MMC Dan Bovu visits Westside
Complaints and queries regarding the flats were all addressed by the MMC.
He was accompanied by residents of Westbury, Members of the South African Progressive Civic Union, Joshco officials and housing department officials.
The aim of the visit was to do a thorough site inspection on the current condition of the flats.
Residents such as Ivan Geldart and Leonette Davids from Waterval raised their concerns.
“We have been having a major sewage problem for more than five years.
“People keep on coming here to examine but then nothing happens,” said Geldart.
SAPCO brought up an issue of illegal tenants.
According to Stephen Katz of the organisation, illegal occupants occupy these flats and use them as lolly lounges.
“We have been having this problem for so long and it’s been ignored from all sides of government,” said Katz.
Bovu then explained to the people a way forward.
“Well one main issue that the people have is ownership of these facilities.
“In order for us to be able to work on the condition of the flats it has to remain government property.
“If ownership is given to the tenants then the flats become their responsibility,” said Bovu.
A follow up meeting with residents, SAPCO members and Department of Housing will be held at the Braamfontein Metropolitan Centre.
Dates will be given to public.
