GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality recently concluded a successful round of public participation sessions as part of the annual review of its 2025/2026 Integrated Development Plan (IDP).
The sessions offered Ward Councillors and Ward Committee members an opportunity to reflect on progress made with ward priorities and to engage directly with municipal service delivery departments.
Held from 21-31 October in Thembalethu, Pacaltsdorp, Conville, and at the George Banquet Hall, the engagements covered all 28 wards in the municipal area. Each Ward Committee received feedback on the ten capital and ten operational priorities identified through community consultation and included in the IDP.
Ronél Valla, who chaired the sessions alongside Dr Kosie Haarhoff from the Directorate: IDP, Strategic Growth and Development, said the sessions achieved their goal of transparent communication and collaboration.
Patrick Moolman, Vida Josephs, Alida Paul and Mary-Jane Boezak from Ward 20 at the meeting.“These engagements aimed to report back on priorities raised during the first round of public participation,” said Valla. “We received valuable feedback from councillors and Ward Committee members, and the discussions were constructive and solutions-driven.”
Service delivery departments also presented overviews of their activities, achievements, and challenges, ensuring that progress and constraints were communicated clearly to ward representatives.
Dr Haarhoff highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue between government and citizens: “Citizen-centric governance leads to more sustainable and equitable development by ensuring that government services prioritise the needs and aspirations of the people they serve,” he said. “Regular feedback reassures communities that their concerns are being addressed and builds trust between citizens and government.”
He said that a lack of communication often fuels public frustration and unrest, while consistent updates - such as these IDP feedback sessions - strengthen participation and foster accountability.
Residents who wish to learn more or get involved in future engagements are encouraged to contact their Ward Councillor or the IDP Office at 044 801 9074.
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