• Frans Le Grange writes:

Regarding the 20% water restrictions, I would like to raise the following:

First, how does it work?

1. As I understand it, the Rand West City Council – consisting of the mayor, City Manager and 69 councillors – is responsible for managing the municipality.

2. This includes Randfontein CBD, Toekomsrus, Mohlakeng, all plots and farms, Westonaria, Bekkersdal, Simunye, Borwa, Hillshaven, Glenharvie, and surrounding mines and farming areas.

3. During Council meetings, decisions are taken, including the implementation of measures such as the current 20% water restrictions.

4. Taxpayers should be urgently informed of such decisions through the media – including the Randfontein Herald, radio stations and in all local languages.

• Also read: No water, no answers – Bekkersdal residents demand action

5. What is the actual programme?

a. Times when water is available
b. Times when water is turned off
c. Dates
d. Times

e. For example:

• Monday: 11:00–06:00 (date)
• Tuesday: 06:00–12:00 (date)
• Wednesday: 12:00–18:00 (date)
• Thursday: 18:00–22:00 (date)
• Friday: 22:00–13:00 (date)
• Saturday: 13:00–06:00 (date)
• Sunday: 06:00–12:00 (date)

6. Is this not the professional way to handle it?

7. At present, not one taxpayer knows what is going on.

• Also read: UPDATE: Current reservoir water levels critically low

We pay tax, and we have the right to know what councillors decide. At this stage, taxpayers know nothing.

I refer to the Herald’s November 21 edition, page 3, which includes Phillip Montshiwa’s article about water levels at the water towers.

Can he explain what this actually means? We do not understand.

Does he know that Randfontein’s water comes from the Vaal Dam?

Does he know the floodgates were opened recently because of high water levels, and yet our water towers remain empty?

How can it be that our towers only have the minimum amount of water? I am aware that the Rand West City Council is not paying Rand Water as agreed. I would like to know how much Rand West City Council currently pays Rand Water – I would like actual figures.

Taxpayers must also be careful: one of these days, load-shedding may return because of the amount owed to Eskom. Council, please explain how much you owe Eskom for electricity. Where are our councillors from the West Rand?

Taxpayers say their water and electricity bills remain the same every month – and then, in the third month, the water suddenly becomes more expensive, if there is water. Do you want proof? Rand West City Council, it is available in black and white.

Regards, still a thirsty taxpayer!

The Randfontein Herald reached out to municipal spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa, who acknowledged the request for comment. However, no response has been received as of yet.