Newly appointed Executive Mayor of the West Rand District Municipality (WRDM) wants things to run efficiently and effectively for residents of the District.
In an exclusive interview with the Herald, Councillor Hullet Hild, 46, who hails from Toekomsrus in Rand West City, said at the top of his priority list is improving the general safety of residents of the West Rand; upgrading the disaster and emergency services, and strengthening the local economy. He’s committed to intervening in these matters with urgency.
Another aspect the Mayor was gravely concerned about was the infrastructural integrity of the WRDM building – which he deemed to be falling apart.
“Especially broken skylights, leaking roofs, and worst of all the building has no ventilation,” he said.
He added that fixing this important ventilation system is of paramount importance, taking into account that we’re living in a Covid-19 pandemic, therefore, no personnel should be subjected to such conditions.
As he takes office, Hild said he wants to secure and attract new investors in the District, adding that for many years, investments to grow the economy on the West Rand had been neglected.
“A safe business environment will be a priority, and fraud and corruption prevention will also take precedence,” the Mayor added.
In few weeks’ time, he together with Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs) will reveal more specifics about these plans.
“I must admit I am truly excited about the future of the West Rand District.”
Hild said he was raised in an era when his generation was exposed to politics, and his day to day life involved political discussions around dinner, some of which were done in secrecy.
He further explained that his dedication to his political career helped him to rise through the ranks.
Hild holds various qualifications in Human Resource Management.
“I joined the Military, specifically the SA Navy in 1994 and left the service after 21 years of dedicated service to the nation. I have various Military and United Nations qualifications.
“I am also the proud recipient of Two Military and Two United Nations Honours and Awards, and In 2018 I successfully completed the prestigious Political Development Programme of the Democratic Alliance.”
In his message to the residents of the District, Hild said: “We must be brutally honest with ourselves and acknowledge the fact that we need to make the District a success. We must take ownership of it!”
The Mayor also warned of criminal syndicates targeting electricity cables, some of whom are are living in the District. He said residents should help by reporting any criminal activity to the police.
“The sad and heartbreaking issue of gender-based violence must stop, and we must intervene and do everything possible to work with relevant organisations or authorities to put an end to this phenomenon.
“Let’s take part in Council processes and attend public participation meetings, and avail ourselves to sharing experiences and professional services on platforms such as Ward Committees. We can make it work!” Hild said.
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