 December 2021 for immediate release





George Municipality has with concern noticed that certain organisations/individuals continue to put up posters in George and surrounds without the necessary application and or approval.





Please take note it is illegal in terms of our Standard Bylaw regarding Streets (PK 565/1987) to put up posters in the George jurisdiction without prior permission of the Municipality. Organisations and individuals alike should further take note that there is an application process and deposits, and fees are payable. All requirements in the Bylaw need to be met and will be strictly enforced.





POSTERS THAT ARE ERECTED ILLEGALLY WILL BE REMOVED AND DESTROYED.





Permission for the erection of posters on lamp posts is granted, in accordance with the Regulation regarding Advertisement Signs and the Defacement of the Façade on the Forefront of Streets (PK 565/1958) and the Standard Bylaw regarding Streets (PK 565/1987) to: Individuals erecting posters for municipal and/or parliamentary elections and meetings; Political parties as well as the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to erect posters during the official IEC voter registration week/weekends; An institution which holds sports events on a provincial, national or international level; An institution that organises festivals which receive financial support from Council.





Only one poster per event may be displayed on a lamp post with the understanding that two posters may be positioned back-to-back. These posters may be positioned two weeks before an event and may only be fixed to the lamp posts by means of using rope or a similar material. No adhesive material may be used for this purpose. A maximum of 100 posters may be displayed in instances where sports events and festivals are taking place.





Posters must be removed on or before the fourth weekday after the event.





Wording of the poster must be factual and may not offend any person, race or belief. The municipality also retains the right to remove any poster without providing explanation, where such poster hinders the visibility of any traffic sign or if the Municipal Manager or Senior Manager: Corporate Services deems it ineligible for a poster to be displayed at a specific location.





Should an individual/organisation neglect to remove all posters that they have displayed, they will forfeit the deposit or a part thereof, depending on the costs involved in the removal of said posters. The Poster or the artwork must be submitted to the Senior Manager: Corporate Services for approval within a reasonable timeframe before it is displayed or erected.





The official stamp must be affixed on each of the approved posters once the applicable fees are paid.





For the application of posters please contact Dorothy Bredenkamp on 044 801 9108.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							Urgent public notice: NO SWIMMING at Gwaiing Beach until further notice
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Chief Fire Officer and Emergency Services for George, Neels Barnard, confirmed that Gwaiing beach is currently still closed for swimming. The beach had to be closed for swimming on Tuesday, 7 December 2021 due to large pieces of debris in the river mouth after Monday’s heavy rainfall. He said there are lifeguards stationed at the beach but no swimming will be allowed at this stage due to safety concerns.
The water is very deep at some points and debris are under the sand and sticking out from under the sand can cause serious injury to bathers. We will keep the public informed of any further developments.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							Girls Beach Day with Bianca Buitendag cancelled due to rising Covid-19 numbers
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Due to the rise in Covid 19 cases and the physical nature of the Girls Beach Day with Bianca Buitendag, it has been decided with great regret and in the interests of the health and safety of all participants, volunteers and staff, that the “Girls Beach Day with Bianca Buitendag”, on Saturday 11 December 2021, has been cancelled.





George Tourism and local Olympian surfer Bianca Buitendag teamed up earlier this year to host a fun, free community event. However, the nature of the event involved direct, physical contact between participants, volunteers and staff. The Girls Beach Day had little to no economic impact as it was a free event, with no external infrastructure required, and was focused on the local surfing community interacting predominantly with school children. Due to the announcement of the fourth wave, and in consultation with the George Municipality Disaster Management unit and key stakeholders, it was decided in the interests of public safety to cancel the event.





Lauren Waring, Director of Planning and Development at George Municipality, says “We are very disappointed but given the current situation we are grateful to Bianca and the surfing fraternity for taking a cautious approach. Whilst we all want to be able to enjoy our beautiful beaches and outdoors, we must take joint responsibility for ensuring the health of our community “. Buitendag added, “We were really hoping to have a fun and motivational morning with girls of all ages, centred around our amazing beach and surfing culture. We are so disappointed that the event cannot take place but in the current climate, it is unfortunately a known and real risk when planning an event. A special thanks to the Eden Surf Riders for their hard work and contribution. We wish the community of George a safe and festive Christmas season”.





Photos by Ian Thurtell


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							GO GEORGE schedules and hours during holiday season
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Issued 8 December 2021





All GO GEORGE services will continue throughout the holidays, with special provision for shoppers and employees at the Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander shopping centres where extended business hours will be implemented.





