Cleaning up the town
Springs has a new Customer Care Area Manager who has a vision of bringing Springs back to its former glory.
Ace Phiri took over the position of Area Manager at the beginning of October and since then, has implemented some new and interesting ways to increase productivity in the Metro in order to get Metro-related problems sorted out faster and more efficiently.
“Ekurhuleni Municipal Municipality has already spent R4.5 million in assisting to restore dilapidated buildings in Springs CBD and in revamping parks and open spaces that were in a bad state. We are committed to improving the general aesthetics of the town and restore dignity to our people,” says Phiri.
Phiri and the Metro team have closed in on traders whose licenses have not been renewed and are trading illegally.
He has made sure he meets with all the departments once every two weeks so as to keep communication open and to brainstorm and take action on how to get the town fixed up.
“For my vision, we are using Springs as a test case and whatever we do in Springs will be translated into other areas of Ekurhuleni.”
They started in Bakerton cleaning up the streets and going into shops that are selling expired products.
“We have started a campaign where once a week I send out my urban marshal. We call the councillor to let them know we are coming into their area and we take before photos and videos. Then we review the footage and get the appropriate department to go in and fix the problem, then we will take after shots of the work done to put together a before and after look.”
DA ward councillor Dean Stone welcomes Phiri’s new approach.
“From a councillor’s point of view, the communication from Mr Phiri is very good. I’m finding it a lot easier to communicate and report my problems. I am impressed so far and I think changes can be made under his leadership.”
Phiri says they want to try and combat the problems such as street lights not working and water leaks before the residents of the town have to report them.
“All the departments are working together as a team and the energy is there. We have been running an employee of the month to help motive our people. I am very passionate about Springs and getting it back to what it used to be so residents can be proud of Springs again.”
Phiri has noted some areas in which residents, business owners and customers and members of the public can assist them such as taking out refuse bags on days the collection in your area takes place.
Keep all refuse bags in your premises until the collection date.
“In terms of illegal outdoor advertising, we appeal to our people to get permission for advertising and to refrain from just putting any form of advertising on pavements,” he says.
The public can report any service lapses or contraventions on 011 999 8470/8719/8992 or email Duduzile.Hlubi@ekurhuleni.gov.za, Nomsa.Mmotomg@ekurhuleni.gov.za, Penny.Kunene@ekurhuleni.gov.za or Ace.Phiri@ekurhuleni.gov.za
