As a ward councillor, the safety and well-being of residents is a massive concern and priority, that is why the ward councillors in the Northsider area have submitted a short message to their residents.
All of the councillors shared a general statement asking people to be calm and urging their residents to adhere to the protocols during the lockdown. Each individual councillor had this to say:
The Ward 89 councillor, Amelia Bester, expressed her initial frustration with the slow pace at which protocols were announced, but has said that she is relieved that so much information is now available. She has posted all notices on her ward-based WhatsApp groups and Facebook page, and she urges residents to read them thoroughly.
Amelia went on to say that the City has ensured continued service delivery, but there is an expectation that it may be slower than usual, so residents are asked to continue logging their queries with the City and its entities by visiting https://www.joburg.org.za.
Amelia said, with pride, that all disconnected services must be reconnected, and no interest would be charged for arrears on water and power bills during this time.
To finish off her statement, Amelia urged the public to be aware of domestic violence, and pleaded with victims or anyone who is aware of such issues, to report them immediately. Amelia reiterated the importance of thinking of those who aren’t as lucky as we are and asked everyone to abide by the regulations in place. “Residents are advised to notify their ward councillor of desperate families and displaced people as we have access to aid within the Region. Food parcels will be made available and shelters are being set up. As long as we abide by the regulations, lockdown will run smoothly. Transgressors will face the might of the law.”
Ward 85 councillor Sonja Meyer added to these sentiments and said that she understood how stressful this time could be. it is such a critical time which can have many consequences that we don’t like, but it is important to cooperate. Sonja said instead of focusing on the negative, she hoped her residents would cherish this family time and stay safe. She will be available through WhatsApp and phone calls on 083 988 4279, should her residents have any questions during this time.
Leah Knott, councillor for Ward 97 said that self-discipline is the solution to tackling the virus, which is why the protocols should be strictly adhered to. “I know residents are anxious, but all councillors are working hard behind the scenes to ensure that we are able to assist residents with their queries.”
Leah added that even though the councillors are trying their best to respond speedily, the announcements are being made on national level, so as local councillors they also only receive the information once it has been officially gazetted, which is why she urged patience.
Leah, like the other councillors pressed the importance of not spreading fake news in order to help everyone remain calm. “I wish all residents well; look after yourselves and your family during this time. I would also like to express the deepest appreciation for all essential-service staff operating during this time,” Leah concluded.
David Brand, councillor for Ward 126, kept his sentiments short and to the point, urging his residents to be practical and sensible by being aware of false information and practicing social distancing. “If you can, stay with loved ones during this time.”