Later buses at Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander





On weekdays, from 13 to 31 December, the last two trips of the day on Route 12 Pacaltsdorp – Garden Route Mall will be delayed for 10 minutes to accommodate passengers who will be working until 19:00 during the festive season. The 19:00 trip to Pacaltsdorp will depart at 19:10, and the 19:20 trip at 19:30.





Public holidays





Buses will be running according to the Saturday schedule on 16 December and 1 January. The Sunday schedule will be followed on 25, 26 and 27 December.





Anyone needing assistance with trip planning can phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 – the agents take calls from 05:00 until 20:00, seven days a week, throughout the holiday season as well. 





Covid-19 safety





Passengers are once again reminded to adhere to the simple but effective Covid-19 safety measures required on the bus: wearing a mask covering both the mouth and nose, sanitising or washing of hands, keeping a safe distance where possible, and very importantly: keeping bus windows open for good ventilation.





CAPTION:





Make sure that your face mask covers both your mouth and nose for maximum protection – the virus tends to attach itself to certain cells in the nose.





Afrikaans op volgende bladsy





PERSVRYSTELLING: GO GEORGE-ure en -skedules gedurende vakansieseisoen





Uitgereik 8 Des 2021





Alle GO GEORGE-dienste sal regdeur die vakansie voortgaan, met spesiale voorsiening vir kliënte en werknemers by die Garden Route Mall en Eden Meander-winkelsentrums waar verlengde besigheidsure geïmplementeer sal word.





Later busse by Garden Route Mall en Eden Meander





Op weeksdae, van 13 tot 30 Desember, sal die laaste twee ritte van die dag op Roete 12 Pacaltsdorp – Garden Route Mall met 10 minute uitgestel word om passasiers te akkommodeer wat tot 19:00 werk tydens die feesseisoen. Die 19:00-rit na Pacaltsdorp sal om 19:10 vertrek, en die 19:20-rit om 19:30.





Openbare vakansiedae 





Busse sal op 16 Desember en 1 Januarie die Saterdagskedule volg terwyl die Sondagskedule op 25, 26 en 27 Desember sal geld.  





Enigiemand wat hulp benodig met ritbeplanning is welkom om die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel – die agente neem oproepe van 05:00 tot 20:00, sewe dae per week, regdeur die vakansieseisoen.





Covid-19-veiligheid





Passasiers word weereens daaraan herinner om te voldoen aan die eenvoudige maar doeltreffende Covid-19-veiligheidsmaatreëls wat op die bus vereis word: die dra van ‘n masker wat beide die mond en neus bedek, ontsmet of was van hande, handhawing van ‘n veilige afstand waar moontlik, en baie belangrik: oop busvensters vir goeie ventilasie.





ONDERSKRIF:





Maak seker dat jou gesigmasker jou mond sowel as jou neus bedek vir maksimum beskerming – die virus is geneig om aan sekere selle in die neus vas te heg.





PRESS RELEASE: GO GEORGE schedules and hours during holiday season





Issued 8 December 2021





All GO GEORGE services will continue throughout the holidays, with special provision for shoppers and employees at the Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander shopping centres where extended business hours will be implemented.





Later buses at Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander





On weekdays, from 13 to 31 December, the last two trips of the day on Route 12 Pacaltsdorp – Garden Route Mall will be delayed for 10 minutes to accommodate passengers who will be working until 19:00 during the festive season. The 19:00 trip to Pacaltsdorp will depart at 19:10, and the 19:20 trip at 19:30.





Public holidays





Buses will be running according to the Saturday schedule on 16 December and 1 January. The Sunday schedule will be followed on 25, 26 and 27 December.





Anyone needing assistance with trip planning can phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 – the agents take calls from 05:00 until 20:00, seven days a week, throughout the holiday season as well. 





Covid-19 safety





Passengers are once again reminded to adhere to the simple but effective Covid-19 safety measures required on the bus: wearing a mask covering both the mouth and nose, sanitising or washing of hands, keeping a safe distance where possible, and very importantly: keeping bus windows open for good ventilation.





CAPTION:





Make sure that your face mask covers both your mouth and nose for maximum protection – the virus tends to attach itself to certain cells in the nose.





Afrikaans op volgende bladsy





PERSVRYSTELLING: GO GEORGE-ure en -skedules gedurende vakansieseisoen





Uitgereik 8 Des 2021





Alle GO GEORGE-dienste sal regdeur die vakansie voortgaan, met spesiale voorsiening vir kliënte en werknemers by die Garden Route Mall en Eden Meander-winkelsentrums waar verlengde besigheidsure geïmplementeer sal word.





