Councillors objected to several points reflected on the municipality’s Turnaround Strategy after Municipal Manager Nonhlanhla Njoko presented it at Wednesday’s meeting. During her report back to council Ms Njoko said that contractors were already on site on several projects, including the black top construction in wards one and three; this was however disputed by councillors. Ms Njoko promised to follow up with the relevant departments.

The Municipal Manager also announced that the municipality had received an unqualified audit opinion with matters of emphasis. She told councillors that the Department of Corporate Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) had been assisting the municipality recover debt.

Ms Njoko also reported that the second electrical sub-station 57, which would increase capacity in the central business and residential areas would open in January 2015. R14.5 million in funding has also been allocated to the Weenen Taxi Rank project.

Ms Njoko also briefly spoke of a potential coal mine and power station project in Gannahoek, saying that should it be realised, it would be a boost to local economic development. Councillors approved the Turnaround Strategy, provided that the concerns raised are noted.