Note to Broadcasters: Please find linked soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Cllr Werner van Onselen.
The DA in the JB Marks Local Municipality conducted an oversight inspection of the municipality’s swimming pools, but found that the facilities have been neglected to the extent where there is no evidence of the repairs brought last year due to our sustained pressure. We found the water green with algae and dirty. See image here and video here.
It is evident that the municipality failed to maintain the swimming pools and that the water has not been treated to ensure that it is clean and safe for recreational purposes during the festive period.
The DA wants the JB Marks Local Municipality to immediately implement an adequate maintenance plan to clean the pools and ensure adequate chemical supplies for regular maintenance so that residents can access the facilities during the holiday season.
The Potchefstroom Dam swimming pool will be hosting galas and other swimming competitions for the next few months and requires urgent maintenance.
We have written to the Municipal Manager, Kgomotso Kumbe, and the Executive Mayor, Cllr Gaba Ka Qhele, to bring the necessary repairs and to ensure that chemical treatments are purchased and delivered to the swimming pools as soon as possible. See letters here and here.
The neglect of this public asset is indicative of the ANC’s failed governance and stands in stark contrast with the DA-governed Midvaal Local Municipality’s swimming pool where regular maintenance and chemical treatments are done. Midvaal residents enjoy the public pool during the hot summer months in comfort, on lush green lawns and adequate shade. The DA can do the same in JB Marks if residents ensure that they are correctly registered to vote DA.
On Saturday and Sunday, 18 and 19 November 2023, the IEC will host its Registration Weekend and will be at all voting stations to allow residents to register, reregister or confirm their registration status.
Registering to vote is the first step towards voting for improved service delivery and accountable governance under a DA-led government.