Update
GEORGE NEWS - Following a statement by the Good Party earlier today, accusing George Municipality of dragging its feet with service delivery in certain areas around Pacaltsdorp, Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michelle Gratz said many of the issues are receiving attention, but they cannot be resolved in a few days.
Gratz confirmed that Good Councillor Richard Hector has sent several queries and requests to the administration, but added that it is impossible for Council to accede to all the requests within financial constraints.
Millions
The cost for the electrification of an informal settlement runs between R10 000 and R13 000 per structure. Furthermore, the cost of bulk infrastructure upgrades should be taken into account.
Mayor Leon van Wyk said in Council this morning that there are a total of 7 000 informal structures in the George area and the estimated cost to electrify all of them is between R70 and R91-million. “This is not possible within financial constraints,” Gratz added in her response.
Unlawful
Gratz said today’s protest action is unlawful and accordingly handled by the police, who act of their own accord and not, as suggested, under instruction of the executive mayor.
“This morning Go George vehicles carrying passengers were threatened by the very same ‘peaceful’ protestors and buses had to be escorted from the area,” she said.
The following actions have already taken place with regard to the informal settlement Moeggeploeg, following heavy rainfall last year:
1. Water was pumped from the affected sites to improve drainage and the storm water system;
2. Access roads were improved by provision of G7 to improve accessibility;
3. Gunplast was provided to shield from incessant rain; and
4. Inspections were conducted to assess the condition of the structures.
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