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Author: Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe

Planned Electricity Supply Interruption: Portion of Pacaltsdorp

PLANNED ELECTRICITY SUPPLY INTERRUPTION: PORTION OF PACALTSDORP

THE FOLLOWING AREAS WILL BE AFFECTED:
PORTION OF PACALTSDORP
PLANTATION STREET.

NOTICE is hereby given that the electricity supply will be interrupted on WEDNESDAY 06 MARCH 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00 for the purpose of doing alterations to the electrical mains. Consumers are warned to treat the installation as being live for the full duration as the supply may be resumed at any time within the notified period.

Should circumstances prevent the work being carried out during the abovementioned period; the work will be done on THURSDAY 07 MARCH 2024 FROM 09H00 TO 16H00.

BEPLANDE ELEKTRISITEITSTOEVOER ONDERBREKING: GEDEELTE VAN PACALTSDORP

DIE VOLGENDE AREAS SAL GERAAK WORD:
GEEDELTE VAN PACALTSDORP
PLANTASIE STRAAT.

KENNISGEWING geskied hiermee dat die elektriese toevoer onderbreek sal word op WOENSDAG 06 MAART 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00 met die doel om veranderings aan elektriese hoofleidings te maak. Klante word gewaarsku om die installasie as lewendig te beskou vir die volle periode aangesien die toevoer enige tyd gedurende die periode aangeskakel mag word.

Sou omstandighede verhoed dat die werk gedoen kan word gedurende bogenoemde periode, sal die werk gedoen word op DONDERDAG 07 MAART 2024 VANAF 09H00 TOT 16H00.

Unexpected Power Outage in Zone 8, Thembalethu

UPDATE: Unexpected Power Outage in Zone 8, Thembalethu
Issued by George Municipality, 29 February 2024 @12:00

An unexpected power outage has affected Zone 8 and the vicinity around All Brick since last night. The delay in repairs is attributed to addressing illegal connections in the area. The estimated time of repair is 3 hours.

The Municipality regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience as we work to restore the power supply.

UPDATE: Unexpected Power Outage in Parts of Parkdene, Ballots Bay and Thembalethu

UPDATE: Unexpected Power Outage in Parts of Parkdene, Ballots Bay and Thembalethu
Issued by George Municipality, 28 February 2024 @20:15

The power supply to potions of Parkdene, Ballots Bay and Zones 1, 2, 3 and 4 has been restored.

However, Zone 8 and the area adjacent to All Brick which is also experiencing an unexpected power outage will remain off for the rest of the night due to illegal connections that can only be removed tomorrow as a safety precautionary measure.

***

UNEXPECTED POWER OUTAGE IN PARTS OF PARKDENE, BALLOTS BAY AND THEMBALETHU
Issued by George Municipality, 28 February 2024 @19:55

An unexpected power outage occurred affecting parts of Parkdene Ballots Bay, and Zones 1,2,3 and 4 in Thembalethu. Electricians have been dispatched to investigate. The estimated time of repair is not available yet.

Unexpected pipe burst in Herold’s Bay

Issued by George Municipality, 28 Feb 2024 @19:45

A pipe burst at the corner of Slaapplek & Skuinsbank Streets in Herolds Bay. The estimated time of repair is 5 hours. A water truck is being dispatched and is roaming at Skuinsbank. It will later be stationed at the corner of Slaapplek & Skuinsbank Streets

George Municipality Recognises 35 Years of Dedicated Service

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Construction Work at Victoria and Mitchell Streets

Construction Work at Victoria and Mitchell Streets

Residents and businesses are advised that there will be construction work taking place along the road reserves of parts of Victoria and Mitchell Streets as highlighted in red on the attached aerial photo from the beginning of March 2024 to the end of June 2024.

This work is required for the upgrading of the existing 11kV cable. It will include trenching and backfilling, and breaking up and repairing tarred, concrete or brick paved driveways and parking lots. It will be ensured that trenching across driveways is re-instated the same day. Trenching across parking lots will be done in sections.

Direct notices will be given, and arrangements made in person a week in advance to residents and businesses whose driveways and/or parking lots are going to be directly affected.