Later busse by Garden Route Mall en Eden Meander





Op weeksdae, van 13 tot 30 Desember, sal die laaste twee ritte van die dag op Roete 12 Pacaltsdorp – Garden Route Mall met 10 minute uitgestel word om passasiers te akkommodeer wat tot 19:00 werk tydens die feesseisoen. Die 19:00-rit na Pacaltsdorp sal om 19:10 vertrek, en die 19:20-rit om 19:30.





Openbare vakansiedae 





Busse sal op 16 Desember en 1 Januarie die Saterdagskedule volg terwyl die Sondagskedule op 25, 26 en 27 Desember sal geld.  





Enigiemand wat hulp benodig met ritbeplanning is welkom om die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel – die agente neem oproepe van 05:00 tot 20:00, sewe dae per week, regdeur die vakansieseisoen.





Covid-19-veiligheid





Passasiers word weereens daaraan herinner om te voldoen aan die eenvoudige maar doeltreffende Covid-19-veiligheidsmaatreëls wat op die bus vereis word: die dra van ‘n masker wat beide die mond en neus bedek, ontsmet of was van hande, handhawing van ‘n veilige afstand waar moontlik, en baie belangrik: oop busvensters vir goeie ventilasie.





ONDERSKRIF:





Maak seker dat jou gesigmasker jou mond sowel as jou neus bedek vir maksimum beskerming – die virus is geneig om aan sekere selle in die neus vas te heg.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							10 Point Holiday Check for your car!
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Just as we all need our health checks annually, it is a good idea to have your vehicle checked before departing on a long trip. The George Municipal Vehicle Testing Station will be open on 13th (10h00 -15h30, 14th and 15th December (08h30 -15h30), and again 3rd, 4th and 5th January 2022 (08h30 -15h30), for a free 10 Point Check of your vehicle.





Bring your vehicle to our VTS on the corner of Hibernia Street on the dates listed above and please note the policy will be first come first served.






The 10 Point inspection includes:





  • Identification of vehicle
  • Lights
  • Equipment and Body structure
  • Braking Systems 
  • Wheels and Tyres
  • Suspension and undercarriage 
  • Steering 
  • Oil leaks
  • Exhaust System
  • Transmission 





The full inspection will take approximately 10 minutes and you will be free to go with a clear bill of health – or know that something needs to be repaired before you leave for that long drive.





Safety is our first priority – make use of the opportunity to ensure you and your family travel safely this festive season.





SAFETY TIPS





Check that vehicle is roadworthy before you start your journey 





Carry the necessary equipment and tools to assist you on the road in case of breakdown 





Have enough rest before you start your journey and take a rest every 2 hours 





Adhere to all road signs and rules of the road





Maintain a safe following distance





Adhere to and stay within the speed limits





Follow instructions that are given by Law enforcement or Traffic Officials





No overloading of passengers because it affects the braking system of the vehicle





Have the necessary contact numbers in case of emergency





Be patient towards other road users 


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							Mayoral Festive Message 2021
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

The year 2021 has provided further challenges for all of us.





The Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on all our lives, with many citizens being affected through illness along with families and friends losing loved ones. The economy has been harmed with some sectors suffering more than others. Jobs and employment opportunities have been lost leaving many families destitute. The Municipality has within its means, provided assistance to vulnerable residents experiencing hunger, the loss of dignity and increased levels of concern about safety. As at the end of November we are faced with risks about a further wave of the pandemic. We therefore need to continue to take the necessary precautions to remain safe. 





During 2021 various actions have been taken within the Municipality to improve levels of service delivery, improve management capacity and to attend to infrastructure maintenance and improvements in capacity to allow for increases in economic activity.





As we approach our traditional holiday season, we have taken note of the numerous positive signals where sectors of the economy are embarking on efforts to rebuild the economic activity. It is therefore important that we all assist our broader tourism sector in the recovery phase.





We wish to thank all our employees and our citizens for all their sacrifices and patience during this year as we learn more about the “new normal” behavioural patterns. We also welcome all holidaymakers and visitors to George over the summer holiday season and wish them excellent weather, safety (on the roads and while swimming) and good times enjoyed with friends and family.





We should all remember to adhere to the health and safety guidelines during the holiday season. We are all together as we face these challenges. Where possible, we should assist those less fortunate than ourselves. We send good wishes to all residents and visitors.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							GO GEORGE commemorates 7 years of high-tech service to the George community
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Issued 7 Dec 2021





Seven years ago, the first scheduled buses of George’s own public bus service departed from the York Street depot at 05:00 on 8 December 2014, rolling out Phase 1 of the George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN).





