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Pacaltsdorp Library takes action against Illegal Dumping

Pacaltsdorp Library takes action against Illegal Dumping

Pacaltsdorp Library had a full book display set up recently on Illegal dumping to teach the public especially youngsters about the ills of illegal dumping.
Library Assistant Eurogene Carolus was in charge of the project.
All books on display were issued as block loans to schools and crèches in Pacaltsdorp to make a concerted effort to rid the community of this criminal activity.
Schools that took part in the project were Pacaltsdorp Primary School, New Dawn Park Primary School, Soete Uurtjies creche, Rooibootjie creche in Syferfontein, Vuurvliegies creche in Rosedale, Rosedale Early Childhood Development and Julios Early Childhood Development.

Lib 1: Teachers at Soete Uurtjies creche with some of the books on illegal dumping that was on loan to the creche.

Lib 2: Illegal dumping display by Library Assistant Eurogene Carolus at Pacaltsdorp Library. All books on display were issued as block loans to schools and crèches in Pacaltsdorp.

Lib3: Books available at the libraries deal with illegal dumping and waste disposal as well as recycling.

Electrical theft results in death and serious injury

George Municipality is facing an uphill battle with ongoing illegal connections and vandalism of electrical infrastructure. An incident in the early hours of Thursday 4 November is currently under investigation following the death of one man and injury and subsequent hospitalisation of another, while alledgedly  attempting to steal a copper earth bare conductor.  SAPS has opened a case of inquest into the death, and George Municipality has opened a case for theft and damage to municipal infrastructure

Theft and vandalism of infrastructure
The continual targeting of municipal electrical infrastructure by cable theft, damage to kiosks, and illegal connections is a highly concerning matter to the municipality, as such incidents affect electricity supply to the rest of the community during the repair period, incur extremely high repair and replacement costs, loss of revenue as well as in this case loss of life. It is extremely important that SAPS, Municipal Law Enforcement, officials, community leaders and residents work cohesively together, to fight this issue of theft and vandalism in our communities.

In the past four months alone, George Municipality has opened 20 cases of either theft or vandalism and more than eight arrests of individuals have been made due to the integrated approach and collaboration between various stakeholders. The average cost to the municipality in terms of repair and replacement over the past six months is over R1 million rand.

In terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, George Municipality has a responsibility to maintain a safe electrical network and for that reason a service provider has been appointed to clear illegal connections, on an as and when basis. Municipal officials are unable to work on or maintain the network unless all illegal connections on the line have been cleared.

Report offenders
The municipality asks that law-abiding citizens take it upon themselves to report illegal connection activities to SAPS as soon as they see them taking place. Legal consumers should also seriously consider how these illegal connections affect them and their families. An illegal connection not only puts the perpetrator in danger of electrocution, risking injury and death but also the rest of the community. Illegal connections should be reported to 044 801 9222 or after hours on 044 801 6300.

Dangers of illegal connections
The dangers of illegal connections have consistently been re-emphasized to the communities of George, with such actions having cost several lives in recent years. These connections lie across pathways and walkways where anyone passing can easily be electrocuted. An additional risk is that illegally connected wires can also make contact with other items such as roofs, gutters and washing lines, making these items live and able to conduct electricity.

The human body can only withstand about 50 milli-ampere (less than 1% of the current drawn by an average kettle) through it, before a medical condition called ventricular fibrillation sets in. To safeguard people against this, each house with legal electricity and a tariff meter is fitted with an earth leakage protection unit.  Children can easily be killed, due to their lower weight, because of illegal connections not having earth leakage protection.

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

Where people have connected themselves illegally, George Municipality will continue to actively find the perpetrators and lay criminal charges against them. In terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act 18 of 2015, a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years can be given, as the interference with, and damage to Municipal property, can be regarded as sabotage.

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

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

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

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

 

Youth Development programmes held in George Municipal areas

Youth Development programmes held in George Municipal areas

George Municipality Youth Development subsection in conjunction with other stakeholders recently had training sessions in George area to benefit the youth.
A Community Awareness session, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Youth Ambassadors from the Municipality was held in New Dawn Park, about the role of civil society in combatting and addressing crime.
Information around job opportunities, as well as health related and human rights matters was also provided by the Youth Office, HIV Office, as well as the Social Health Empowerment Organisation in New Dawn Park.
According to Jonel Kerspuy, Coordinator in the Youth Development Officer, some of the programmes were held during the month of October but job readiness sessions and leadership and lifeskills training happens on a weekly basis at different venues.
A Job Readiness Session was held in October at the Inkcubeko Youth and Science Centre in Thembalethu, with the aim of registering jobseekers on the unemployment database of the Department of Labour and Expanded Public Works Programme. The outreach assisted the youth to apply for available opportunities and an information session on CV and Application letter compilation was held.

A Leadership and lifeskills session were held on invitation with Bricklaying students from the Expanded Public Works programme. The training session focused on responsible citizenship through leadership, vision creation and stimulating public participation by the youth.

Seven Passes Initiative held a training session recently in Pacaltsdorp for young mothers, with children between the ages of 2 – 9 years old from Pacaltsdorp and Parents of youth did an online information session led by a Career Guidance Counsellor from the Department of Labour. The information session was held to capacitate parents on the services that the Department offer for parents of youth in and out of school.
The Municipality arranged for an Afterschool Tennis programme for learners from Pacaltsdorp Primary School on
13 October 2021.

A Substance Abuse Awareness Programme was held with the Haarlem community between 12 and 13 October 2021. The programme was facilitated by 4iR/ED Solutions (Pty)Ltd in partnership with the Department of Social Development and the Department of Agriculture. The need for the programme was identified through a Census survey where Haarlem was highlighted as a hot spot for drug abuse by the Department of Agriculture. The aim of the Programme was to create awareness around the following topics, Substance Abuse, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Planning an Awareness Programme, Gender Based Violence Awareness and to form a support group. Different members of the community attended the programme, including former drug abusers and current drug abusers.

