Ward 104 councillor, Michael Wood has been working with residents and the Johannesburg City Council for five years and has overseen the development and growth of his ward.
Wood has facilitated numerous projects, including the installation of streetlights in Cumberland Road, water upgrades in Malanshof and Fontainebleau, as well as road resurfacing in and around Ward 104.
Before becoming a councillor, Wood was involved in the motor industry, working as an export manager for Nissan. After going into early retirement, he became councillor of Ward 104.
When asked about his responsibilities as councillor of Ward 104, Wood responded, “I am the conduit between the City of Johannesburg and the local residents’ associations, civic organisations and other non-governmental organisations. I pride myself on being involved in the community. I try to give as much feedback and information to the residents of Ward 104 as possible.”
Wood added that he communicates through newsletters, e-mails and personal meetings to keep his ward informed about current issues and projects.
Wood is very enthusiastic about his role in the community and despite daily challenges, his work makes him happy.
“Service delivery in our city is a major issue. Problems never get resolved and get put on the back burner. Residents in my area pay a lot of money for rates and taxes, but they aren’t receiving a lot of bang for their buck. I can try to facilitate service delivery, but once I have escalated issues, there is little else I can do. Understandably this causes great frustration for myself as well as the residents of Ward 104.”
Wood added that he has met some incredible people on the job and even though it can get frustrating, he wouldn’t be a councillor if he didn’t enjoy the work.
Wood is responsible for the following areas: Beverley Gardens, Bromhof Ext 2, Bryanbrink, Bryanston Ext 18, Cowdray Park Ext 1, Daniel Brink Park, Douglasdale Ext 52 and 9, Epsom Downs, Ferndale and extensions, Malanshof and extensions, Meadowhurst, Olivedale Ext 2 and 8, Preagville, Strijdompark and Vandia Grove Ext 1 and 2.
Details: 082 853 2174; mikewo@mweb.co.za
