Councillor leads revitalisation of JMPD satellite offices in Kenilworth
The joint effort will breathe new life into the offices and ensure staff are ready to serve the community.
The building in Kenilworth, which previously belonged to the owners of SUPERSPAR Kenilworth, was donated to the JMPD team responsible for Region F2 in 2017.
Clr Sarah Wissler and local businesses collaborated to clean up and revamp the JMPD satellite office to improve services to the community.
The station has faced several complaints from the community because they cannot access a police station quickly enough. The office aims to bridge the gap between the community and nearby police stations, including Booysens, Moffat View and Mondeor.
JMPD regional commander MA Masera said, “When people come to the office, we will assess the nature of the complaint and do the referral by transporting the complainant to the nearest police station or health facility.”
The satellite office will now help with various cases, such as assault, grievous bodily harm and other important matters, by providing transportation to the nearest relevant police station. In addition, the station now has Commissioner of Oaths stamps, allowing residents to certify documents at the office.
Wissler, who involved local businesses in the station’s revitalisation, shared, “Unfortunately, these offices had nothing, so I took it upon myself to get the local businesses involved to assist in putting the station back together to where it needs to be and serve the community.”
While the renovations are ongoing, Wissler said essential repairs are underway to fix the toilets, basins and leaks. Mario Stephanou from SUPERSPAR is handling other necessary repairs. The next phase of the revamp will focus on acquiring copiers and printers and ensuring the Wi-Fi works.
The community has been generous in supporting the renovation.
“We are grateful for the sponsors, such as the SUPERSPAR Kenilworth, for doing all the repairs, Tip Top Meat Products for the Commissioner of Oaths stamps, Gareth Anthony for the toilets, Frontline Plumbers and the Glenvista Country Club for the microwave,” Wissler added.
As the renovations continue, more businesses will join to ensure the building is fully functional. The officers are eager to serve and have assured the public they will do their utmost to protect and support residents in Region F.
Local businesses and the community are working to bring the satellite office to its full potential, ensuring it serves effectively and becomes an accessible resource for residents and those in the surrounding areas.
