What was supposed to be an official handover from City Power contractors to the residents of Ward 83 quickly turned into a sidewalk argument about where the water will go.
After being caught illegally dumping waste from the site at Wilro Park substation on the corner of Azalea Avenue and Graphite Road, City Power contractors undertook to fix their mess and start developing what would become Azalea Park. Councillor Suzanne Clarke, members of her ward committee and residents gathered at the future park on Thursday morning (17 September) to see what they’ve accomplished to date.
One upset resident threw a spanner in the wheels when he showed up complaining about how water will be drained from the park. The way the land is leveled, according to him, will mean water will run down Graphite Road and flood adjacent houses if rainfall is heavy. While it was an illegal dumping site, the water pooled on the grounds and didn’t affect surrounding properties.
Clarke and Joe Els, one of the contractors, discussed many possibilities with the unsatisfied resident. A course of action was decided upon. Clarke called on her ward inspector to log a call to have JRA clear drains on Graphite Road in order for the water to be drained, should there be heavy rainfall.
“It might be necessary to get Joburg Water involved if the water becomes a serious concern,” Clarke said.
Another resident was worried that the trees that were just planted will grow and provide hiding place to criminals. Els was very accommodating, saying that he’ll discuss the possibility of putting lights up around the park with City Power. He will also initiate an environmental survey to ensure their plans to develop a park is safe.
Clarke blames the last-minute interference with the ward’s plans on poor attendance at public meetings she holds.
“We won’t decide anything without public participation, but residents need to start realising that this is done through public meetings — even if only two people show up and participate, they have the power to decide on behalf of the entire community.”
Her next public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday 30 September at NG Church Roodekrans on Azalea Avenue from 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend. Ward 83 councillor Suzanne Clarke helps residents in Roodekrans, Wilro Park, Helderkruin, Princess Crossing and Breaunanda and can be reached on 072 508 9947.
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