Ward councillors have expressed serious concerns regarding ongoing issues at the Eeufees Oord Old Age home, particularly focusing on illegal occupancy and inadequate living conditions.

Ward 69 councillor Genevieve Sherman highlighted the problem of illegal occupancy in some units, noting that tenants are violating lease agreements by disregarding rules related to housing children and grandchildren. “I conduct periodic visits to the facility, primarily in response to incidents.” She emphasised the need for clarity from the relevant departments regarding their roles in managing the facility effectively.

Read more: Witnesses speak out on the Eeufees Oord Old Age home fire

Ward 82 councillor Andrew Marais echoed these concerns, stating that severe budgetary constraints have hindered maintenance and repairs at the facility. “Several units are standing empty because they are not in a fit condition to be allocated,” Marais explained, despite a long waiting list for retirement accommodation.
He criticised the budget provided by the city for retirement housing as wholly inadequate, which had previously led to security issues at the facility when service providers were not paid. Although this security issue has been resolved, Marais noted that the failure to maintain the open spaces surrounding the complex continues to pose a security risk.

City of Johannesburg spokesperson Nthatisi Modingoane addressed the maintenance challenges at the home, acknowledging that the procurement system for repairs is cumbersome. However, he assured that progress is being made to improve turnaround times for maintenance requests at Eeufees Oord.

Modingoane also acknowledged the issue of illegal occupants and the unwelcome actions of family members residing in the estate illegally. “A reputable firm of attorneys has been appointed to address this issue and obtain eviction orders where necessary,” he stated.

Concerns about rising criminal activities in and around Eeufees were also noted, as he emphasised the importance of community safety and called for increased visible policing from local authorities to combat illegal activities in the area.

Regarding staffing, Modingoane clarified that Eeufees Oord is not classified as an old-age home but rather a housing estate for senior citizens. “As such, the only permanent staff on-site are security guards. The Human Settlements Department conducts weekly visits to address tenant concerns and inspect reported maintenance issues.”

He added that the Human Settlements Department maintains regular contact with the Social Development Department to address the needs of the elderly residents.

The publication sent questions to the Social Development Department; however, no response was forthcoming by the time of publishing. Updates will be published once made available.

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