Good riddance 2021, welcome 2022

AS reflected in our Christmas message, 2021 certainly didn’t start on a high note and by all indications (at the time) it was set to end in much the same way.

ALSO READ: Back off, anti-Beetge brigade 

Not only did the new Covid-19 strain decide to take a vacation that resulted in a free for all just in time to travel for the holidays, but it was possibly one of the least disruptive seasons we have experienced in over a decade.

Certainly, there will be those who continue to see the glass half empty by using anomalies as an example of chaos, but careful planning and aligning both the legislated and mandated authorities with a committed private sector, resulted in what was arguably the best disciplined and organised enforcement and service delivery exercises that we’ve had the pleasure of being a part of.

With exception of an unfortunate drowning that occurred well after beach closing was announced and lifeguards had departed, all first responders, as well as law enforcement records, reflect an exceptional decline both in incidents and overall crime over the holiday period.

This can be attributed to an increased effort to confiscate alcohol at beaches and adjacent areas, a combined effort in clearing beach areas after closure, increased community patrols that included both the private security industry and community members and marked discipline from the side of the community.

Certainly, there were individuals who did not always consider their neighbours, but this fortunately paled in comparison to previous years. Similarly, service delivery complaints, as we remained largely unaffected by burst water pipes, faulty pump stations, sewage blockages or dreaded power outages due to attendance and commitment solicited from departments in our planning meetings.
Clean-up challenges due to a shortage of refuse bags were quickly rectified by securing additional supply from a third party source resulting in the 22:00 “all clean” target being achieved virtually without exception.

Faulty street lights were and remain one of the bigger challenges which the municipality will have to address and the no care attitude, lack of enthusiasm or failing to report for expected duty by individuals certainly cast a shadow over the vast majority who were committed to making this a season to remember for the right reasons.

New Year’s Eve was certainly a highlight as a disciplined and extremely diverse crowd gathered at the main beach to welcome the arrival of 2022 under the watchful eye of a well prepared enforcement contingent.

Given the number of compliments, that far outnumbered the complaints, we wish to thank everyone who contributed to making this a season to remember, again for the right reasons, and we trust that the positive approachand tolerance will prevail as we continue into 2022.

DID YOU KNOW?

Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics. To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 694 6047.

The South Coast Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram – why not join us there? Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.

(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)