Councillor Simon Lapping highlights persistent issues of 2024
Addressing infrastructure concerns, Lapping shared his frustration over a motion he submitted to the council.
As 2024 draws to a close, Clr Simon Lapping acknowledges several persistent issues will carry over into the new year.
One of the ongoing challenges is the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, which continues to struggle with a stop-start implementation process.
“This has severely affected commuters in Kempton Park and placed an additional strain on businesses forced to contend with incomplete infrastructure,” said Lapping.
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Reflecting on municipal department performances, Lapping noted a mixed outcome.
“Some departments have excelled under challenging conditions, but others have failed.
“The roads department has been the biggest disappointment, as we are still battling to get basic road repairs done,” he said.
Lapping is also concerned about the lack of by-law enforcement.
“It is almost non-existent, with some residents acting as though they are above the law, disregarding the rights of their fellow citizens,” he stated.
He said the state of streetlight and traffic signal repairs remained at an all-time low.
He highlighted a tragedy that struck during the year when a teenager lost her life after being hit by a train in Rhodesfield.
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“I have written to the Minister of Transport, urging the implementation of proper safety measures to prevent people from walking on railway tracks,” he said.
Addressing infrastructure concerns, Lapping shared his frustration over a motion he submitted to the council.
The motion requested an audit and replacement of electrical cables older than 20 years, but it was rejected.
“Despite daily outages caused by theft and ageing infrastructure, they claim there is no issue,“ he said.
Looking ahead, Lapping remains hopeful for positive changes in 2025.
“Let’s hope for a more productive year. I wish everyone a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, and hope 2025 brings success for all,” he said.