An Absa Consumer Financial Education Training programme was facilitated in Haarlem at the “Help Mekaar Hall” on the 13th of October 2021.The aim of the programme was to share useful information skills on finances.
On the 14th of October 2021 a motivational session was held with the Grade12 class at Uniondale High School. One of the speakers was local hero De Walt Human, from SA 7’s rugby. It was held in conjunction with the Department of Social Development. Each learner received a stationary pack from the Municipality.

Captions:
youthunion2: Parent Programme with Young Mothers by Seven Passes Initiative
youthunion3: Jonel Kerspuy from the Youth Development Office, gives active citizenship training to learners from from the Department of Transport and Public Works at the Eagles Nest Ministries building.

Youthunion4: Afterschool tennis training at Pacaltsdorp Primary School.

Youthunion5: Substance Abuse Awareness Training and Community Engagement at Haarlem Community Hall.

GO GEORGE surveyors spreading out to neighbourhoods

PRESS RELEASE: GO GEORGE surveyors spreading out to neighbourhoods
Issued 2 November 2021

The 2021 George Integrated Public Transport Network (GIPTN) Macro-, Transport- and Socio-Economic Study is well under way with surveyors also spreading out to individual households across various suburbs in George, Wilderness and surrounding areas from this week.

Passenger travel surveys at GO GEORGE bus stops, business surveys and special interest group surveys are being carried out primarily through telephonic and personal interviews as well as distribution of electronic questionnaires.

Safe access to surveyors
Surveyors will be wearing GO GEORGE-branded identification cards showing the person’s photo and ID number. An appeal is made to residents to allow certified surveyors safe access to their property and to assist with the valuable feedback needed to continuously assess and improve the bus service.

For more information or enquiries, the GO GEORGE Call Centre can be phoned on 0800 044 044.

CAPTION:
Surveyors approaching individuals or visiting households in the George area are carrying GO GEORGE-branded identification cards. Algerchen Hendricks (left) from Conville was happy to give a few minutes of his time to answer surveyor Mauchan Koelman’s questions.

PERSVERKLARING: GO GEORGE-navorsingsbeamptes versprei na woonbuurte
Uitgereik 2 November 2021

Die 2021 makro-, vervoer- en sosio-ekonomiese studie van die George Geïntegreerde Openbare Vervoernetwerk (GIPTN) is goed op dreef met navorsingsbeamptes wat ook vanaf hierdie week individuele huishoudings in verskeie woonbuurte in George, Wildernis en omliggende gebiede sal besoek.

Passasiersopnames by GO GEORGE-bushaltes, besigheidsopnames en spesiale belangegroep-opnames word hoofsaaklik uitgevoer deur telefoniese en persoonlike onderhoude asook die verspreiding van elektroniese vraelyste.

Veilige toegang vir beamptes
Navorsingsbeamptes sal GO GEORGE- identifikasiekaarte met die persoon se foto- en ID-nommer dra. ‘n Beroep word op inwoners gedoen om gesertifiseerde beamptes veilige toegang tot hul eiendom te gee en om te help met die waardevolle terugvoer wat nodig is om die busdiens deurlopend te assesseer en te verbeter.

Vir meer inligting of navrae kan die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 044 gebel word.

BYSKRIF:
Navorsingsbeamptes wat individue nader of huishoudings in die George-gebied besoek, dra GO GEORGE-identifikasiekaarte. Algerchen Hendricks (links) van Conville het met graagte ‘n paar minute van sy tyd afgestaan om Mauchan Koelman se vrae te beantwoord.

PERSVERKLARING: GO GEORGE-navorsingstudie om ekonomiese impak van busdiens te meet
Uitgereik 11 Oktober 2021

‘n Onafhanklike studie onder die gesamentlike vaandel van die Wes-Kaapse departement van vervoer en openbare werke en die George-munisipaliteit sal volgende week van stapel gestuur word met die doel om die algehele ekonomiese impak van die implementering van die GO GEORGE-busdiens in George te bepaal en te meet.

Die 2021 makro-, vervoer- en sosio-ekonomiese studie van die George Geïntegreerde Openbare Vervoernetwerk (GIPTN) sal van Oktober 2021 tot Mei 2022 in George uitgevoer word.

Makro-, vervoer- en sosio-ekonomiese impak gemeet
Die algehele impak sal gemeet word in drie hoofareas, naamlik makro-ekonomiese, vervoer-ekonomiese en sosio-ekonomiese impak. Verskeie opnames sal oor ‘n tydperk van twee maande gedoen word, van 18 Oktober 2021 tot middel Desember 2021.

George-inwoners sal genader word vir terugvoer deur middel van die volgende vier opnames:
• Passasiersopnames wat by GO GEORGE-bushaltes oor die netwerk van roetes uitgevoer sal word;
• Huishoudelike opnames, wat deur-tot-deur by individuele huishoudings oor verskeie voorstede in George, Wildernis en omliggende gebiede uitgevoer sal word;
• Besigheidsopnames (bv. algemene besighede, GIPTN-diensverskaffers sowel as besighede by oorklimplekke rondom die groter besigheidskern) wat hoofsaaklik deur telefoniese en persoonlike onderhoude uitgevoer sal word;
• Spesiale belangegroep-opnames (bv. gebruikers met spesiale behoeftes en spesifieke belangegroepe), wat hoofsaaklik uitgevoer sal word deur telefoniese en persoonlike onderhoude asook die verspreiding van elektroniese vraelyste.

Navorsingsbeamptes maklik om te identifiseer
Navorsingsbeamptes sal GO GEORGE- identifikasiekaarte met die persoon se foto- en ID-nommer dra. ‘n Beroep word op die George-gemeenskap gedoen om vyf minute af te staan wanneer hulle genader word en te help met die waardevolle terugvoer wat slegs bekombaar is van diegene wat die busdiens gebruik, of op een of ander manier deur die busdiens se bedrywighede geraak word.