Today, 24 of the planned routes have already been activated and are covering a network of 142 km, crisscrossing the streets of George, enabling residents to travel to work, school, medical and community services and shops anywhere in town.





“Although there have been many challenges along the way and we would have loved to have made further progress with more roll-outs to date, we are very proud of what we have achieved thus far,” says GO GEORGE Manager, James Robb. “Apart from the dedicated and hard-working workforce behind the bus service, the advanced level of technology keeping this intricate system running, is constantly developing and being customised to suit the needs of a top-class, scheduled public bus service such as GO GEORGE.”





Intelligent Transport System





The GIPTN has an Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that allows real-time remote monitoring of route and timetable adherence as well as several other operational performance indicators such as speeding, harsh braking and acceleration, and emergency calls from drivers. The system provides alerts in respect of deviations from any of the prescribed parameters and keeps an ongoing record of the mileage, idling times, standing times, etc. of all vehicles.





In parallel with vehicle tracking, buses are also fitted with on-vehicle cameras, linked to a tracking device, that allow the observation of the bus interior and “road ahead” views.





The ITS monitoring facility is based in the GIPTN control centre, in the same space as the GO GEORGE Call Centre, allowing real-time feedback to passengers phoning in, as well as the functionality to track older footage to investigate complaints. As the system is reliant on constant connectivity, there are, however, periods of frustration when service cannot be provided at the preferred level and speed, as is the case with many local businesses having to deal with unstable internet connection.





Vandalism





“A very sad reality of our operations is the constant vandalising of our buses and infrastructure,” says Robb. “The on-board cameras are definitely helpful in this regard and should act as deterrent for this kind of behaviour, but still, we do not see the decline one would expect. We are rolling out a focused anti-vandalism campaign this month and are aiming to change people’s attitude and get communities’ direct involvement in the new year, to help us stop vandalism.”





Automated Fare Collection





The GO GEORGE Automated Fare Collection (AFC) system replaced the interim paper ticket late in 2018. With over three years of operations, the AFC System has created a cashless tap-on solution that allows passengers to travel conveniently on the GO GEORGE bus service using their personal Smart Card.





Linked to the ITS, the AFC system is providing valuable insights that are being used to improve the quality of the GO GEORGE service for the commuters. Some of these insights include:





  • A better understanding of passenger travelling patterns to improve planning and ensure that bus scheduling decisions align with passenger demand data.
  • A more data-driven improvement of the Smart Card products sold using the AFC system to ensure that it meets the needs of passengers.
  • Development of strategic top-up vendor and mobile kiosk deployment to areas where boarding is high and trip top-up facilities low.





Digital fuel management system





At the George Link depot, three on-site diesel tanks with a combined capacity of 69 000 litres have been installed in 2018.





John Heathcote, George Link Operational Manager, says the saving to the Municipality by refuelling on site instead of driving several kilometres to do so at an outside vendor at the end of every day, is about R90 000 per month.





“We now fill up on site at the end of each shift. Managing the stock and consumption through a digital system allows me to be on top of everything from anywhere in the country through an application on my smartphone or laptop computer. Downloading the data in spreadsheet format, I can check each refill by bus fleet number, driver’s and fuel attendant’s identity and the amount of fuel that was taken in, from which pump,” Heathcote says.





This constant eye on the fuel consumption of each vehicle as well as on the driver handling the bus on that shift, also alerts management to excessive consumption which might call for a mechanical check-up or a look into the driver’s skills in terms of fuel economy.





People remain the core of the service





“Even though all the technological aids sound impressive, we are acutely aware that at the core of our services lie the attitude, dedication and perseverance of an amazing team of humans,” says Robb.





“There is often a perception that the system is designed and run by people who are far removed from the ground but in reality, every one of our team members spend many hours in the field every week, observing passenger behaviour and movement out on routes. This includes the entire management team – we are constantly reviewing data from reports, keeping an eye on complaints or requests coming through.





“There’s a drive and an effort across the organisation not to plan routes and schedules on a piece of paper, but to assess and walk things out on site, to touch and feel and see what the passenger would. We may not get it right all the time, but every challenge makes us want to try harder and do better to serve our community.”





CAPTION:





GO GEORGE and George Link management and staff gathered at the George Transport Hub in high spirits to sing “Happy birthday, GO GEORGE!”





GO GEORGE herdenk 7 jaar van hoë-tegnologie diens aan die George-gemeenskap





Uitgereik 7 Des 2021





Sewe jaar gelede het die eerste geskeduleerde busse van George se eie openbare busdiens op 8 Desember 2014 om 05:00 uit die Yorkstraat-depot vertrek en Fase 1 van die George Geïntegreerde Openbare Vervoernetwerk (GIPTN) uitgerol.





