The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (DOCRRA) saw a very positive turnout when more than 60 people attended their AGM last week.
This was DOCRRA’s 18th year representing ratepayers on the Dolphin Coast, covering wards four, six, 20, 21 and 22.
Chairman Ken Lever stressed that in order to be effective, DOCRRA needed willing, paid-up members.
“We are the only organisation recognised by the Ilembe municipality to represent ratepayers and we are completely non-political,” said Lever.
Also read: KDM under fire for irregular spending
This year’s AGM was a notable improvement on the dismal turnout from last year, suggesting that Lever and his team are on the right track towards reinvigorating the once ailing organisation.
Lever said one of the big issues DOCRRA was looking to tackle was the traffic and roads nightmare – especially on the Salt Rock road.
“The road surfaces are falling apart, traffic is completely overwhelming the roads and – importantly – there is no room for pedestrians to walk on the side of the road.
“These are people’s lives and they are being put at risk.”
Another important issue they are looking to iron out is the fiasco at KDM’s planning department which has seen accusations fly between developers and the municipality regarding missing plans, incomplete applications and a whole host of other issues which Lever said was driving investment away from the Dolphin Coast.
“We intend to engage positively – but firmly – with the planning department. At the moment there are just too many ‘holes’ and much confusion reigning regarding bylaws and the like.”
Explaining how DOCRRA can help the community, Lever remembered how the organisation was one of the key role-players in having the pay-parking system scrapped.
“If you live in a gated estate and you think you do not need DOCRRA – think again.
“Think about the roads you have to use, electricity supply, storm drains and so on”
Lever also warned that while nothing had been confirmed as yet, a rates increase of between 7-10% was looming on the horizon. Another undertaking close to Lever’s heart is the establishment of a “brains trust” of experts for DOCRRA to call on.
“I want to build a pool of advisers on everything from civil engineering and town planning, to legal and medical issues. If DOCRRA can call on these experts, we can be much more effective in carrying out our mandate to represent the ratepayers.”
To find out more about DOCRRA, or if you are keen in becoming a member, send an email to admin@docrra.co.za or visit their website www.docrra.co.za and follow the easy steps to sign up online.
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