Councillor flags critical fire truck shortage at Ekurhuleni fire station
The City is investigating suspected subletting, non-payment of municipal services, and possible criminal activity at the site.
Ward 20 Clr Jill Humphreys has raised concerns about the Ted Kirkby Fire Station’s lack of operational fire engines, as well as the condition and occupancy of the adjacent firemen’s cottages.
During a recent site visit, Humphreys stated that the facility does not have a functional fire engine.
According to Humphreys there are 20 cottages, which were originally built to accommodate firemen who were required to stay overnight.
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She noted that over the years, the cottages have come to house individuals who were not originally intended to live there, with some reportedly being privately sublet.
Humphreys also questioned whether the current occupants are paying rates and taxes, adding that residents have raised concerns about alleged ongoing illegal activities at the site.
In response, the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) confirmed that 19 of the cottages are owned by the municipality, while one is registered under SANRAL.
City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said that the matter is under investigation.
When asked whether any audits had been conducted to determine how many people live in the cottages and whether the units are legally occupied or sublet, Dlamini responded that inspections are conducted quarterly, but these have been non-conclusive.
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“They are considered non-conclusive because the department’s officials are not granted access to the premises by the occupants.”
He added that the department now intends to request assistance from the EMPD to gain access to the cottages, enabling the compilation of a fully compliant inspection report.
Should evidence of illegal subletting be found, Dlamini confirmed that eviction proceedings will be initiated.
Regarding allegations of criminal activity, he said: “The department does not conduct crime assessments on municipal properties. However, should such activity be discovered during the inspection, it will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.”
On the issue of non-payment for municipal services, Dlamini said the department has forwarded information regarding challenges at the properties to the finance, water, and energy departments.
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The request includes recommendations for appropriate measures to manage service consumption, such as addressing the absence of water and electricity meters.
No responses were given regarding the availability of fire engines or the contingency plans in place for fire emergencies.
Dlamini also did not respond to questions about plans to procure or repair fire trucks for the station.
