GEORGE NEWS - "In the coming months we will be working hard to regain the trust of our George citizens," said Leon van Wyk, the DA mayoral candidate, on Tuesday. Van Wyk, who will most likely become the new mayor, was commenting on the road ahead.
According to him the immediate task is to deal with the draft budget for 2020/21. "Once tabled, the entire budget will need to be adjusted to take account of the impact of Covid-19, which will reduce expected revenue, resulting in cutbacks in expenditure."
The next priorities relate to building trust with the administration, reviewing service delivery standards and handling the ongoing effects of Covid-19. At the same time, Council will deal with the resolution of various maladministration matters.
"We face the massive task of assisting the business sector as it grapples with the Covid-19 disaster. We think here especially about the SME and tourism / leisure sectors. We will all need wisdom to provide the advice and support required to restore business and importantly, jobs."
Re-building the George economy carries high priority. Van Wyk envisages various economic sectors discussing and collaborating on the essentials, so that the private sector can lead growth, jobs and opportunities to improve the lives of the entire community.
Increased and inclusive economic activity providing opportunities is the only meaningful solution to uplift our many disadvantaged citizens.
"George is blessed with many talented, inspirational and generous citizens who do unbelievably good work in many fields. I am confident that together we are going to embrace my vision for George to become the most admired small city in the country."
Van Wyk is married to Gail, who served as a councillor in the City of Johannesburg from 1994 to 2006, including a five-year stint as Chief Whip of the DA caucus. "My interests range from economics, politics, energy and nature to wine, birding and walking," said Van Wyk.
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