WATCH: Meet ward 54 councillor Stuart Marais

Ward 54 councillor Stuart Marais has been in his role for a mere five months. He said he loved it and he is prepared to serve the community of the South.

Six years ago he decided to get actively involved in politics because of the then situation in the South African government landscape.

“I couldn’t just sit and do nothing while our country was in a mess. I had to take a stand and do something, and hence I joined the Democratic Alliance.

“They have a general vision that I could support and they are a diverse party. For the greater good I had to join them, to get a sense of belonging,” he said.

Marais mentioned that he is a people’s person and he described himself as ‘the champion for people who don’t want to talk’.

“I’m a go-getter, I fight to the end. That’s why I help people in my ward, although it has not been plain sailing,” he said.

How have these five months on the job been?

“It has been a rude awakening. I thought you just write an email, send it and then things get done. It has not been as easy as I thought.

“However, there is a sense of job satisfaction especially after helping someone and they would call you to say ‘thank you’. That is satisfying.

“I have forged relationships with different City entities. I use my experience and charm to get my work done.

“Although I am media shy, I know this job entails engagement with the media often.”

Challenges faced

“Getting pavements maintained is a bigger mission than parks. Grass in parks are being cut regularly.

“Potholes are a nightmare because they start as small holes and then they end up being big.

“Also, speeding in the area is a problem especially in Columbine Avenue. We have seen many accidents especially when it is raining. I urge the residents to be cautious at all times.

“People litter and that is a problem and loitering is also a concern.

“We also have vagrants in the area and we are trying to sort out that problem as well.”

Successes

“All 30 reported street lights have been fixed in my ward. The lights on Swartgoud Street bridge across N12, which were burning during the day, have been fixed.

“The relationship among Mondeor SAPS, CPF and all the security companies in the area is great.

“I’m glad to announce that the Mondeor Post Office will be up and running soon.

“Again, the additional water tower that is being built next to Xavier Street will be a huge relief to the community.

“We are continuing with our clean-up campaign ‘A re sebetseng’ and I implore residents to heed that call and come in numbers to help.

“Lastly, my community needs to understand that it is easier for me to escalate their grievances if they log calls, so they must do that and get a reference number and then I will take it from there.”

Marais can be contacted on 082 775 1332, email stuart@ward54jhbsouth.co.za

WATCH: