GEORGE NEWS - Newly appointed Director of Human Settlements, Charles Lubbe, shared his hopes and plans for the new year with the George Herald. His family plays an important role in his everyday life, and he houses a canine called "Simba", who loves hunting moles.
Name a few things you are looking forward to in the new year.
I look forward to contributing to and developing a diverse and holistic approach in the delivery of housing for all typologies, which is crucial in addressing the housing backlogs.
This includes addressing the challenges of backyard dwellers, Gap and Social housing and the informal settlement dialogue. Apart from these objectives it is also imperative that we provide affordable accommodation for the workforce we intend to attract to George, especially geared towards our vision to becoming a metropolitan city.
What puts a jump in your step at work?
First of all, it is the harmonious working relations of colleagues in my directorate, exerting themselves outside their own portfolios to ensure we have happy and satisfied customers, as well as the continued support of the employer component (Council) in the objectives set to attaining our common goals. The impression is that of a "colony", pulling together to a common vision.
Secondly, my own family who supports me in everything I do and believe in me. But most important is the fact that all my efforts will be nothing if not inspired by the Almighty God. All these give me the "Nike moments" (jump in my step) in my daily life.
What challenges do you foresee for 2018?
Meeting the increasing housing challenges of a rapidly growing town like George cannot be achieved by an administration that operates in isolation.
As such, the Human Settlements Directorate recognises the importance of close collaboration and partnerships with all stakeholders, including other directorates and departments, regional, provincial and national government bodies, the broader public sector, the private business sector, and the communities and citizens of George themselves.
The challenges we currently face are particularly those created by urbanisation, which is caused by the town's steadily growing population and net migration into George.
The human settlements environment is faced with numerous other challenges, some of which can be met in the short term, but many of which require a longer-term view and approach.
What are your new year's plans with your family/friends?
My mother-in-law in the Northern Cape turns 80, a remarkable achievement these days, especially for a woman who raised her offspring all alone on a meagre income for the major part of her life.
We will be celebrating with her whilst spending the remaining time in and around the Northern Cape.
When you get home after a long day … what puts a smile to your face?
When I walk in at home, a mood-swing is brought about by seeing the faces of my wife and daughter, knowing that they too are happy to see me.
My wife is always eager to hear about my day and my general mood. The ensuing conversation will then centre around the two boys that keep her busy.
Do you have a pet? If yes, what is it and what are their names?
I have a dog called Simba (a bullador), actually my daughter's. He is a lively and energetic canine and an avid mole-hunter.
If you could table a motion in Council, what would it be?
Notwithstanding the housing allocation policy guidelines which fairly is intended to advantage the elderly members of our community, that the local authority be allowed freedom and discretion with the implementation thereof to minimise the risks of youth feeling left out and embarking on protest action.
Any New Year's resolutions?
Harmonious working relations within the Council as well as within the entire staff establishment. Love and peace in this world.
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