Errol Goetsch (email)
This is a long thank you letter for 18 years of excellent service capped by a miracle.
I moved to Roodepoort in 1996 and run a non-profit [organisation] here. This is normally how complaints start, but the City’s patience, courtesy, kindness and service delivery have been incredible.
Every month for 18 years, Joburg Water, City Power and the Accounts Department got it right: they delivered in full and billed correctly. As one of the 900 000 accounts to manage, thank you.
I’ve been battling and fell behind on my rates and taxes. The City gave me three years of grace to get my affairs in order and (rightly) disconnected its services at the end of 2013. In March, I enrolled in the (wonderful) Expanded Social Package programme, getting a 100% rebate. When I could show that I needed an electrical certificate to sell the property and pay my debts before the bank foreclosed, a miracle happened.
The staff at Roodepoort Civic Centre worked fast. The Roodepoort Municipality’s Operations Manager gave good advice. Ward 83 Councillor Suzanne Clarke responded immediately. Finally, Deputy Director Shaun Govender got the lights and water reconnected the very next day. Thank you thank you.
My advice? If you’re a Roodepoort/Johannesburg rate payer, appreciate those 99+ out of 100 times when you have water and lights. If you fall behind, contact the Accounts Department quickly. If you’re struggling, ask your councillor about the ESP programme. If you’re voting, vote for quality.
In conclusion, I have lived in London and South Africa’s Big 5 cities, travelled Africa, Europe and America. I am truly grateful to live, drive and work in this warm and beautiful world-class city.