Vandag is 24 van die beplande roetes reeds geaktiveer en dek dit ‘n netwerk van 142 km wat die strate van George deurkruis en inwoners in staat stel om werk en skool toe as ook na mediese- en gemeenskapsdienste en winkels oral in die dorp te ry.





“Hoewel daar baie uitdagings langs die pad was en ons baie graag verder gevorderd sou wou wees, met meer fases uitgerol, is ons is baie trots op wat ons tot dusver bereik het,” sê GO GEORGE-bestuurder, James Robb. “Afgesien van die toegewyde en hardwerkende arbeidsmag agter die busdiens, word die gevorderde vlak van tegnologie wat hierdie ingewikkelde stelsel aan die gang hou, voortdurend ontwikkel en aangepas om aan die behoeftes van ‘n topklas, geskeduleerde openbare busdiens soos GO GEORGE te voldoen.”





Intelligente vervoerstelsel





Die GIPTN het ‘n Intelligente Vervoerstelsel (ITS) wat intydse afstandsmonitering van roete- en roosternakoming moontlik maak, asook verskeie ander operasionele gedragsaanwysers soos spoed, harde rem en -versnelling, en noodoproepe van bestuurders. Die stelsel vertoon waarskuwings ten opsigte van afwykings van enige van die voorgeskrewe grense en hou ‘n deurlopende rekord van die kilometers, luiertye, wagtye, ensovoorts van alle voertuie.





Samelopend met voertuigopsporing, is busse ook toegerus met kameras op die voertuie wat gekoppel is aan ‘n opsporingstoestel wat die waarneming van die binnekant van die bus en die pad voor die bus moontlik maak.





Die ITS-moniteringsfasiliteit is gebaseer in die GIPTN-beheersentrum, in dieselfde ruimte as die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum wat intydse terugvoering aan inbellers kan bied, asook die funksionaliteit om ouer beeldmateriaal op te spoor om klagtes te ondersoek. Aangesien die stelsel afhanklik is van konstante konnektiwiteit, is daar egter periodes van frustrasie wanneer diens nie op die verkose vlak en teen die nodige spoed verskaf kan word nie, soos die geval is met baie plaaslike besighede wat onstabiele internetverbinding moet hanteer.





Vandalisme





“‘n Baie hartseer werklikheid van ons bedrywighede is die konstante vandalisering van ons busse en infrastruktuur,” sê Robb. “Die kameras aan boord is beslis nuttig in hierdie verband en moet as afskrikmiddel vir hierdie soort gedrag dien, maar ons sien steeds nie die afname wat ‘n mens sou verwag nie. Ons ontplooi vandeesmaand ‘n gefokusde anti-vandalisme-veldtog en mik om mense se houding te verander en in die nuwe jaar gemeenskappe se direkte betrokkenheid te kry om ons te help om vandalisme te stop.”





Outomatiese tariefinvordering





Die outomatiese GO GEORGE-tariefinvorderingstelsel het die tussentydse papierkaartjie laat in 2018 vervang. Met meer as drie jaar in bedryf het die stelsel ‘n kontantlose skanderingsfunksie ontwikkel wat passasiers toelaat om die GO GEORGE-busdiens gerieflik te gebruik deur hul persoonlike Slimkaart te skandeer.





Gekoppel aan die ITS, bied hierdie stelsel waardevolle insigte wat gebruik word om die gehalte van die GO GEORGE-diens vir die passasiers te verbeter. Sommige van hierdie insigte sluit in:





  • ‘n Beter begrip van passasiers se reispatrone om beplanning te verbeter en te verseker dat busskeduleringsbesluite in lyn is met passasiersaanvraag.
  • ‘n Meer datagedrewe verbetering van die Slimkaartprodukte met behulp van die stelsel om te verseker dat dit voldoen aan die behoeftes van passasiers.
  • Ontwikkeling van strategiese ontplooiing van herlaaipunte en mobiele kiosks na gebiede waar opklimsyfers hoog is, en herlaaifasiliteite laag.





Digitale brandstofbestuurstelsel





George Link, die voertuigbedrysmaatskappy, het in 2018 drie dieseltenks met ‘n gesamentlike kapasiteit van 69 000 liter by die busdepot laat installeer.





John Heathcote, bedryfsbestuurder van George Link, sê die besparing aan die munisipaliteit deur op die perseel te hervul in plaas daarvan om etlike kilometers te ry om dit aan die einde van elke dag by ‘n buiteverkoper te doen, is sowat R90 000 per maand.