The Municipality apologises for the inconvenience and thanks all residents for their co-operation.

PROJECT ENQUIRIES: Mr Mzwanele Gatyeni– 044 874 3917

Eskom Loadshedding Update: 27 February 2024

Tuesday, 27 February 2024: Due to sustained adequate emergency reserves to manage the evening peak and electricity demand, Stage 2 loadshedding will continue to be implemented until further notice. Stage 3 loadshedding will NOT be implemented as previously communicated. Eskom will communicate should any significant changes occur.

George will be affected as follows:
Tuesday 27/02/2024
18:00 – 20:30

Wednesday 28/02/2024
02:00 – 04:30

Thursday 29/02/2024
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30

Friday 01/03/2024
14:00 – 16:30
22:00 – 00:30

Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Tuesday 27/02/2024
21:00 – 23:30

Wednesday 28/02/2024
05:00 – 07:30

Thursday 29/02/2024
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30

Friday 01/03/2024
17:00 – 19:30

ROTATIONAL SWITCH ON AFTER LOADSHEDDING
Consumers are reminded to PLEASE use electricity sparingly after power returns. Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load shedding.

Consumers are urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding is scheduled to return. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network.

Reporting power outages
Please do not phone the after-hours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after load shedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on i.e. areas are switched on one by one and not all at the same time to avoid overloading the system. Please wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The Electrotechnical Directorate will be aware of a possible substation trip that needs to be sorted out.

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

George Municipality Addresses Homelessness Through Holistic Approach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Garden Route Dam Level

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL
Issued 20 February 2024, George Municipality

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 89,72
Rainfall for the previous 7 days: 20.5 mm (Measured up to and including 20 February 2024)

The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.

Mayor’s Newsletter for the week ended 23 February 2024

Alderman Leon van Wyk, Executive Mayor of George

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alderman Leon van Wyk
Executive of George

George Tourism Host Successful Events Support and Compliance Workshop

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

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

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

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

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

The event saw an impressive turnout, with a full house indicating the keen interest

Alien Invasive Plant Awareness Campaign – Cotoneaster

Municipal Plant of the Month – Cotoneaster: (glaucophyllus), (simonsii), (pannosus (Silver leaf)) and (salicifolius).

An upright or arching shrub (usually growing 3-5m tall) with many branching stems. Younger branches are reddish-brown with fine hairs; older branches become hairless and turn grey or dark brown. It flowers in white clusters in spring and summer. The flower stalk is densely hairy. The fruit, which is small and globe-shaped, turns orange-red, scarlet or a dull deep red when mature.

Invasive status: Listed as a Category 1b invasive weed, it is a habitat transformer, especially in Gauteng, the Free State and Limpopo. It must be removed as it is a significant environmental weed that forms thickets under tall trees. Dense infestations will shade the indigenous ground flora and impede the regeneration of over-storey plants. It is spread by birds as well as by fruit washed along watercourses. The fruit is poisonous to humans. This species can also act as a host for bacterial fire blight, a disease common in orchards.

Control: Seedlings can be uprooted by hand and plants up to 3 m tall sprayed with a herbicide. Taller plants should be either ring-barked and poisoned or cut down and the stump chemically treated. Regular follow-up is essential.

References: www.invasives.org.za : www.sanbi.org

Uniondale Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) Working Days and hours

Please note the following operation days for Learner’s Classes, Applications for Renewals of PRDPs, Licence Renewals, Temporary Licences, and other transactions in Uniondale.

Services rendered on WEDNESDAYS only between 10:00 and 15:30:
• Learners Classes (only open for writing learner’s licence)
Services rendered on THURSDAYS only between 10:00 and 15:00:
• Applications
o Renewals of Professional Driving Permits (PRDPs)
o Licence Renewals
o Temporary licences and all other transactions

For more information on Driving and Learner’s licensing please follow this link to the George Municipality’s website: http://tinyurl.com/2xtf99nz

For telephone enquiries, please contact the Uniondale DLTC at 044 752 1024.

