Honeydew Residents Association hold first meeting of the year to plot productive course for 2023
Crime, electricity and the environment the key talking points on the agenda.
Collective efforts that never cease gain unstoppable momentum.
The Honeydew Residents Association(HRA) hosted their first public meeting of 2023 at 39 Pierre Road, January 19. At least 40 residents were in attendance with the aim of the discuss perceived problems in the area as well as presenting a chance for role players to update residents on the progress of concerns raised in the latter half of 2022.
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The picturesque valleys and wide open fields are part of the areas allure placing environmental issues at the forefront of any discussions. Residents have noted an overgrowth of an invasive alien plant species called ‘Pom-poms’. A mass project has been mentioned to clear the overgrowth but as they cover large expanses, residents were advised to do their best to remove the plants from the root.
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The HRA meeting was held a few hours after a meeting at Two Rivers Country Estate that addressed the broken sewer pipe which was pouring raw sewage into the river that runs through the valley. HRA vice-chairperson, Shirley Bosman commented on the outcomes of the river meeting, saying, “It is bittersweet really. Cypress and Walnut Road residents will have to continue living the stench of the river on their river front homes. However, Two Rivers are excited that at least their side will now get repaired.”
The nationwide electricity crisis is no less prevalent on the dark and isolated streets in the HRA area. The ‘Power Rangers’ are a group of roughly 40 residents who patrol the area nightly and it was noted they have made a tremendous impact in reducing cable theft in their eight months of operating. It was stressed that more numbers were needed as patrollers were being stretched too thin.
The Honeydew Community Police Forum assist the Power Rangers, with the Sector 3 Chairperson urged resident to be their eyes and ears.
“If somebody is seen walking with a bag containing cables, they can be arrested. It is a crime being in possession of state-owned property which could lead to 15 years imprisonment,” said Anthony Beer.
The Lutz-Dalkeith upgrade project aims to alleviate the strain on the electrical infrastructure and Ward 97 committee member, Rowan Walkley, stated that the project was proceeding as planned.
On the crime front, Miguel Boaventure from EC Security reported no serious crime other than an alleged attempted stabbing incident between two waste pickers where a large knife was confiscated after an argument between the two men. Additionally, incidents of theft from properties were reported with the goods either being recovered or security companies leading police to Plot 323, known as Ikemeleng, a social housing facility that has reportedly swelled since being opened in 2020.
The ever-increasing work of the HRA is aimed at building a strong network that traverses the distances in spatial living that is unique to their corner of Honeydew. Eager for a 2023 filled with participation, Shirley showed her gratitude, concluding, “Thank you to one and all for attending the first HRA meeting of the year. The turnout was immensely welcoming. Thank you to honeydew residents, let’s grow in strength and in numbers.”