“Ons hervul nou op die terrein aan die einde van elke skof. Die bestuur van die voorraad en brandstofverbruik deur ‘n digitale stelsel laat my toe om deur ‘n toepassing op my slimfoon of skootrekenaar op hoogte van alles te bly vanaf enige plek in die land. Deur die data in sigbladformaat af te laai, kan ek elke hervulling nagaan deur middel van die busvlootnommer, die drywer en brandstofjoggie se identiteit, en die hoeveelheid brandstof wat ingeneem is, en uit watter pomp,” sê Heathcote.





Hierdie konstante oog op die brandstofverbruik van elke voertuig sowel as op die bestuurder wat die bus op daardie skof hanteer, waarsku ook die bestuur van oormatige verbruik wat ‘n meganiese ondersoek of die nagaan van die bestuurder se vaardighede in terme van brandstofekonomie kan vereis.





“Hoewel al die tegnologiese hulpmiddels indrukwekkend klink, is ons deeglik bewus daarvan dat die kern van ons diens in die houding, toewyding en deursettingsvermoë van ‘n ongelooflike span mense lê,” sê Robb.





“Daar is dikwels ‘n persepsie dat die stelsel ontwerp en bestuur word deur mense wat ver van grondvlak verwyder is, maar in werklikheid spandeer elkeen van ons spanlede elke week baie ure in die veld met waarneming van passasiersgedrag en beweging op roetes. Dit sluit die hele bestuurspan in – ons hou voortdurend data van verslae dop, asook klagtes of versoeke wat deurkom.





“Daar is ‘n dryfkrag en ‘n poging regoor die organisasie om nie roetes en skedules op ‘n stuk papier te beplan nie, maar om dinge op die terrein te evalueer en uit te tree, aan te raak en te voel en te sien wat die passasier sou doen. Ons kry dit dalk nie die hele tyd reg nie, maar elke uitdaging maak dat ons harder wil probeer en beter wil doen om ons gemeenskap te dien.”





ONDERSKRIF:





GO GEORGE- en George Link-bestuurslede en personeel het in vrolike luim by die George-vervoerkern (Transport Hub) bymekaargekom om ‘n verjaarsdagliedjie vir GO GEORGE te sing.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							Blue flag hoisted today!
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Blue flag hoisted today!





Issued George Municipality, 8 December 2021





George Municipality is proud to announce the blue flag was hoisted today at Wilderness Beach, and a pilot blue flag at Herold’s Bay. Wilderness Beach has full Blue Flag status and Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay both gained Pilot status.





Blue Flag is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA).Following heavy rains on Monday, 6 December 2021 and flash floods of Monday 22nd November our cleansing teams have been working non-stop every day to remove debris from the beaches. The teams are still working at Victoria Bay.Blue Flag status offers many benefits including improved tourism facilities, enhanced management of coastal ecosystems, increased awareness of the coast and capacity building of coastal municipalities as well as carrying significant international merit. The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2022. Compliance includes high standards of water quality monitoring, public safety and lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities. South Africa has participated in the Blue Flag programme since 2001.





Captions: Selenas: Acting Supervisor at Wilderness Beach, Virgil Carolus (far right) with our EPWP employees this morning (8 December 2021) with the hoisted Blue flag at Wilderness Beach.Caption





John Magwa Supervisor in Herold’s Bay with the pilot Blue Flag at the beach.





Cleaning crews from George Municipality Community Services cleaned the beach at Wilderness and Leentjiesklip until late yesterday. Teams are still clearing Victoria Bay beach of debris after heavy rainfall on Monday to be able to hoist the pilot Blue Flag at the beach.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
	
	

		

            
		
	

	


						
						

							George Municipality celebrates International Day of Persons with Disabilities, HIV/Aids Day and 16 Days of Activism in Herold
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Issued by George Municipality 8 December 2021 for immediate release





George Municipality Gender and Disability subsection hosted a joint event in Herold last week to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, HIV/Aids Day and 16 Days of Activism. The subsection joined with the Department of Health as well as the local communities to have a one day event.





The department of Health did HIV testing, vaccinations, eye testing and prostate cancer testing on the day. The George Municipality would also like to thank the local VGK church, Franken Primary School and the farmers in the area  who greatly assisted in the event and made sure the event is a success. The HIV/Aids subsection of George Municipality played educational games with the children in the community and did face painting with them to make the day more enjoyable.





16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign (16 Days Campaign) is a United Nations campaign which takes place annually from 25 November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day). Other key commemorative days during this period include World Aids Day on the 1st of December and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, on 3 December of every year.





