Rundle gives lockdown rundown
"Most of the community members I've seen while inspecting the ward had masks on and were practicing social distancing."
Ward 19 Clr Bill Rundle commended the residents of Edenvale for largely obeying the regulations put in place by the government during the lockdown.
During level five of the lockdown, no major lockdown contraventions were brought to Rundle’s attention.
“Most of the community members I’ve seen while inspecting the ward had masks on and were practising social distancing.”
“Once we entered level four and exercising was allowed, community members to hit the streets. I think a lot of people needed to get out of their homes.”
Rundle said overall residents were responsible.
“It is clear that the community is working together and also keeping an eye on one another.”
Despite Edenvale and Ward 19 residents obeying regulations, Rundle raised concerns about the phasing of learners to school and the impact the virus had on local businesses.
In Rundle’s opinion, it is a large risk to allow learners to go back to school at this point.
He believes by allowing learners back to school the infection rate could increase.
According to Rundle, who is also the vice-president of the Edenvale Chamber of Commerce, there are approximately 2500 businesses in the greater Edenvale area.
He explained that most of the businesses, if not all, were affected by the level five lockdown.
“Majority of the businesses are small businesses, sole proprietors run by one or two people and were forced to shut down.
“However, the decrease to level four has seen more businesses reopen. Residents of Edenvale are resilient and business should bounce back,” said Rundle.
Rundle said although there are still sewerage and water leaks and potholes remain unrepaired, the City of Ekurhuleni is preparing its staff to return to work.
“The City has started a testing and screening process of department staff which need to work during level four.”
Rundle appealed to the community to continue obeying the regulations in order for the levels to decrease.
“We need to revive the economy, and to do that community members need to earn salaries. When people earn their salaries, they will not be reliant on the government.”
