Councillor sheds light on municipal performance in the city
Kriek criticised the Energy Department for neglect, highlighting the prevalence of illegal connections and cable theft.
Freedom Front Plus Proportional Representative Clr Jean Kriek shared his assessment of the City of Ekurhuleni’s municipal departments for 2024, rating them on a scale of 1 to 10.
His analysis paints a vivid picture of service delivery challenges and occasional highlights.
Energy Department: 3/10
Kriek criticised the Energy Department for neglect, highlighting the prevalence of illegal connections and cable theft.
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“Mini substations are left wide open, basically gift-wrapped for criminals,” he said.
“Power outages are a daily gamble, with little to no feedback or accountability. Reporting outages feels like shouting into the void.”
Water and Sanitation: 7/10
Despite recurring leaks and sewage overflows, Kriek commended this department as the city’s most reliable.
“They work harder than a plumber on speed dial,” he quipped.
“The system might be held together with duct tape and hope, but at least they bring the tape.”
Waste Management: 5/10
Illegal dumping and inconsistent garbage collection earned the Waste Management Department a mixed review.
“Wheelie bins are disappearing like magicians and illegal dumping has become the city’s hottest new landscaping trend,” said Kriek.
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Roads and Transport: 5/10
Kriek described potholes as vast enough to be mistaken for meteor craters and traffic lights as “decorative chaos.”
However, he expressed optimism for 2025.
“Smoother rides and re-tarred roads might be on the horizon,” he noted.
Parks and Cemeteries: 4/10
The department was praised for its perseverance despite significant budget cuts and resource shortages.
“Against all odds, they keep things afloat, even dipping into their own salaries,” said Kriek.
“Heroes don’t always wear capes; sometimes they wield spades and drive tractors.”
Customer Care: 2/10
Kriek criticised the city’s customer service and the CoE app, describing both as frustratingly ineffective.
EMPD: 6/10
The EMPD received moderate praise for managing basics like speed traps and visible policing.
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“They do their best despite financial constraints. Compared to other departments, they’re practically overachievers,” Kriek said.
Kriek concluded that 2024 was marked by declining service delivery.
“Power outages made load-shedding feel like a nostalgic luxury, water infrastructure crumbled under neglect, and potholes became Kempton Park’s urban landmarks,” he said.
Looking ahead, Kriek emphasised the need for consistent electricity, drivable roads, reliable waste collection, and a municipality that genuinely cares about its residents.
Kriek reserved his highest praise for the residents of Kempton Park, applauding their resilience.
“You’ve kept the lights on when the power didn’t, manoeuvred through potholes, and kept laughing when crying felt more appropriate,” he said.
As a councillor for Kempton Park, Kriek reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for improved service delivery.“Your determination inspires me to keep fighting for better services on your behalf,” he said.
