Anger over lack of service unites Alliance

TEMPERS flared and residents vented their frustration at the lack of municipal support on the Bluff at the first meeting of the Bluff Alliance on Thursday, 26 February.

The newly-formed Bluff Alliance is the brainchild of former Bluff Ratepayers Association chairman, Ivor Aylward and ward 66 councillor, Duncan Du Bois. “We hope to set up a network on the Bluff, through which we can present an united front against lawbreakers, the municipality and police and bring about the change we believe is needed in our community,” said Aylward.

With about 40 people in attendance, the mood quickly turned to anger when Aylward listed his matters of concern and asked the assembly how they felt about municipal service in the area. Many in the crowd agreed that much needed to be done to improve the quality of service to the community.

Issues raised included the slum lords and housing problems in Fynnlands, prostitution, the lack of follow-up with the proposed beach upgrades, the Donnelly Road housing problem, the failure of the war room, illegal taxi ranks, lack of maintenance, illegal businesses, broken weirs, safety and lack of bylaw enforcement.

Residents questioned what could be done to turn the tide, after years of what they called an apathetic response from those responsible. Suggestions of marching against the municipality and withholding rates were greeted with much fervour.

“This type of reaction is a good start – it shows people want things to improve. What we need now is for more people in the community to become involved. With the support of hundreds of households, we will be able to make our voices heard,” said Aylward.

Sceptical of the success rate by withholding rates and marching, Du Bois suggested a memorandum be written up, which can be presented to the proper authorities for a call to action. “I suggest the main focus be on crime and the enforcement of bylaws. This is something that connects many important concerns together,” said Du Bois.