Data wat deur die studie verkry word, sal opgeteken en ontleed word vanaf middel November 2021 tot April 2022, met finale resultate, gevolgtrekkings en verslae wat aan die einde van Mei 2022 voltooi moet word.

Vir meer inligting of navrae kan die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 044 gebel word.

BYSKRIF:
Navorsingsbeamptes wat individue nader of huishoudings in die George-omgewing besoek, sal identifikasiekaarte dra. Hier werk Siphiwo Mathys deur ‘n vraelys met Patience Tisani, ‘n passasier wat in Thembalethu woon.

Recycling training for Municipal creches and Food garden coordinators

Recycling training for Municipal creches and Food garden coordinators
Issued by George Municipality, 29 October 2021

The Community Development Food Gardens and Creches subsection, in partnership with Landmark Foundation and LGE Waste provided recycling training to ten municipal creche employees and ten Food Garden Co-ordinators recently. The two training sessions were recently held at the Illingulethu creche in Thembalethu and at Rosedale Educare
According to Allen Paulse, Director: Community Services, during the training, creche employees were taught alternative ways to manage their refuse. Notes were provided on what can be recycled and what not. All the creches that participated were registered in the Landmark Foundation’s Creches Recycling programme and also received resources which they can use to assist them on their recycling journey. All staff were also encouraged to involve the learners in the process as much as possible.
Once the creches have begun their recycling programme successfully, further training with regards to Food Gardens will also take place. Landmark foundation will conduct the gardening training as well.

Photo 1 – 121813: Representatives from Landmark Foundation and LGE Waste, George Municipality, staff from Kwakhanya, Mzomhle, Masibambane, Illingelethu and Isiseko Creches.

Photo 2- 124012: Representatives from Landmark Foundation, George Municipality and principals from Golden Valley, Kekkel en Kraai, Pophuis, Rosedale Nursery and Rosedale Educare.

New George Junior City Council announced and “Tannie Liza” says goodbye

The 2021 George Junior City Council (JCC) held its last official event Wednesday, 27 October with the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Leon van Wyk and Cllr Liza Stroebel in attendance and announcing the new executive committee of the JCC for 2022.

The function was held at the George Methodist Church Hall and was attended by the parents of the Junior City Councillors.
Ald Van Wyk said in his address, he has been enormously impressed with the leadership qualities the junior council has shown during their tenor in council the last year. “I inherited a substantial challenge to lead the turnaround of our municipality and to restore a high standard of service delivery to our ratepayers. I want to thank my colleague, Cllr Stroebel, for the role she has undertaken on behalf of our George Council in mentoring you,” Ald Van Wyk said.

He said we live in a country that faces enormous challenges – we live in crisis – in an environment where the government has seemingly lost its way through lack of leadership. He said the members of the JCC are some of the young leaders that will have to craft philosophies and skills that will enable them to tackle the changes, challenges, and adversity and the opportunities that will result.

He thanked the JCC for outstanding leadership roles displayed and for becoming involved and making a difference in civic duties. He also thanked the parents and teachers of the youngsters for their encouragement.
Cllr Liza Stroebel, (affectionately known by the JCC members as “Tannie Liza”) the Mayoral Representative who oversees the Junior City Council on behalf of the Mayor of George, has served her last term in Council and said this moment is bittersweet.
She said the leadership qualities of the JCC members displayed the past few years, gives her tremendous hope for our youth. She honoured God for His grace in allowing her this opportunity. She said she will never forget all the greatness that was achieved through and by the JCC. She said God shared with her a message when she started out in her overseeing role saying to her, “learn, love, serve.”
She asked the audience to take these words with them. “Learn as much as you can … to show yourself approved,
Love as much as you can…to gain love in return,
And Serve as much as you can… to reap your harvest.
Ludolph Pedro and McKaya Kroon both made magnificent speeches about their tenor in the JCC about how they grew as human beings, how being involved in helping with civic issues groomed them for the future and how the JCC members became a family and friends for life.

Captions:
JCC3: The old and the new Executive Committee of the George Junior Council with Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Leon van Wyk and Cllr Liza Stroebel. In front from left are: Carla Kruger (Outeniqua High School – Deputy Mayor 2022), Mayor Van Wyk, Cllr Liza Stroebel, Ruan Coetzee (Outeniqua High School – JCC Mayor 2022).
At the back are: Aine Ferreira – (Outeniqua High School – Deputy Mayor 2021), Inga Jijingubo (York High School – JCC Municipal Manager 2022), Clara Campbell (Glenwood House -Deputy Speaker 2022), Lindy Prinsloo (Glenwood House- Deputy Speaker 2021), McKaya Kroon (York High School – Speaker 2021), Jordan Meyer (York High School – Speaker 2022) and Ludolph Pedro (York High School- Mayor 2021). Absent: Brenco de Kock (George High School – Municipal Manager 2021).

Jcc2: Ludolph Pedro (York High School- Mayor 2021) drapes the ceremonial mayoral chain around Ruan Coetzee (Outeniqua High School – JCC Mayor 2022).

Jcc5: The new JCC executive committee are in front from left: Carla Kruger (Outeniqua High School – Deputy Mayor 2022), Mayor Van Wyk, Cllr Liza Stroebel, Ruan Coetzee (Outeniqua High School – JCC Mayor 2022).
At the back are Clara Campbell (Glenwood House -Deputy Speaker 2022) Inga Jijingubo (York High School – Municipal Manager and Jordan Meyer (York High School – Speaker 2022).

Khomanani Day held in Waboomskraal

Khomanani Day held in Waboomskraal
Issued George Municipality, 28 October 2021

Caption: Willbedine Jordaan (left) from the HIV subsection, George Municipality at the Khomanani Day event in Waboomskraal and Rose Josephs, Maria Khumalo,Katy Plaatjies, Getruida Camper and Dolfien Daniels and Sister Katrina Maritz.

