Ward 64 councillor commends community unity
Ward 64 councillor, Gavin Hegter encouraged that it was important to note the positives that came out of a big negative.
THE shock that rocked ward 64 in last month’s unrest has settled.
This is word from councillor, Gavin Hegter who admitted that the last few weeks have been stressful and strenuous for many.
“The impact of the looting on the local economy is a great concern. The unfortunate reality is that the smaller businesses will be taking the brunt of everything. Sadly many businesses in our local mall have not re-opened. Other businesses around the area also won’t re-open,” he said.
Spokesperson of Montclair Mall Cassandra Hailstone, confirmed that Pick n Pay and Pick n Pay Liquor are now opened and trading from 08:00 to 17:00 daily. “Other shops are yet to give us feedback as to when they will open for trade,” she said.
Hegter encouraged that it was important to note the positives that came out of a big negative. “It was great how the community came together and because of their efforts, we were able to get Shoprite Montclair opened very quickly. I was so moved by how a community united across all barriers and against labels that divide us. This has carried over and has strengthened our community forums where we have more residents supporting these sectors and community members also taking the initiative to do patrols, doing their part to look after the community.
“The birth of the Seeds for Change Montwood Park group is just another example of how the community is working together to help those most affected and hardest hit.”
He noted that there is still fear and unease within the community. “Some are finding it hard to comprehend that the storm is over. There is still the spread of fake news, talks of further protest action and political threats going around on social media which adds to people’s paranoia. It is important to stay alert but without creating fear.
“My concern moving forward is that these groups formed will fizzle out as the momentum dies down. Although the chaos is over, we still have crime and it would be amazing if the community remained united to fight that. This is what we have to focus on – the community standing together to address the general crime in the area. Criminals don’t like communal unity and my hope is that we can keep that going as well as maintain the projects that arose from the ashes.”
In terms of the service delivery backlog from the period of the looting, Hegter confirmed that things are back on track although common issues such as shortages of resources, plumbers, refuse trucks etc. remain. “Projects that were in the pipeline have been further delayed but I am with the various departments to get them on board and get the ball rolling as soon as the means allow.”
He encourages residents to continue reporting faults and to contact him when issues need to be escalated further. To get in touch with him contact, Gavin Hegter on 072 821 1917.
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