Catching up on 2017 with Ward 99 councillor
JOBURG – Ward 99 councillor talks of how she will take lessons learned in 2017 with her for her entire life.
This year was filled with ups and downs for Ward 99 councillor, Nicole van Dyk who described it as being incredibly educational.
Van Dyk said her biggest struggle was dealing with what she said were many City of Johannesburg employees who would like to see the new administration fail.
“In some instances, it has become harder to work with people this year than it has been in previous years. It’s sad to see that people still put their own selfish needs ahead of the people of South Africa. Thankfully we have a mayor who stands rock-solid in his fight against corruption,” Van Dyk said.
She explained that R80-million worth of electrical equipment was stolen from City Power, and later internal investigations uncovered fraud and corruption of up to R10 billion.
“Eighty-one employees were suspended, 12 resigned and seven were dismissed. The fight will keep going and so will we. Ward councillors in Region B stand firmly committed to service delivery above all else,” Van Wyk said proudly.
Other than working with people who seemingly want to see the new administration go under, Van Dyk explained how difficult communication has been as a ward councillor.
“This was the task I found to be most daunting, but through a lot of hard work, being actively involved with residents’ associations, taking the time to speak to people every day – whether on social media or on the streets – I have found a great niche and appreciation from my communities.”
Van Dyk maintains that informed residents are happy residents and when residents are heard, they become allies. “I have watched communities come together beautifully over the last year to make their suburbs better,” she said.
One of her highlights is the Are Sebetseng clean-up that is held at the end of each month.
“We began in Emma Park with just a few residents, the mayor and the displaced people who often make use of the park.”
She wishes for a safe and peaceful December for all her residents.
“May the festive season bring much happiness and the New Year bring fresh attitudes and successful days,” she said.
Van Dyk hopes that next year will bring about more kindness and that every resident across the city takes an active role in their communities.
“I hope that I can give residents the tools to uplift their communities with parks that are safe and constantly utilised, roads that are safe, and substations that are well looked after and secured,” she said.
ALSO READ: Councillor thanks Ratepayers Associations for their support