The Community Development HIV subsection celebrated Khomanani Day in Waboomskraal by hosting a wellness programme with the focus on cancer awareness and HIV on Tuesday at Waboomskraal Community Hall. Cllr Sean Snyman, Portfolio Councillor for Community Services addressed the attendees and represented the Executive Mayor, Alderman Leon van Wyk.
Cllr Snyman said viruses do not only come in the form of diseases but social issues are like a cancer in society. “If we do not have the discipline to take action against gangsterism, crime or even poverty or any other social ill while it can still be cured, the “cancer” can eat away at our society. He said it is like the illness, if you treat it in time you have a better chance of beating the disease.

The councillor thanked all of the participants who had stalls at the event, inlcuding subsections of the Municipality’s Community Services and the Department of Health, Cansa and Bethesda, a frail care organisation. Food hampers were given to members of the community to help them in a time of need. Inspirational talks and health screenings for HIV testing, breast examinations, pap smears and vaccinations were given during the event.

Khomanani Day is a national social mobilization campaign focusing on the impact of HIV and AIDS in society and promoting community action, partnership and awareness against the disease.

90-year-old woman signs transfer for her house after living in it for 70 years

A 90-year-old woman, Martiena ‘Meisie’ Pietersen, yesterday signed transfer documents for a historic house in Pacaltsdorp in which she has lived for 70 years.

George Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk paid a visit to Aunt Meisie yesterday to help her complete the paperwork for the house. She is one of six households signing transfers for houses known as the Urban’s properties, which the former Pacaltsdorp Municipality had bought for the purposes of subdivision and sale to the then inhabitants many years ago. The transfer had never taken place and the George Municipality had inherited the properties when the local authorities amalgamated in 1995.

Ald Van Wyk said the Urban’s houses were estimated to be about 100 years old and the municipality had hoped that it could make some repairs to the homes before transfer. “George Municipality had pursued options to fund repairs via government grants because Council did not have the finances to make such repairs itself, but there were no grants applicable to these types of housing.

“George Municipality did not want to delay transfer of ownership any longer, especially since most inhabitants are elderly and the municipality wanted to ensure the rights of the current beneficiaries as well as their legal heirs.

“Officials of the Provincial Department of Human Settlements have confirmed the houses are structurally safe and liveable, but the municipality will continue to assist the new owners to obtain funding through other government or organisation programmes,” said Ald van Wyk.

Aunt Meisie said she was grateful that she would finally own the house she had spent her life in. “Thank you to everyone at the municipality that has helped to make this happen after so many years.”

Caption1
Martiena ‘Meisie’ Pietersen in her favourite chair in the house for which she signed transfer documents yesterday. She has lived in the house for 70 years.

Caption2
George Municipality Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk help Aunt Meisie with the paperwork for the transfer of her house after living there for 70 years.

Blue Flag for Wilderness and two Pilot Blue Flags for Victoria and Herolds Bay

George Municipality will be hoisting a Blue Flag and putting up two Pilot Blue Flag boards at local beaches for the 2021/22 summer season.

Wilderness Beach has regained full Blue Flag status after two years of Pilot status following a change in criteria and Covid-19 implications. Victoria Bay and Herold’s Bay this year both gained Pilot status following application by the George Municipality.

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).

George Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz and George Municipality Manager Parks and Recreation Nosidima Vumindaba received the flag and boards at a WESSA function in Hermanus yesterday (27 October 2021).

Victoria Bay

Dr Gratz said Blue Flag status offered many benefits including improved tourism facilities, enhanced management of coastal ecosystems, increased awareness of the coast and capacity building of coastal municipalities. “Local and international tourism to our region have taken a major knock since the start of Covid-19 and impacted countless local livelihoods. Blue Flag status has significant international merit and achieving these accolades are important to stimulate and confirm international and high-end interest in the city and district as a desirable, quality tourism and lifestyle destination.”

“We thank Garden Route District Municipality for their role in the application for Wilderness, as well as other roleplayers such as SANParks Garden Route National Park who shares jurisdiction of Wilderness beach with the George Municipality.”

Marlene Barnardt, and Mayor Leon van Wyk

“We look forward to achieving full Blue Flag status for Victoria and Herolds Bay in the near future and will continue working with other relevant roleplayers to ensure compliance.”

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.

 

Preparations start in anticipation of grant funds for water infrastructure project

George Municipality has started procurement processes for the development of major drinking water infrastructure projects in anticipation of national funding over the next few years.

George Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk said application had been made to National Treasury for a Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) funding of approximately R 1.1 billion for the second and third phases of the Potable Water Security and Remedial Works project. To qualify the project must be ‘shovel ready’ meaning that they must be ready for immediate procurement, contracting and construction, by the time funding becomes available.

“We await formal announcement of an initial allocation of R81.345 million grant funding for the 2021/22 financial year as a Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant. We are grateful for the treasury’s faith in the municipality as a responsible recipient of grant allocation funds and are committed to provide services in line with the city’s ongoing needs as one of the fastest growing municipalities in the country.

“This is a major milestone project for the sustainability of our city that will stimulate housing and economic developments that had to be halted in recent years as bulk water and sanitation infrastructure had reached capacity. The project will also eradicate the current sludge spillage in municipality’s river and dam water sources, in turn, improving the water quality of the municipality.”

The entire project includes an extension of the current water treatment works (WTW) by an additional 20 million litre (Mℓ) per day plant; remedial works to downstream pump stations impacted by current WTW sludge discharged into the network; pipework extensions and upgrades; reservoirs for Pacaltsdorp and Thembalethu; a back-up generator for the Garden Route Dam to ease supply of water to balancing dams during power failures, raw water pump station upgrades, an additional 30 Mℓ balancing dam; (6) and an on-site sludge dewatering facility.

