The Western Cape Provincial Government has formally resolved to extend the current intervention in Oudtshoorn from 17 May until a new council is constituted following Local Government elections on 3 August 2016. The intervention was first initiated on 31 July 2015 in terms of SECTION 139(1)(b) of the Constitution.

The Administrator and the Department of Local Government are developing a hand-over plan for the newly elected council in Oudtshoorn. The plan is to ensure that there is a smooth transition and that the support measures initiated during the period of administration are seen through till completion. The Oudtshoorn Municipality has been placed on a recovery trajectory and it will require the new council to maintain this path onwards to a full recovery.

Anton Bredell, the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says considerable progress has been made since the commencement of the intervention. “However in order to maintain the momentum created by the intervention and recovery measures implemented and the support provided, it is imperative that the intervention and associated support initiatives must continue,” says Bredell.

As communicated previously, the administrator inherited a dire situation that continues to present many challenges.
“Finances, skills and backlogs in terms of infrastructure and maintenance, remain a huge problem in addressing the challenges on the ground.”

Progress report:

1. Forensic Report
The forensic investigation report was handed to Minister Bredell in March. In terms thereof, 132 transgressions, mainly in terms of the MFMA, municipal policies and other legislation were identified, as well as two cases of alleged corruption and eight of fraud. Criminal charges against implicated officials are being instituted. This process remains ongoing.

2. Municipal Disciplinary Action
Furthermore, municipal disciplinary charges were instituted against officials of which some have been suspended. This disciplinary action is in progress.

3. Infrastructure
A major challenge has been addressing capacity challenges relating to water treatment works in Oudtshoorn. To meet current and expected demand, a 3 Megalitre per day mothballed waste treatment facility has now been refurbished and is being brought back online at an estimated cost of R4.8 million.
In addition the town’s existing 6ML per day facility has been upgraded and is currently processing 8.3 ML per day.
An amount of R5.8 m has been allocated to upgrading the entire water treatment capability of the municipality.

• The provincial department has pledged support in Dysselsdorp and De Rust for drought related projects. This support remains ongoing.

4. Cango Caves
An interim manager was appointed for the Caves, who reports directly to the Administrator. Operations have since stabilised and visitor numbers have increased.

Minister Bredell has thanked his colleagues and counterparts at National and Provincial Government Departments for their continued assistance with regards to the intervention in Oudtshoorn.
“This intervention has always been and remains a combined effort between local, provincial and national government.”

 

Issued by Western Cape Government