Ward 104 Councillor urges urgent action as service delivery lags

As 2025 draws to a close, Ward 104 Clr Tracey Lourenco reflected on a year of mixed emotions as residents still face persistent service delivery challenges, but also celebrates small yet meaningful victories.

“This year has been one of the most challenging in my time as a councillor. Many roads in my ward are riddled with potholes, making driving unsafe, and some are virtually undrivable, causing many insurance claims for vehicle damage,” Lourenco said.

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Traffic lights on provincial roads, such as the P91, remain a concern, while streetlights have been out of order for nearly two years, leaving communities vulnerable.

Lourenco also raised the ongoing illegal dumping, litter and rubbish in public spaces, especially along Green Avenue.

She thanked the waste department for their efforts, but called on the EMPD to monitor the area and act against offenders.
Sanitation teams, she noted, are overwhelmed, with reinstatements often delayed.

“Despite the challenges, I commend the teams that worked in the rain and cold to get things done,” Lourenco added.

She highlighted further concerns, including stalled BRT projects, repeated lengthy power outages affecting residents needing oxygen and refrigeration, high crime levels and growing homelessness.

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She stressed that residents deserve better and vowed to continue holding the city accountable.

Looking ahead, Ward 104 has identified clear Integrated Development Plan (IDP) priorities, some of which have been on the list for over a decade:

• Installing a fence along residential areas on Zuurfontein;
• Upgrading infrastructure in the Norkem Park pan, benefiting streets, including Pikkewyn;
• Upgrading sporting facilities at the Dries Niemand Sporting Complex;
• Establishing a mini taxi rank in Birch Acres at Kwartel and P91;
• Expanding and upgrading failing water and sanitation infrastructure.

Despite ongoing challenges, progress has been made this year, with several critical roads resurfaced.

“Persistence pays off. Because our communities deserve visible improvements, we will continue to push departments to deliver,” Lourenco said.

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She reiterated urgent calls to the mayor and the CoE to:
• deliver an acceptable level of service;
• address the funding crisis and ensure contractors are paid on time;
• prioritise infrastructure upgrades in Ward 104;
• Implement stronger measures to combat crime and lawlessness;
• Work with communities to restore trust and fulfil IDP commitments.

“Our residents cannot wait any longer. Ward 104 must be prioritised in 2026, with real action to restore dignity, safety and reliable services,” Lourenco said.

She thanked officials, colleagues and residents for their ongoing support and wished everyone a safe, blessed festive season and a prosperous 2026.