Phase one of the project was completed earlier this year and included the upgrade of the sludge pumping station at the New WTW.

The BFI submission is for the extension of the George water treatment capacity to be implemented over two phases over three years (2022 – 2025): Phase 2 is an additional 20 Mℓ/day extension to the New George WTW and Phase 3 is an additional 30 Mℓ balancing dam at the New George WTW.

Rosedale Access Road close to completion

The road, providing access to Rosedale and the new Erf 325 housing development is approaching completion with the final road surface having been completed last week. Road markings will be added within the next few days.  Additional funding was utilised to create a universally accessible sidewalk on the northern side of the road (Rosedale side), which is also scheduled to be completed within the next two weeks.

The public is reminded to still treat the area, especially the sidewalks,  as an active construction site, until the full construction works have been completed.  Once the road marking has been completed, the GO GEORGE bus service will return to the normal schedule.

The Municipality would like take this opportunity to thank the residents and road users for their patience during the construction phase.

From right to left is Dean Jacobus (V3 consulting engineers); Ryno Schraader (V3 consulting engineers );Melvin Roelfse (Ward councillor); Sybrand Otto (Entsha Henra); Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor); Jacky von Brandis (Portfolio councillor Civil Engineering Services); Ricus Fivaz (Project Manager, George Civil Engineering Service)

Outeniqua Wastewater Treatment Works: Upgrading and 10Ml/d Capacity Extension

Executive Mayor for George, Leon Van Wyk visited the Outeniqua Wastewater Treatment Works (OWWTW) on Monday  25 October, to review the construction works underway for the upgrading and capacity extension of the plant . This project was initially delayed due to contractual matters and again later with the onset of Covid-19 and the subsequent challenges introduced by lockdown.

Certain materials had to be imported and international travel restrictions due to the pandemic resulted in material shortages. The construction programme was however revised as a result to allow for new interim deadlines while still completing the project within the approved project timelines.

“This significant upgrade is essential for the ongoing growth we are experiencing throughout George and the increased capacity from 15Ml/dl to 25Ml/d  will provide us with the ability to continue with construction activity and development to move forward at a fair pace going into the future,” said Ald Van Wyk.

Two of four new aerators has been installed on the old works’ carousel activated sludge biological reactor. Each has a 130 kW motor on top of the gearbox, which is connected below the concrete slab to an aerator. This combination adds air to the water to dissolve oxygen for bacterial growth in the water to enable aerobic biological treatment of the sewage.

The concrete platforms and beams had to be rehabilitated and retrofitted with carbon strips to provide additional reinforcement for the new heavier aerators to be installed on the existing platforms. Two of the four new aerators are already operational and the concrete remedial works under way on the two remaining bays to allow the installation of the other two new aerators.

The construction of this mechanical, electrical and instrumentation works contract is being executed in three distinct components i.e. the inlet works, the carousel (refurbish existing 15 Ml/d reactor) and completion of the equipping of the new 10 Ml/d reactor. All of these components  are due for completion in February 2023 while the first two components are expected to be fully operational by May 2022. For the most part the Civil engineering construction is  nearing completion and only some roadworks remain.

The waste skips for screenings and grit will be housed inside the new skip handling building, after the screenings and grit has been washed and compacted, in order to allow for air collection from the building and to pass this air through the odour control system, where the air is to be treated to a less odorous state before being released back into the environment through the chimney.

The 10 Ml/d new reactor is the main component for the provision of additional capacity at the plant. The component was also constructed in phases and the civil engineering structures were completed previously including the concrete structures of the reactor and settling tanks plus the building to house the blowers and motor control centre.

The first of four new aerators has been installed on the old works’ carousel activated sludge biological reactor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inside the new skip handling building with mechanical new equipment showing in the background. From left to right: Gerard de Swardt ( George Municipality, Project Manager), Jannie Koegelenberg (RHDHV, Project Manager), Luvoyo Dondolo (Khubeka Construction, Health & Safety), Cllr Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor), Irwin Ross (Khubeka Construction Civil & Building, Member/Contract Manager) Dion Kuter ( WPCP , Contracts Manager)

 

 

Onsite are from left to right: Cllr Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor), Jannie Koegelenberg ( RHDHV, Project Manager), Dion Kuter (WPCP, Contracts Manager), Gerard de Swardt (George Municipality, Project Manager).

Pointsmen to help alleviate festive season traffic congestion

 

 

 

 

 

 

George Municipal Protection Services directorate has today confirmed receipt of funding from the Western Cape Provincial Department of Community Safety to employ 30 Pointsmen /women for the period 1 November to 31 January 2022. The 30 appointees will start with on-the-job training on the 1 November, and be easily identifiable with their reflective vests, white gloves and caps. A month of intensive training will prepare the “pointsmen” for their duties during the festive season which is always accompanied by additional traffic congestion.

George Traffic Department will identify the most congested intersections on a daily basis, and the flexibility of having an additional 30 officials will allow the traffic department to move the pointsmen to where they are most needed. Pointsmen are there to assist with traffic flow and we ask that their friendly smiles and waves are responded to and that all motorists on the road during the busy festive season, be considerate and spare a thought for the people out there making your life just that little bit easier and safer.

Ensuring a safe 2021 Festive Season for George

Executive Mayor, Leon Van Wyk announced today that for the 2021 Festive Season, safety and service delivery will be key focuses for the municipal administration of George. To ensure a smooth festive season, a multi-disciplinary Season Committee will meet daily Monday to Friday, online, to discuss all problems being experienced and to find immediate and reasonable solutions where possible. The Season Committee will start on 1 December and continue operations to mid-January 2022.

Municipal departments will all be represented and meet daily with all role players, including SAPS, Tourism and other tourism-related role players, SanParks, NSRI, Lifeguard representatives, and more to ensure optimal service delivery standards during the festive season and to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to George and surrounds. Topics will include lifesavers, parking issues, safety, service delivery in terms of refuse collection, water and electricity, traffic and management of beaches.

