Ward 4 residents wage war against potholes
Since launching the project in Ward 4, Meiring has received donations earmarked for pothole repairs in other areas of Newcastle.
Frustrated by the worsening condition of roads in Hutten Heights, Ward 4 Councillor Bertie Meiring along with various Hutten Heights residents, rolled up their sleeves and got to work — quite literally.
In an exclusive interview with the Newcastle Advertiser, Cllr Meiring explained how his hands-on pothole repair project has grown into a community initiative.
“It got to a point where I couldn’t watch the roads deteriorate any further. Instead of waiting, I decided to do what I could with the available resources,” he said.
Asked what inspired him to take direct action, Meiring said:
“I’m aware of the municipality’s cash flow issues, especially when it comes to procuring enough material and tar for road repairs. With this in mind, I accepted a donation of 20 bags of cold tar and filled 14 potholes myself.”
This personal involvement marked the beginning of the Ward 4 Pothole Project, which quickly caught the attention of residents.
Meiring described the public’s response as ‘overwhelming’ once he had posted updates on the repairs on social media.
“Residents wanted to get involved and asked how they could contribute. Because I prefer not to handle any cash, I arranged with Build-It Newcastle to accept payments for tar. Donors simply send me the payment slip so I can monitor progress. Build-It also keeps a running list of what has been purchased, and the tar is delivered to me at month-end, making it easier for those who prefer to contribute after payday.”
Simple and transparent
This system has made community involvement simple and transparent and even encouraged greater participation.
“People were frustrated,” Meiring recalled. “Their car tyres were being damaged by the potholes. The rain would wash out those temporarily filled with sand, resulting in dangerous, hidden hazards.”
As a daily driver within his ward and beyond, Meiring used first hand observation to determine which potholes posed the greatest risks.
“Some potholes are so deep and unavoidable that they could easily cause accidents. Those are my top priority.”
Despite this being a grassroots initiative, Meiring confirmed that the municipality had not objected to his help.
“They even offered their labour and equipment to support the project. While I don’t have the proper tools for professional repairs, their assistance will go a long way towards improving the quality and efficiency of our work.”
Meiring strongly believes in cooperation between leaders and residents.
“Of course, people already pay rates and taxes. But if the municipality is struggling financially, we shouldn’t allow that to stop us from stepping in. In the end, we’re the ones dealing with these daily issues. We have one choice: live with it or deal with it.”
Since launching the project in Ward 4, Meiring has received donations earmarked for pothole repairs in other areas of Newcastle.
“This approach can be replicated in every ward,” he said. “I just started in Ward 4 because it’s where I serve.”
While the project had been well-received, Meiring admitted there have been a few naysayers.
“Only about three people questioned why they should contribute if they already pay rates and taxes. But that’s a small number compared to the dozens of individuals and businesses who’ve donated – more than 100 bags so far!”
One story in particular stood out to him.
“A mother told me that her 10-year-old daughter took R95 from her own savings to donate a bag of tar. That’s the kind of spirit we want to encourage – showing our children can also make a difference where they live.”
Meiring hopes that the project will remain sustainable.
“I’d love to see businesses challenging each other to see who can donate the most tar or schools hosting civvies days to raise funds. It’s about creating a culture of involvement. The Advertiser can also play a crucial role by highlighting this initiative and motivating other wards to follow suit.”
Although the immediate focus is potholes, Meiring believed this approach could be a blueprint for broader civic engagement.
Councillor Meiring urged all residents and community leaders to act within their means.
“We are a resilient community. Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or a school principal, you can make a difference. Remember, we only have two choices: live with it – or deal with it.”
Cllr Meiring wished to thank every resident and business who stepped up to the plate and assisted in getting the project off the ground.
To get involved or donate cold tar for the Ward 4 Pothole Project, visit Build-It Newcastle and reference the initiative at checkout.
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