Ward 71 residents invited to apply to be PSC members on local construction project

In November 2019, the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) and the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO) excitedly launched the construction of the first social housing in Princess.

The 333 unit housing complex was initially set to be completed by September 2020, but with all the problems that last year presented, the completion date has since been moved to mid-2022. This year, JOSHCO is hoping to continue the construction while working closely with local community members and as such, the company has invited Ward 71 residents to apply to be a part of the Project Steering Committee (PSC) for the project.

Ward 71 councillor, René Benjamin extended the call to any interested residents, civil society organisations, and residents associations who would be willing to join the PSC and be capable of fulfilling the responsibilities effectively. The PSC will play an oversight function and promote public participation during all stages of the project, including the planning stage, construction phase, and post-construction phase.

Successful applicants will be responsible for providing feedback to relevant stakeholders, communicating with the community on all phases of the project, and dealing with community grievances in relation to the project. Councillor Benjamin stated that the PSC would remain in function until the units are completed and handed over to qualifying residents.

Here is what you need to know:
• PSC members are required to be residents of Ward 71
• PSC members are required to attend all meetings (usually not more than once per month, but at the inception of the PSC there may be more)
• The PSC will be chaired by the Ward councillor
• Anyone who is currently on the database for consideration of work on the project will not be considered for PSC participation
• PSC membership is strictly voluntary and no payment or stipend will be extended to members
• JOSHCO will nominate two representatives; one to act as the Secretariat on behalf of JOSHCO and assist in the coordination of monthly meetings, and another (who will be a JOSHCO employee) to assist with providing relevant technical project process
• ENZA Construction (the appointed contractor) will also nominate a representative

The deadline for all applications is Friday, 5 February at 12 midday. Submissions can be made by completing relevant documentation which is collectable from the security gate at the JOSHCO project on Harry Road in Princess. Alternatively, Maki Thellane, the JOSHCO Project Community Participation and Stakeholders Consultant, can be contacted on 082 575 7239 for digital application forms and further information. Councillor Benjamin can also be contacted on 073 734 0061.

Completed forms can be dropped off and placed in the box which will be located at the JOSHCO project on Harry Road. Photos of the completed forms can also be sent via WhatsApp to 079 524 0283. Alternatively, completed forms can be dropped off at the Region C Civic Centre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Road, Florida Park. 

Successful applicants will be contacted by close of business on Friday, 5 February and further details will be shared regarding the first PSC meeting which is scheduled for 8 February.