OPEN OVER FESTIVE SEASON
The municipal offices will remain open throughout the Festive Season operating Monday to Friday from 07.45am – 4.30 pm apart from weekend and Public Holidays:
16 December 2021 – Public Holiday and offices are closed.
27 December  – Public Holiday and offices are closed

Please note Covid-19 Regulations apply and offices will clearly indicate the number of persons allowed in at any given time. Where possible, the public is encouraged to continue using our online services.

All essential services will be provided during this time. The Municipal Call Centre will be operational and all service delivery matters can be reported either on the Municipal App, 044 801 9111 or admin@george.gov.za. Emergencies must be reported to 044 801 6300 and Fire to 044 801 6311.

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIFEGUARDS
Lifeguards will be deployed at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip and Wilderness Salina’s on a fulltime daily basis from 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2021.

TRAFFIC
George Traffic Services will actively patrol all municipal areas in collaboration with Western Cape Provincial Traffic over the festive season with regular roadblocks to be set up at various strategic points in and around George. We appeal to motorists and road users to always obey all road and traffic rules and to exercise patience during peak traffic, especially during the busy holiday period. An additional 30 pointsmen/women will be addressing congested traffic intersections from 1 December to 31 January to ease traffic flow.

BEACH MONITORS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
George Municipality will strictly enforce no alcohol allowed on our beaches and the George law enforcement officers will be augmented by at least 30 Beach Monitors who will start 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 as well as the SAPS also work closely with the Municipality with regards to Community Safety.

 

 

 

 

 

 

DOGS
The following beach areas under the control of the George Municipality which include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth, Victoria Bay and the Leentjiesklip areas do not allow dogs on the beach although dogs are allowed on the sidewalks of the beach areas but must be on a leash. Wilderness Beach from the estuary onwards falls under the control of SANPARKS and as such they have an infographic which clearly demarcates where dogs are allowed and where not. In terms of the Municipal Bylaw no dog or other animal may be in any public street or public space (any open public space the public has access to which falls under the George Municipal jurisdiction for example parks, sport fields, beachfronts ( not on the sand) and sidewalks) unless on a leash and under control.

 

 

 

 

 

FIREWORKS
Due to the high fire risk, there is a general ban on the setting off, selling and possession of fireworks, fire-crackers, flares, paper lanterns and other such paraphernalia in the George municipal area. Fines of R300 may apply, all fireworks will be confiscated. Report Fireworks to Law Enforcement on 044 801 6350/6300 and Fires to 044 801 6311.

REFUSE COLLECTION
Refuse Collection black, blue and green bags will continue throughout the festive season including public holidays. The CBD cleaning crews will work throughout with an extension of their hours as and when required. As with previous years, an additional Saturday Refuse Collection for businesses (restaurants) will start on 1 December and end 1 January 2022.

Phase 3 – Operation Cleanup – Project Pacaltsdorp

Phase Three of Operation Clean up swung into action yesterday  (Monday 25 October 2021) in Pacaltsdorp with cleaning teams from Community Services moving in to clear up illegal dump sites and raise awareness around the dangers of illegal dumping. A total of 44 areas will be targeted over the next two weeks with JCB and tipper trucks. Community Service Officials will hand out flyers on the dangers of illegal dumping in the areas that are cleared.

The first area cleared was an illegal dumpsite behind AFM Church, Pacaltsdorp which yielded a total of 486 full black bags. Seen here with a portion of the black bags collected is Mervin Olivier, one of the team co-ordinator’s.

 

 

PROTECTION SERVICES
George Municipal Law Enforcement officials will carry out patrols and create awareness around the safe keeping of animals, illegal dumping, dangers of cable theft, vandalism and other municipal by-law related matters.

 

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Youth office will be hosting a Parenting Programme jointly with Seven Passes, every Tuesday morning with young women from Pacaltsdorp with children, between the ages of 2 – 9 years old. This is a closed group, so if anyone is interested in this programme, they can contact  the municipal office on 044 802 2900.

Various outreaches have been completed,  and are still in progress with Pacaltdorp Primary and Pacaltsdorp Secondary School over the next two weeks. Programmes will also be run with Youths who have completed their schooling. These programmes are run in conjunction with the Pacaltsdorp Business Chamber, and includes entrepreneurship training/mentoring, job readiness, leadership and life-skills training.

At Pacaltsdorp Secondary School, the municipal team provided Career Counselling together with the Department of Labour for Grade 12 learners. This included Leadership and Positive Citizenship encouragement at their Grade 12 Valedictory ceremony.  An afterschool programme, incorporating tennis, to instill discipline and life-skills will take place with learners from Pacaltsdorp Senior Secondary School through the peer educator programme.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION

The parks teams will be addressing the trimming of trees where necessary,  cutting of grass on sidewalks as well as spraying for weeds this week. In the photograph Jonathan McKenzie Small Plant Operator for Parks and Recreation is seen cutting verges.

 

FINANCE

Finance Officials will be stationed at the Pacaltsdorp Community Hall on Wednesday 27 October from 9am – 1pm to assist members of the public with the completion of indigent applications, assist with account queries and facilitate arrangements on overdue accounts. Please bring along a copy of your monthly municipal account, any other relevant paperwork and your ID.

 

PACALTSDORP LIBRARY
Pacaltsdorp Library has installed an exhibition on Illegal Dumping as well as one in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month set up by library assistant, Eurogene Carolus. The library will be running an extensive programme over the next two weeks,  including book lending to various creche’s Soete Uurtjies, Grade R New Dawn Park Primary, Grade R Pacaltsdorp Primary, Rooibootjie in Syferfontein, Rosedale Community Creche and Vuurvliegies.

