GEORGE NEWS - Opposition parties congratulated George Mayor Melvin Naik on his mayoral address at the council meeting last Wednesday 29 November.

Naik covered many issues, including the improvement of the water levels, the need and delivering of housing and his commitment to ensure the safety of all who live, work, play, serve and study in George.

In their replies, opposition councillors commented on Naik's speech, saying it was much more than mere cajolery.

Councillors took the opportunity to bring a jolly atmosphere to the meeting with comments on the appreciation of beauty (Miss Universe), the mayor's ability to bring rain and anticipation of their year-end function (tomorrow, Friday 8 December).

Piet van der Hoven (ANC) congratulated the mayor on the increased water levels of the dam, much to the enjoyment of the rest. 

"Thank you, Mayor, for the rain. I think we prayed the hardest from this (ANC's) side."

Council reacted with a bellow of laughter when Virgill Gericke (PBI) thanked the mayor that he has "listened to the PBI" regarding the issue of housing.

"You say you have a development model, you will expedite housing to the city for the benefit of the people, and most probably you can also give the Speaker (Iona Kritzinger) a house."

Kritzinger thanked Gericke, saying, "I've got a house. I maybe need other things, but I will let you know."

Johan du Toit (ACDP) congratulated Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters with her accomplishment of winning the Miss Universe title. "She is a daughter from our region and we are very proud of her," said Du Toit.

Acting Municipal Manager Walter Hendricks.

Langa Langa (ANC) expressed his appreciation for the Speaker's choice of 8 December for Council's year-end function - because it's on his birthday, and Abel Kiwit (AIC) thanked the citizens of Zimbabwe for removing their president from power.

ARTICLE & PHOTOS: MICHELLE PIENAAR, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST

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