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – Water Restrictions remain in place

GARDEN ROUTE DAM LEVEL – Water Restrictions remain in place
Issued 13 February 2024, George Municipality

Percentage storage at new raised dam wall height 91.52
Rainfall for the previous 7 days: 7.8 mm (Measured up to and including 13 February 2024)

The cooperation of all users of municipal water is essential and is greatly appreciated.

Follow this link for the detailed Stricter Water Restrictions in English/Afrikaans and IsiXhosa.
https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/public-notices/general/

Contraventions of the Water Restrictions can be reported on 0800 424477.
Report water leaks and burst pipes to 044 801 9262/66 or after hours at 044 801 6300, as soon as you notice them.

Eskom Loadshedding Update, Monday, 12 February 2024 @16:50

ESKOM LOADSHEDDING UPDATE, Monday, 12 February 2024 @ 16h50
Issued by George Municipality, on behalf of ESKOM

Over the past 24 hours, Eskom has returned to service five generating units which will allow the emergency reserves to be adequately replenished by Tuesday morning. This will enable the reduction of loadshedding to Stage 3 from 05:00 on Tuesday until 16:00. Stage 4 loadshedding will then be implemented from 16:00 on Tuesday until 05:00 on Wednesday. This alternating pattern of Stage 3 loadshedding from 05:00 to 16:00 and Stage 4 loadshedding from 16:00 to 05:00 will be repeated daily until further notice. Eskom will closely monitor the power system and communicate any changes to loadshedding should it be required.

George will be affected as follows:
Monday 12/02/2024
18:00 – 20:30

Tuesday 13/02/2024
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30
16:00 – 18:30

Wednesday 14/02/2024
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30
16:00 – 18:30

Thursday 15/02/2024
00:00 – 02:30

Friday 16/02/2024
00:00 – 02:30
08:00 – 10:30

Uniondale will be affected as follows:
Monday 12/02/2024
13:00 – 17:30 **
21:00 – 23:30

Tuesday 13/02/2024
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30
19:00 – 21:30

Wednesday 14/02/2024
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30
19:00 – 21:30

Thursday 15/02/2024
03:00 – 05:30

Friday 16/02/2024
03:00 – 05:30
11:00 – 13:30

Consumers are reminded to PLEASE use electricity sparingly after power returns. Please do not switch high-usage equipment on immediately after Load shedding.

Consumers are urged to turn off high-usage equipment and where possible to not switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding is scheduled to return. This will reduce the risk of overload tripping on the network.

Please do not phone the after-hours number or the Electrotechnical Department to report that you have no power immediately after load shedding is scheduled to be lifted. Please be aware of the rotational switching on i.e. areas are switched on one by one and not all at the same time to avoid overloading the system. Please wait at least 30 minutes before reporting no power. The Electrotechnical Directorate will be aware of a possible substation trip that needs to be sorted out.

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

Temporary Closure of Traffic Service Centres Due to Operational Matters

Please note that Motor Vehicle Registration (MVR) which is situated at Hibernia Street, MVR in Blanco, Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) in Pacaltsdorp and Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) will be closing at 14:00 on Wednesday, 14 January 2024 for compulsory monthly meetings. Services at all the above traffic service centres will resume on Thursday, 15 February 2024.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.

Temporary Closure of Civic Centre Community Hall and Banquet Hall for Maintenance

The George Municipality wishes to inform the community of the City of George about some essential maintenance work that will be taking place at the Civic Centre Community Hall and the Banquet Hall, located at 71 York Street.

To ensure that these facilities continue to meet the highest standards, the George Municipality has scheduled general maintenance activities. As a result, both the Civic Centre Community Hall and the Banquet Hall will be temporarily unavailable for bookings from 1 March 2024 to 31 May 2024.

The Municipality understands the importance of these community spaces and appreciates your understanding and cooperation during this maintenance period. The Municipality’s commitment is to provide you with excellent facilities, and these efforts are essential to uphold that standard.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this temporary closure or need assistance with alternative arrangements, please feel free to contact Mr A Joseph at 044 801 1344.

Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to reopening these halls with improved facilities for your future events.

George Municipality appoints an environmental officer

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

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

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

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

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

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