The 10 books loaned to each creche will contain information on illegal dumping to raise awareness amongst our youngest residents. Illegal Dumping Awareness activities will also be run together with officials from Community Services, this Friday and next with older learners of Pacaltsdorp Primary School.  The creche Soete Uurtjie will be treated to a story hour as well as colouring exercise.

 

Information jamborees in New Dawn Park and Pacaltsdorp

George Municipality held ‘Information Jamborees’ in New Dawn Park and Pacaltsdorp today.

The initiative is the second in a series of pop-up sessions in which service departments set up in communities to provide information and deal with complaints. Areas in which new government subsidised housing projects have been completed are being prioritised for now to assist new beneficiaries with building-related issues that might have come up since they have occupied their new homes. The sessions, however, are open to all residents.
The municipal departments Housing, Community Development, Cleansing, Libraries, Civil Engineering Services (water, sanitation and streets), Finance, Electrotechnical Services, Tourism, Traffic and GO GEORGE were represented.
George Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk, who visited both sites this morning, encouraged locals to make use of the one-stop initiatives to address as many service-related issues as soon as possible.

Caption
Environmental Services staff from left Grace Notshokovu, Abongile Nontshikiza and Jody Stuurman promoted the municipality’s recycling programme.

MAYOR’S MESSAGE TO MATRICS 2021

TO THE MATRICS OF 2021
The 27th of October 2021 marks the beginning of a new phase in your young and budding academic careers. You will be starting your final examinations. Despite all the challenges you have faced over the past couple of years, you have worked hard and fought hard to get to this stage.

The Covid-19 pandemic has helped prepare you for life’s challenges that are often tough. It is now time for you to use this very same tenacity as you face this next challenge. These exams are twelve years in the making and represent the culmination of your journey as a learner. For this reason, it is extremely important that you study hard and prepare yourselves to the best of your ability for the task that lies before you later this month and next month. As a young person in our country, you have an important role to play in shaping our societies and it starts here.

There will be nerves, this is the case for each of us when we encounter something new or unknown, but do not be discouraged. It will be good to keep calm during the exams. Stay focused, keep your eyes on the prize – to achieve great results that will open doors for you and shape your entire future.

Matric class of 2021, this is your moment. Use the time you have been given to prepare, wisely. You have the backing, well wishes, thoughts and prayers of this entire George municipal area behind you.

Do not be discouraged, face this challenge, and conquer it.
Good luck to all of you, make us proud.

Your Executive Mayor, Leon Van Wyk

AAN DIE MATRIEKS VAN 2021
Die 27ste Oktober 2021 is die begin van ‘n nuwe fase in jul jong en ontluikende akademiese loopbane, dit is die begin van jul finale eksamens. Ten spyte van al die uitdagings waar voor julle die afgelope paar jaar te staan gekom het, het julle hard gewerk en hard baklei om hier uit te kom.

Die Covid-19 pandemie het julle voorberei vir die lewe se dikwels moeilike uitdagings. Dit is nou tyd om hierdie volharding in te span om die volgende uitdaging die hoof te bied. Hierdie eksamens is twaalf jaar in wording en verteenwoordig die hoogtepunt in jou reis as leerder. Dit is daarom uiters belangrik om hard te studeer en jouself tot die beste van jou vermoë voor te berei op die taak wat later hierdie maand en volgende maand voorlê. As ‘n jong persoon in ons land het jy ‘n belangrike rol om te speel in die vorming van ons samelewing, en dit begin nou.

Daar sal senuwees wees, dit is vir ons almal die geval wanneer ons iets nuuts of onbekends teëkom, maar moenie moed verloor nie. Dit sal goed wees om kalm te bly tydens die eksamens. Bly gefokus, hou jou oog op die prys – om uitstekende resultate te behaal wat vir jou deure gaan oopmaak en jou hele toekoms gaan vorm.

Matriekklas van 2021, hierdie is julle oomblik. Gebruik die tyd wat jul gegun is om goed voor te berei. Julle het die steun, goeie wense, gedagtes en gebede van hierdie hele George munisipale gebied.

Moenie moed verloor nie, kyk die uitdaging vierkantig in die oë en oorkom dit.
Sterkte aan julle almal, maak ons trots.

Uitvoerende Burgemeester, Leon van Wyk

Mayor visits CCTV control room

George Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk recently visited the municipality’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) control room which is currently undergoing extensions.
There are more than 500 cameras located across the city that feed into the control room and are monitored to protect municipal property, identify criminal activities and/or situations that may lead to unlawful actions.

Ald van Wyk said that while he was visiting the control room suspicious activity was identified alongside the road and Municipal Law Enforcement Officers and SAPS were contacted to investigate. A suspect was subsequently arrested for alleged attempt of cable theft. “As was clearly illustrated during my visit, the need for ongoing expansion of the CCTV network is important and continuous investment into such technology essential.”

George Municipality takes services to the people

George Municipality takes services to the people

George Municipality held a Jamboree (a gathering of all the services of the George Municipality at one venue) at the Rosedale Community Centre/Area Office last Friday (15 October) to bring services closer to the people of Rosedale.

The departments from George Municipality represented were Human Settlements, Community Development, Cleansing, Libraries, Civil Engineering (water, sewage and roads), Finance, Electrotechnical Services and GO GEORGE. They had tables or stalls at the venue where they answered the public’s questions, gave information and helped with complaints.

According to Ms Lauren Waring, Acting Director Human Settlements, the directorates pulled together to arrange the jamboree. “The Rosedale area was chosen for this jamboree because there is a new housing development, which usually generates many challenges, so we decided instead of everyone having to come to town, let’s take the services to the people.

“It was a great success. We will initially have these jamborees at new housing developments across the municipal area and then arrange jamborees in other areas.”

Waring said the municipality did consumer education with people moving into new houses, but people still had questions or challenges afterwards. “Once you are in a new home, it comes with responsibilities like electricity and other services. People must know how to deal with their accounts, what is the owner’s responsibility and what is the municipality’s responsibility.