Her1: Speaker of George Council, Cllr Sean Snyman and Ejustley Boshoff, Coordinator of the Gender and Disability subsection, Community Services lighting a candle in Herold in remembrance of all that passed away due to abuse and HIV-related illnesses.





Her 2: Ejustley Boshoff, Coordinator of the Gender and Disability subsection, Community Services, draws a funny face with face paint on a child’s face at the event in Herold.





Her 3: Officials from George Municipality get the children ready for games at the event.





Heading: George Municipality celebrates International Day of Persons with Disabilities, HIV/Aids Day and 16 Days of Activism in Herold





Issued by George Municipality 8 December 2021 for immediate release





George Municipality Gender and Disability subsection hosted a joint event in Herold last week to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, HIV/Aids Day and 16 Days of Activism. The subsection joined with the Department of Health as well as the local communities to have a one day event.





The department of Health did HIV testing, vaccinations, eye testing and prostate cancer testing on the day. The George Municipality would also like to thank the local VGK church, Franken Primary School and the farmers in the area  who greatly assisted in the event and made sure the event is a success. The HIV/Aids subsection of George Municipality played educational games with the children in the community and did face painting with them to make the day more enjoyable.





16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign (16 Days Campaign) is a United Nations campaign which takes place annually from 25 November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day). Other key commemorative days during this period include World Aids Day on the 1st of December and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, on 3 December of every year.





Her1: Speaker of George Council, Cllr Sean Snyman and Ejustley Boshoff, Coordinator of the Gender and Disability subsection, Community Services lighting a candle in Herold in remembrance of all that passed away due to abuse and HIV-related illnesses.





Her 2: Ejustley Boshoff, Coordinator of the Gender and Disability subsection, Community Services, draws a funny face with face paint on a child’s face at the event in Herold.





Her 3: Officials from George Municipality get the children ready for games at the event.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							PUBLIC NOTICE: George Municipality Finance (Ground floor) including Cashier hall closed today from 12h00 until 14h30 for precautionary covid related measures
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

PUBLIC NOTICE: George Municipality Finance (Ground floor) including Cashier hall will be closed today from 12h00 until 14h30 for precautionary covid related measures
Issued George Municipality, 7 December 2021
Please take note that the Finance Department (Ground floor) will close at 12h30 today and the Cashier hall at 12h00 noon, due to precautionary covid related measures. The premises will be closed for 2 hours. The Cashier hall will be open to the public from 14h30 until 15h30.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							Urgent public notice: NO SWIMMING at Gwaiing Beach until further notice
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

Urgent public notice: NO SWIMMING at Gwaiing Beach until further notice
Chief Fire Officer and Emergency Services for George, Neels Barnard closed Gwaiing beach for swimming today due to large pieces of debris in the river mouth after yesterday’s heavy rainfall. He said there are lifeguards stationed at the beach but no swimming will be allowed at this stage due to safety concerns.
He said the area is very dangerous for swimming at this stage as the water is very dark and the mouth is three meters deep at some points. We will keep the public informed of any developments. Issued by George Mun 7 Dec 2021 at 09h00


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							PUBLIC ALERT: Update on heavy rainfall
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

PUBLIC ALERT: Update on heavy rainfall





Issued George Mun, 6th December @ 16h00





Heavy rainfall this morning resulted in a number of roads throughout George being under water and flooding of private structures.





ROAD STATUS/STORMWATER
Wellington Road – one lane open (sewerage pipe that is being addressed)
Saasveld Road – a fallen tree on the Wilderness side has been cleared.
Water has generally subsided elsewhere on all roads.
Only a few homes experienced damages due to stormwater problems in Uniondale and Haarlem.






POWER OUTAGES
Victoria Bay – portion off while repairs are being done.
Wilderness heights – Strydom line and portion of Wilderness Heights line currently off. Tree on the line, electricians are on site and busy isolating the problem for repairs to be done. This affects 9 farms.
Wilderness CBD, Wilderness Heights, Wilderness East, Ebb and Flow and Map of Africa also experiencing power outage currently. Electricians will give an assessment soon.





FLOODING
Several formal structures (23) have been reported as flooded or suffering water damage. Our Emergency Services has provided sandbags where possible.
Two informal structures have had water damage in Blanco and house in Maraiskamp. George Municipality Human Settlements have been inundated with requests for gunplast.





REFUSE REMOVAL
Refuse removal continues as scheduled for today unless there is a heavy downpour again then work might be delayed for the duration of the heavy rain. We will keep the public informed of any major changes.





