What you should expect of your ward councillor

How much power do ward councillors actually have to solve issues in the communities they represent?

As local elections on November 1 draw closer, it is worth knowing what you should look for in a councillor and what you should and should not hold them accountable for once they are elected.

The Courier spoke to Ward 16 (Stanger Heights/KwaDukuza Industrial Area) councillor, Jennifer Vallan and Ward 6 (Ballito) councillor, Tammy Colley about their role and what councillors should bring to their constituencies.

“The primary role of the councillor is to be in constant interaction with their community. They are the link between citizens and the government, lobbying for projects, budget adjustments and anything else that the government deals with,” said Vallan.

In fulfilling this role, councillors should have an intimate knowledge of how local government works.

The reason for this is twofold: they should be able to leverage for change within the bounds of their position as well as being able to help their constituents with any municipal issues they may encounter.

“The councillor is the starting point in your community if you want to raise any matters with the municipality,” said Colley.

This does not mean that they can necessarily make things happen immediately however, as there is a limit on their power.

“The perception is that if there is an issue, the councillor can go to the municipality and get it fixed instantly. The fact remains that the municipality has to approve any changes that get made. What a councillor needs to be doing after raising the issue in the relevant portfolio, is following up on the process regularly so that the municipality can be held accountable,” said Colley.

Councillors also fulfil an important role as the representatives of their communities in council. Every month, council meets to discuss and approve projects in the municipality.

Councillors have the ability to read and vote on these matters, with the right to raise any problems or issues they may have.

When asked what to look for in a councillor, Vallan emphasised that availability is the main trait that voters should focus on.

“Councillors should not just be available when it suits them and their party, come election time. If you do not know who your councillor is then they have not done their job. They should be available both in person during office hours and via phone and email. Everything in your life is impacted by government in some way, so make sure that you elect someone who is going to represent your interests and not just collect a pay cheque,” she said.

Both urged the public to do their homework and make an informed decision come election day.

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