Residents resolve problems themselves
Residents of Observatory, near Bez Park, have taken on the council's responsibility by cleaning the area and fixing a fence, which had proved problematic for residents.
“Three years ago, thieves stole the metal poles and the storm water drain cover at Bez Park and in our property. The three poles were attached to the park fence,” said Mrs Cheryl Reeve, a resident in the area. According to Cheryl, the storm water drain flows rapidly in the rainy season.
“Parts of the fence were stolen, grass started to grow, the homeless found shelter underneath and children played in the drains,” said Mrs Reeve.
She added that dead carcasses found their way into the drain and it had become a new home for everyone’s garbage.
“The council had employed an outside company to do the job. Our problems started when someone started a fire,” said Mrs Reeves.
She said the fire brigade had to be called and half her garden was destroyed. “Luckily the house was not burnt to the ground. Parts of the fence are still not repaired and this increases burglaries, so we had to increase security. It appears to be no-ones problem,” said Mrs Reeve. She said she would like to know what they pay their taxes for.
“Who is responsible for maintaining these facilities? We the tax-payers have fixed their mess,” said Mrs Reeves.
An enquiry was sent to Ms Dudu Lushaba from the City of Johannesburg. She replied, saying she had referred the matter to Ms Jenny Moodley from Johannesburg City Parks.