REFUSE REMOVAL MONDAY: Blanco, Riverlea, Heatherpark, Heatherlands, Glen Barrie, Kraaibosch, Groenkloof, Blue Mountain Village, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Rondevlei area (George side).
More rainfall is expected throughout the day. Updates will be posted to social media as they become available.


											

					

					
	
	
	


				

			

			

		
			
			

				


					
					


						
						
						

							Mayor’s newsletter for George Herald of 2 December 2021
						

						

					

					

					
					

						
							

The first week of office for the new Council has required focussing on the damage of the 22 November storm and flooding that coincided with the Council meeting to elect and inaugurate the office bearers. After the conclusion of the meeting the acting municipal manager and I joined the fire chief as night fell on a tour of areas where significant damage occurred.





I thought it might be worthwhile to provide some insight into the “behind the scenes” operations.





On Tuesday and Wednesday we concentrated on the Oewer Street 500mm pipe-burst that was precipitated by the floodwaters engulfing the southern bank of the Kat River. The contractors brought in an excavator to work on the unstable and muddy bank. Part of that repair required bringing in stone and gravel to provide a stable base for the replacement pipe and constructing gabions to protect the newly-laid pipe. At one stage, our new incident command vehicle was placed on the driveway of a private house. This was the base from where some decisions were being made on what tools and equipment had to be sourced to use in the muddy hole to ensure that the pipe jointing could take place smoothly.





With a key pipeline in the network out of use, it also appeared from the continuing water loss on the system that there was another breakage at a location that had not yet been detected. This meant that the lines had to be walked to ultimately locate the break in an isolated wooded area. At the same time there are key roleplayers in the dairy industry who are critically reliant on their daily water supply being delivered within certain pressure tolerances. All available water tankers, including some being rented in or borrowed, were being used to give our residents access to much needed water.





Once the pipelines had been repaired the emphasis shifted to refilling George’s 900 km water pipeline network and the various reservoirs while also removing air-locks. On Friday morning some critical decisions had to be made to balance water availability and pressure in the network to ensure that most areas across George had water without reservoirs running empty. This balancing process required constant adjustment and management over the weekend.





In simple terms George can treat up to 40 Ml (40 million litres) per day with daily usage normally at 30-31 Ml. The outage that we had experienced over Monday through Thursday had depleted our reservoirs and the minimum buffer of 48 hours’ supply. The daily difference between water treated and used is the equivalent of 6 hours’ supply and painstakingly helps to restore the necessary reserves and pressure levels day by day.





Mayor’s newsletter for George Herald of 2 December 2021





The first week of office for the new Council has required focussing on the damage of the 22 November storm and flooding that coincided with the Council meeting to elect and inaugurate the office bearers. After the conclusion of the meeting the acting municipal manager and I joined the fire chief as night fell on a tour of areas where significant damage occurred.





I thought it might be worthwhile to provide some insight into the “behind the scenes” operations.





On Tuesday and Wednesday we concentrated on the Oewer Street 500mm pipe-burst that was precipitated by the floodwaters engulfing the southern bank of the Kat River. The contractors brought in an excavator to work on the unstable and muddy bank. Part of that repair required bringing in stone and gravel to provide a stable base for the replacement pipe and constructing gabions to protect the newly-laid pipe. At one stage, our new incident command vehicle was placed on the driveway of a private house. This was the base from where some decisions were being made on what tools and equipment had to be sourced to use in the muddy hole to ensure that the pipe jointing could take place smoothly.





With a key pipeline in the network out of use, it also appeared from the continuing water loss on the system that there was another breakage at a location that had not yet been detected. This meant that the lines had to be walked to ultimately locate the break in an isolated wooded area. At the same time there are key roleplayers in the dairy industry who are critically reliant on their daily water supply being delivered within certain pressure tolerances. All available water tankers, including some being rented in or borrowed, were being used to give our residents access to much needed water.





Once the pipelines had been repaired the emphasis shifted to refilling George’s 900 km water pipeline network and the various reservoirs while also removing air-locks. On Friday morning some critical decisions had to be made to balance water availability and pressure in the network to ensure that most areas across George had water without reservoirs running empty. This balancing process required constant adjustment and management over the weekend.





In simple terms George can treat up to 40 Ml (40 million litres) per day with daily usage normally at 30-31 Ml. The outage that we had experienced over Monday through Thursday had depleted our reservoirs and the minimum buffer of 48 hours’ supply. The daily difference between water treated and used is the equivalent of 6 hours’ supply and painstakingly helps to restore the necessary reserves and pressure levels day by day.