“Please, attend the ward meetings.”
Non-attendance at public meetings was harming residents. “People keeping quiet could mean they are happy. When they see their accounts, they get a shock.”
Apathy could cost residents in the long run.
In the face of increasing absence at public information meetings, the community is urged to be present on September 17 (Thursday) from 6pm at the Fernwood Multipurpose Centre.
Pressing matters, such as recent rates increases, will be tabled.
Explaining the path leading to this meeting, Ward Three Councillor, Matthew Shunmugam said it followed a meeting at the War Room recently, involving various Government departments.
“The Department of Home Affairs spoke about targeted registrations, and the IEC talked about the new demarcation and effects of three new wards for Newcastle.”
Other presentations included the Department of Agriculture, on mentorship programmes for garden projects, and the Department of Sport and Recreation on activities for youth in Ward Three.
A pressing concern remains alcoholism and drug abuse.
‘The community has previously asked questions about the Fernwood cricket facility, the park and indigent policies.”
Cllr Shunmugam added prepaid meters, to be discussed, allowed for control of consumption instead of metering, which this month had caused outcry in the community.
However, he suggested non-attendance at public meetings was harming residents.
“People keeping quiet could mean they are happy. When they see their accounts, they get a shock.”
For more information, contact Cllr Shunmugam on 082 807 8919.
