Public service delivery continues – Fowler

As the City of Johannesburg Council remains hung, City manager Trevor Fowler has assured residents that service delivery will not be compromised, citing that the absence of a clear majority by any party in Johannesburg does not mean a halt in public services.

Fowler said the provision of services continues without interruption. “As political leaders negotiate the formation of a new municipal government, work is being done, services are delivered and the important task of restoring our people’s dignity through world-class services continues apace.”

On 11 August, the City hosted a mock council meeting with the 270 councillor elects. The meeting was held to mainly brief new councillors on council proceedings and to make them understand procedures and what is expected of them when the inaugural sitting eventually takes place on 22 August.

Fowler, who will be the presiding officer, noted that part of the agenda on 22 August will be the swearing in of all 270 councillors, the election of Speaker of Council, Executive Mayor and Chief Whip of Council. South Gauteng High Court Judge President Dunstan Mlambo or his deputy will administer oaths to councillors.

He added that the Independent Electoral Commission will preside over the election of office bearers on the first sitting. Once the Speaker is elected, he/she will then take over the running of the meeting as councillors elect the Mayor.

Fowler said the second Council meeting, planned for September 8, will announce Mayoral portfolio committees, members of the Mayoral Committee, the election of chairpersons of committees, including Chair of Chairs, and approval of members of various Section 79 committees.

Councillor elects were also briefed on their declaration and disclosure of interests.