Fourways Improvement District revolutionises community safety and maintenance
Safety and protection come first in Fourways. Councillor David Foley shares more about the innovative new initiative.
Ward 94 councillor David Foley has proudly announced that the Fourways Improvement District is spearheading transformative change in the area.
Established earlier this year as a voluntary management initiative (VMI), this non-profit company brings together property owners and businesses to fund supplementary services enhancing the public environment.
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He said the primary objective of the non-profit company is to provide well-managed cleaning, landscaping, maintenance, and security services.
“Security is a top priority, with Fidelity Security providing vehicle patrols, joint operations with law enforcement, and CCTV surveillance. Cleaning and maintenance services include litter picking, waste collection, and grass cutting.”
The district has recently inaugurated its initial service, focused on security, and is currently developing a budget to roll out the additional services. This expansion is part of a one-year proof of concept period, as outlined by Foley.
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He said during the first year, the service offerings will be expanded based on contributions secured and priories identified by the members. The impact of these interventions will then be measured to confirm the long-term solutions to be deployed, and the sustainability of the Fourways Improvement District.
To put words into action, security officers who joined the organisation have increased their presence along Winnie Mandela Drive to show residents their commitment to safety and protection.
Juandre Vorster, the operational cluster commander at Fidelity Security Group who oversees a broad range of areas including Fourways, Lonehill, Dainfern, and Chartwell, among others, said his leadership plays a crucial role in maintaining safety in these communities.
“We joined the organisation because it aligns with our vision and mission to ensure that our community is safe, and today we are showcasing our visibility so that the community can familiarize themselves with the organisation. It is still new but has been going on for a few months.”
Foley said the company also aims to address pressing issues such as dysfunctional traffic signals, streetlights, illegal advertising, homelessness, informal trading, and taxi overflow. He said they will do this through partnerships with government entities and stakeholders to facilitate collaborative problem-solving.
“Our current commitments amount to R323 584. We are in the process of securing further budget to extend the service offerings and projects on the ground.”
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