A delegation from the DA Mangaung Caucus met with the City Municipal Manager (MM) of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Sello More, yesterday to address persistent service delivery challenges. The purpose of the meeting was to foster solutions and improvements for the benefit of the community.
The meeting addressed various service delivery issues, including water supply, stormwater repair/ management, road maintenance/repair, pothole repairs, bridge maintenance, specifically the Lelie-Road bridge Ferreira, Bulk Water and Centlec WhatsApp groups, refuse removal, illegal dumping, signage and traffic signals, municipal account estimates, effective communication, policies, sewage management, pothole claims, council motions on service delivery, ICT oversight requests, dispute resolution mechanisms, debt collection, Botshabelo infrastructure repairs, bucket system and pit toilets in Botshabelo, and water treatment plant issues in Botshabelo.
The MM committed to intensifying efforts to maintain and replace infrastructure promptly, utilising unspent grants to prevent repayment obligations to the National Treasury. He agreed to proposals on efficient water provision and proper utilisation of public funds for reservoir erection and maintenance. Additionally, he agreed to replace ball valves to facilitate automated operations and committed to enhancing communication channels, refuse removal, and appointing qualified contractors for various tasks. He pledged to review and enforce municipal policies and by-laws, expedite response to service-related matters, and address deficiencies in the dispute resolution process.
Furthermore, Sello More assured prompt feedback to the DA every 14 days regarding discussed service delivery issues. His proactive communication was evident in his directive to officials to acknowledge and provide updates on matters raised.
While acknowledging the MM's commitments, we remain cautiously optimistic, recognising the challenges ahead. The DA is committed to supporting the municipality in fulfilling its promises and ensuring accountability.
However, it's important to note the potential for interference from the ANC-led political sphere within the MMM administration. Given the historical performance of the municipality under ANC governance, the need for systemic change is evident. Residents are urged to register to vote online to bring about a new government capable of delivering efficient services, akin to those experienced in municipalities governed by the Democratic Alliance.
Together, we strive for tangible improvements in service delivery for the benefit of all residents.
Issued by Hardie Viviers - DA Caucus Leader Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality