Areas: New Market, General Alberts, Meyersdal, Mayberry Park, Bassonia Rock and Alrode.
Email: michael@phoenixrising.co.za
Vision for the ward:
“My vision for the ward is simple; to have a clean, safe and secure area that attracts good investment in the formal sector and stimulates markets in the property sector. A ward that the community is happy and proud to live and raise their families in. A ward where businesses grow and operate free from fear of disruptions, poor infrastructure and free from crime. My vision is that Ward 94 becomes the most desirable area to live, work and play.”
Changes I would like to see happen:
“I would like to see a huge change in the accountability of the Metro. Service delivery is at a low with numerous potholes, faulty street lights sewer leaks and rampant crime (to name a few) which is negatively impacting on the community and business as a whole. I would like to see proper planning put into place to address these issues, better by-law enforcement, especially around illegal dumping and greater law enforcement in regard to crime. Ultimately, I would like to see a change in government so that I may have a greater opportunity to assist in rectifying the problems facing our community through a clean, well-run and accountable government as is evident in the Western Cape.”
What will I use the money allocated to my ward on:
“The Metro no longer gives the councillor a community-based project fund (CBP); they are now running the Lunghile Mtshali community development project, which is meant to address issues such as road painting and cleaning of illegal dumping. This is the first time this is being done, and I’ll wait to see if the impact is positive. However, I will continue to engage with business with the view to assist with the upgrading of our areas and assisting the most sensitive community members.”
My career as a councillor:
“I came into to politics with bright eyes and a bushy tail, set to change the world through a idealistic view of what can be done. So far it has been an education in bureaucracy and patience. The wheels of change turn slow and government does not work like a corporate (at all). However, three years down the line I am still as active and positive over the prospect of change and development in our country. I am honoured to be of service to my community, and commit myself to ensuring that they get the services that they deserve. It isn’t always easy, but through constant pressure and tireless service, I believe that I can make a difference. So I may now be bright-tailed and bushy-eyed, but I am still 100 per cent committed to the cause of my party, my country and my community.”