Human Settlement officials assisted the community with mostly water and roof leakages, general housing faults, ownership queries, waiting list applications and more.

Electrotechnical Services assisted with electrical complaints while Finance assisted with Indigent applications, and more. Cleansing informed the public about the dangers of illegal dumping and how to deal with hazardous waste.
Rachel Williams, Manager George Library, said she and her team promoted reading that made people relax. “In October we focus on mental health and encourage adults and children alike to read fiction if they struggle with any mental related issues, insomnia. Covid-19 has a negative emotional effect on most people and this is how the libraries can assist our communities.”

Captions:
Jam1: Mayor Leon van Wyk visited the Jamboree. Here he holds a healthy cabbage from one of the food gardens that is now under the guidance of the Community Development section of the Municipality. From left are Lizel Arnold, Food Garden coordinator: Rosedale, Janine Adams, Community Development, Bernedene Afrika, Food Garden Coordinator: Conville and Willbedine Jordaan, Community Development.
Jam2: On the other side of the Community Development stall information was distributed on gender and health related issues. From left are John Pato with some information pamphlets, Mayor Leon van Wyk, Diena Esau with information, Ejustley Boshoff (Community Development) Cllr Marlene Barnardt and Nozipho Stone (Community Development).
Jam3: Explaining the new routes in Rosedale at the GO GEORGE stall are in front Khadija Luangula (Communication champion) and Janel Gelant (Communications Champion and next to her Cllr Marlene Barnardt. Standing are Mayor Leon van Wyk (left) and James Robb from GO GEORGE (far right) holding onto a life-size backdrop of the inside of a GO GEORGE bus.
Jam4: Mayor Leon van Wyk have a look at how Human Settlements officials, Yandisa Malgas and Lizelle Petersen assist members of the public with human settlement queries. At the back are from left Channold Duitsjan, Cllr Melvin Roelfse, Ward Councillor in Rosedale area, Alfred Posula and Roger Ramage.
Jam5: Providing the community with much needed information regarding illegal dumping are from left, Ethan Stoffels (Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries), Lorenze Gelderblom and Shaun Kemsley from LGE Waste, Karin Stoffels (Environmental Services) and Mayor Leon van Wyk.

Jam6: Jackie Pyler (left) and Shimoné Smith from Civil Engineering Services with informative pamphlets they handed out to the community – not to throw junk down toilets and drains and how it could have a bad ripple effect on the whole City’s sewage system. Mayor Leon van Wyk in the middle with one of the pamphlets.

Jam7: Juanita Dudley from Rosedale (in blue top) is assisted by Sphiwo Mlotha (left) and Lenie File from the Finance Directorate. With them is Cllr Dirk Wessels, Portfolio Councillor for Finance.

Jam8: Rachel Williams and Malibongwe Luyenge from George Library Services with Libby, (green mascot) a free app where you can borrow eBooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your public library. You can stream titles with Wi-Fi or mobile data, or download them for offline use and read anytime, anywhere. All you need to get started is a library card. In front are Sandy Claassen (14) from Pacaltsdorp High School, Elmar Heyens (4) and Sihle Papali (13) from Pacaltsdorp Primary School interested what the Library stall had to offer.

Jam9: Some of the George Municipality officials, Councillors and Mayor Leon van Wyk in attendance at the jamboree.
Jam 10: At the Electrotechnical stall are from left Yandiswa Ngxwani (electrical complaints/ reception), Mayor Leon van Wyk, Nomakhaya Nqumse (Client Services) and Debby Goosen (Electrical Assistant).

Partnership to benefit incubation programmes for ICT business and innovators

George Municipality Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk formally handed over the Thembalethu iHUB, an ICT business and innovator incubator programme, at a ribbon cutting service today (14 October 2021). The municipality provides the premises, services and an annual cash contribution towards the project. The Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) funded the repurposing of the building to the needs of the iHUB.

Ald Van Wyk said collaborations such as these were very important for the municipality’s ongoing pursuit to lure international companies to establish their call centres here. “The ongoing installation of optic fibre in our city and region is a good sign for all levels of business and the establishment of an ICT iHUB that develops advanced IT skills and businesses is an ideal way to introduce young people to this new world.”

SEDA Western Cape provincial manager Alex Qunta said the municipality had contacted him with an idea for a business incubator in Thembalethu. “SEDA and the municipality has worked well together through the years and I knew Nelson Mandela Bay iHUB was looking to expand, it seemed like a perfect fit. We look forward to more projects in George, which I consider to be the new capital of the Western Cape,” said Mr Qunta.

iHUB CEO Darryl Dennis said Covid-19 had placed emphasis on the need for remote working and had made much reliant on technology. “Among the iHUB projects for Thembalethu is the Global Virtual Apprenticeship in which we identify and mentor students to the level of advanced IT skills so that they could work on database-based IT platforms such as Booking.Com and LinkedIn – both of which can be done from home and pay in American dollars.”

Situated at municipal premises next to the local Thusong Centre in Jericho Street, Thembalethu iHUB’s location next to the N2 ensures easy access to local communities and the rest of George.

Thembalethu iHUB Centre Manager Sivuyo Ngcwangu said the hub brought programmes to Thembalethu and surrounding areas that would enhance economic activity and thereby assist in solving societal challenges through the application of ICT solutions.

“The iHUB as business incubator renders support to young grassroots innovators with the needed infrastructure, industry collaborations, enterprise supplier development linkages, access to funding linkages, mentoring, and coaching and potential partners or investors.

“The iHUB helps enterprises take on the challenge of township transformation in specific industries and business sectors and creates innovative solutions to those challenges,” said Ms Ngcwangu.

Caption
iHUB CEO Darryl Dennis (left) and George Municipality Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk cut the ribbon at the formal handover of the Thembalethu iHUB today (14 October 2021).