Ward 87 councillor Bridget Steer’s job is to know everything that happens in her designated areas, like Greenside, Westcliff and Parkview.
In an interview with the Rosebank Killarney Gazette, Steer said her challenge at the moment was an issue of displaced people, who do not want to move into shelters. “A lot of homeless people do not want to stay in shelters. We have even sent social workers but they refuse because they know there are a lot of rules at the shelters. I need to know where they are and check if they need my help.”
Earlier this year, people were given notice about the new property valuations that went through on 1 July. Steer said this is another challenge for her as there have been over 50 000 objections.
“Obviously, it will take the City some time to go through all the objections and evaluate them. I have seen a lot of residents whose bills’ rates have increased.
“There is an increase in water and electricity. I think we have to charge for those things so we can manage the City because revenue comes from rates and with the increase in fuel prices and value-added tax, everyone is feeling it.”
Steer said she has had calls from residents asking her what the difference has been in Johannesburg since the Democratic Alliance has been in power for the last two years. “I think the residents have to understand that it will take a lot longer than two years to catch up and upgrade the infrastructure. I address infrastructure issues with the responsible departments.”
She added that they have doubled the maintenance budget from what the African National Congress used to spend on infrastructure.
Steer also mentioned that she has a thick skin and that she has always been part of a residents association, even before her appointment as ward councillor in 2016. “I have had resident calling me while crying because they have a problem and I understand they just need to be listened to. So my job is to hear what the concerns are, to explain the process to residents and manage their expectations.”
Are you based in on the areas that fall under Ward 87? Let us know what you think on koketsor@caxton.co.za.
Related articles:
Find your ward councillor to report service delivery problems
