As Ward 103 residents welcome 2026, councillor Lynda Shackleford has called for renewed community engagement to tackle infrastructure, water, and billing challenges, while building on some bright spots from 2025.
She noted that the long-awaited G20 summit arrived and disappeared in a flash, and while the event brought temporary improvements to Sandton’s CBD, surrounding residential areas suffered from reduced service delivery, highlighting the need for more equitable infrastructure planning.
Read more: Pristine streets for guests, chaos for Ward 109 residents
Despite these setbacks, 2025 saw notable progress, including the resurfacing of three badly damaged roads. “Two were only partially completed, so they remain on the integrated development plan (IDP) list. We will continue pushing for full rehabilitation.”
She added that tourism, and the events sector, also showed signs of recovery, a vital boost for local jobs and economic activity. However, residents continued to face persistent challenges. Ageing water infrastructure caused repeated pipe bursts, flooding, and outages.
Billing disputes with City Power and Johannesburg Water escalated, leaving many residents disconnected despite timely payments and logged queries.
“Resolving billing issues becomes nearly impossible for residents who work during office hours, when the city’s systems are down.”
Looking ahead, Ward 103’s priorities for 2026 focus on improving service delivery, completing key road repairs, and ensuring better water and electricity infrastructure.
Shackelford encouraged residents to take part in the city’s community-based planning sessions, IDP consultations, and rates and tariffs engagements.
“Stronger community participation improves our chances of delivery in 2026. Your input on pipe replacements, resurfacing, streetlights, or substation upgrades matters.”
Also read: Replacement borehole pump eases Sandton SPCA water crises
On a lighter note, Shackelford added a festive wish.
“If Johannesburg Roads Agency truly wants to spread festive cheer, completing the Pretoria Road repair would be the ultimate gift.
Imagine starting January without needing a PhD in detours, and perhaps even spotting a Rea Vaya bus actually moving.” Shackelford concluded her New Year message with gratitude and optimism.
“Thank you to every Ward 103 resident for your resilience and support in 2025. As we enter 2026, I wish you a blessed year.
To those who will be travelling from home back to the workplaces, travel safely, and let’s work together to make 2026 a year of delivery and improvement for our ward.”
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
