I would like to thank everyone who voted for me, entrusting me to be the ward 30 councillor for Ballito.
Let me sum up the first two months.
I attended meetings with Docrra and it’s subcommittee from the Western Estates relating to the shacks being erected in the last few months at Shaka’s Head.
After our last meeting we requested a meeting with Director Cele of KDM Human Settlement, but he has yet to react.
We will also engage with a ward 4 representative to formalise a solution.
I have also had a house meeting with Townsend Road residents regarding the public drinking on the stairs behind the service station.
We met with the project manager on a way forward to curb this unsavoury activity. I am awaiting an update from him.
There was a massive pothole on the M4 just outside the Zimbali contractor’s gate where many motorists damaged their tyres and rims.
The road belongs to the transport department, so I contacted them to request repairs.
A few weeks later, after more motorists damaged tyres and rims, it was eventually fixed.
The Scouts wrote to the Lions Club and myself, asking for a clean-up in Townsend Park.
I have approached KDM to arrange for the cutting of the overgrowth and a clean-up exercise by the Scouts and other volunteers is scheduled for January 22.
I want to thank Desai Cash & Carry for two R1 000 food vouchers for elderly people.
The two recipients were most grateful for the extra bonus for Christmas and the holidays.
Sugar Rush Park hosted the “Africa Is Not a Jungle” concert with Black Coffee.
Events like this and the Ballito Pro are aimed at bringing in tourists and economic relief to our local businesses.
On the question of fireworks, residents are not happy with the use of fireworks over certain holidays.
There have been many reports of pets dying, being traumatised, running away from home and so on because of this.
Along with concerned residents we will look to find a solution to next year’s fireworks season.
There have also been constant reports of a certain cocktail bar playing loud music till late at night on weekends, disturbing the peace.
I wrote to municipality regarding their license(s), but so far KDM has ignored several emails from myself and members of the two estates affected.
Eventually we were informed all licenses are now in order. I pleaded with the owner and management to respect the residents.
Every councillor has a ward committee to assist with issues in the ward. This committee consists of 10 members, each with a portfolio.
NGOs and NPOs can also register with KDM for approval. Each committee member will receive a monthly stipend if they attend all meetings and submit their monthly reports which are approved by Cogta.
Dates are yet to be confirmed for these elections.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at 061 686 9071 or email: jacksballito@gmail.com if you want to bring an issue to my attention.
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