Endumeni by-laws hope to beef up law and order

After years of complaints about anti-social activities that impact on especially residential areas, Endumeni Municipality has finally announced the implementation of a new set of by-laws which they say will ‘enhance governance and community welfare’.

Residents have been fuming over ‘park parties’ throughout the municipal area, where hundreds gather to drink alcohol and play loud music, leaving behind heaps of litter. Other issues that have raised collective hackles are the lack of control of vacant and/ or neglected properties (which have become hideouts for criminals) and the failure to control drinking and urinating in public. In a statement, the municipality said the by-laws will help to promote good governance and that the by-laws were developed in consultation with various stakeholders and legal experts.

“These laws reflect our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive and sustainable municipality. The newly-enacted by-laws cover a wide range of critical areas, addressing key aspects of community life and governance.

“They have been specifically designed to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by residents, businesses and public institutions within the municipal area. The by-laws aim to provide clear guidelines and regulations that will foster harmony, promote responsible behaviour, and protect the rights and interests of all members of our community. Some of the key highlights of the new by-laws include:

Environmental protection: The by-laws outline stringent measures to safeguard the environment, including guidelines for waste management, pollution control and sustainable development practices. These provisions aim to preserve the area’s natural resources and ensure a clean and healthy environment for present and future generations.

Public safety and order: The safety and well-being of residents is of paramount importance. The by-laws introduce measures to enhance public safety such as regulations on noise control, traffic management and the prevention of public disturbances. These provisions empower law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order.

Urban planning and development: To ensure orderly and sustainable growth, the by-laws establish comprehensive guidelines for urban planning and development. These laws focus on responsible land use, building regulations and zoning requirements, promoting a harmonious blend of residential, commercial and public spaces.

Community engagement: The by-laws encourage active citizen participation in municipal affairs. They outline mechanisms for public consultation, community engagement and feedback, empowering residents to contribute to decision-making processes and play a meaningful role in shaping the municipality’s future.

Business regulations: Recognising the crucial role of businesses in driving economic growth, the by-laws provide a framework for fair and ethical business practices. The new laws address licensing, permits and compliance requirements, creating a environment conducive for entrepreneurship while safeguarding consumer rights.

“We express our gratitude to community members, civil society organisations, businesses and government agencies for their valuable contributions to this process,” the statement said. “We are confident that these new by-laws will contribute to the overall well-being and prosperity of the municipality. They represent a significant step forward in our commitment to transparent, accountable and responsible governance. We encourage all residents, businesses and organisations to familiarise themselves with the by-laws and comply with their provisions. We are committed to serving our community and providing an environment that nurtures growth, opportunity and social harmony. “We believe that the implementation of these by-laws will further strengthen our municipality’s foundation and create a brighter future for all.”

For more info and to access the complete set of by-laws, visit the municipality website at https://endumeni.gov.za/