Port Elizabeth: MyPE

www.MyPE.co.za: Minutes of the general meeting of the BSSF held on Tuesday, 9th February, 2010, at 12h00 at the Tsitsikamma Conference Centre, Boardwalk Casino Complex, Summerstrand.

1. Welcome:

Chairman, John Preller, welcomed everyone and thanked all for attending the first meeting of 2010.

2. Present: (29)
Humewood CPF: John Preller - JP: (Chairman), John Hayes - JH: (Sector 3), Humewood SAPS: Supt David Samboer - SDS, Insp Mandy Dicker - MD, NMBM Safety & Security: Francois Hay - FH, NMBM Traffic: M.E. Tiso - MT, NMBM Noise Control: Joannie Black - JBL, NMBM Environmental Health: Dirk Steyn - DS, Business Against Crime: Thobeka Festile - TF, Boardwalk Security: Morne Coetzer - MC, ADT Security: Dave Moorhouse - DM, Mandy Abrahams - MA, Atlas Security: Gareth Wilson - GW, Profrent Vehicle Attendants: Mariaan de Beer - MdB, Beachfront Traders (BTA): Johann Gerber - JG, Paul Prince - PP, Courtyard Hotel: Eddie van Zyl - EvZ, Road Lodge PE: Mark Odendaal - MO, Paxton Hotel: Anton Pretorius - AP, NMMU Students: Prof Thoft Soga - TS, Prof Nico Jooste - NJ, NMMU Investigator: Andrea Canestra - ACN, Maranatha Streetworkers: Trudi Basson - TB, Delvenisia Boesak - DBM, Dolphins Leap: Henry Goedhals - HG, Captains Bar: Ed Cowpar - EC, Andrew Cowpar - AC, Councillor Ward 1: Cllr Stanford Slabbert - SS (Minutes), Councillor Ward 2: Cllr Dean Biddulph - DB

3. Apologies: (12)
Humewood SAPS: Supt M. Houwland - MH, NMBM Police: John Best - JB, PSIRA: Dave van Dyk - DD, ADT Security: Vaughn Noack - VN, PEMBBA: Clifford Hanks - CH, Beachfront Lodges: Neill Hodgskin - NH, Willows Resort: Herman Nell - HN, City Lodge: Glen Pappin - GP, NGK De Duin: Johan van Rooyen - JR, Dept Social Development: Elva van Zyl - EZ, NMBM Beach Office: Tilly Viviers - TV, NMB Tourism: Phrosne Phillips - PPT

4. Minutes of the previous meeting held on Tuesday, 8th December, 2009:
Proposed: JH. Seconded: DM. Accepted.

5. Confirmation of role-players: Noted as per list, dated 2nd December.
Insp Mandy Dicker to be added, replacing Insp Anita Human. Supt Houwland to also be added.

6. Noise issues and problems caused by Beachfront night clubs:

6.1 Dolphins Leap clubs - Captains, Gondwana:

SS noted the emails on page 13 of the info pack.
DM noted the latest developments in the area around Captains and EC noted that they have installed sound proofing measures, including noise limiters, to deaden the noise.
Omega security officers patrol the complex and evidently no noise is heard past Nando’s, since the measures were put in place in December.
It was noted that regular SAPS patrols monitor the car-park and some raids have been held.
The centre is not aware of any new complaints since December and JP thanked all concerned.
JP noted concerns regarding people drinking from the boots of their vehicles in car-parks and noted that such incidents must be reported to the SAPS immediately. It was noted that this occurs along the whole beachfront.
DM noted that suspicious activity and “loitering with intent” were major problems.
JP queried if Captains used CCTV and EC noted that only their entrance area was covered. After discussion it was noted that they will consider other camera’s.
DM requested that suspicious car registrations must be handed to the SAPS for checking.
HG noted that only the perimeters and alley ways of the complex were covered, for strategic reasons. Omega record and keep a log of all incidents and their plan can be adjusted. The centre gets a monthly report from Omega and it was agreed that the Omega report for January is to be included in the next info pack.
MD noted that the SAPS cannot always be in the area and they need warnings if it appears that problems might arise. They also need info to be able to plan specific operations.
JP requested alternate contact numbers for when MD is off duty. This will be attended to.
JBL noted that they deal specifically with noise issues inside the building or premises.

6.2 Gypsey Jacks:

No new reports available, so carried over to the next meeting. SS noted that parties in the car-park, and drinking in public, from boots of cars, was common.

6.3 Buzz Bar:

Problems in the car-park appear to be under control. SS noted a few reports of spiked drinks.

6.4 Other areas / Student problems:

Mercado Centre. SS noted that the Tops liquor store is causing major problems. Alcohol is consumed in the car-park and resultant parties in the car-park create noise problems. It was noted that regular early evening SAPS patrols are needed.
TS noted that there should be a database of offenders and the business should control what patrons do outside the premises. He noted that Municipal by-laws must be enforced.
Q-Bar Sports Pub at Mercado Centre: SS noted recent noise complaints and requested that SAPS patrols monitor the situation. SS is to meet with the owner, Andre Kock.
Student Parties: JP noted that noise issues must be dealt with via NMMU disciplinary methods. Names of offenders must be forwarded to NMMU, who must act.
TS agreed and noted the process that is to be followed. They have also met with MD.
TS noted some of the problems experienced in Gomery Road and stated that their NMMU Security cannot act, as they have no jurisdiction. SAPS must attend to complaints in this area.
DB noted ongoing complaints received about Bantry Court, which is also a student venue.
NJ noted that they have a list of accredited accommodation, which meets NMMU minimum requirements, in Humewood and Summerstrand. This list is being finalized and they will meet with Humewood SAPS in about two weeks time.
NJ noted that Bantry Court is full of students and NMMU has an onsite manager. He noted that these noise complaints emanate from one specific complainant, who is over-reacting, and he noted the specifics of the matter. Most of the problems are from young adults outside in the street and he noted that this areas characteristics are changing.
NJ also noted that noise complaints should only be activated after 11pm, and that a balanced approach is needed.
NJ noted the process whereby complaints against accredited establishments will be activated as each student has a signed contract with NMMU. There are rules and regulations and NMMU will act against students who create a problem or contravene their contracts. NMMU will work with all role-players and officials.
NJ noted that they are setting up an off-campus structure, which should be in place by June.
NJ stated that they have a responsibility for establishments on their accredited list, but those who are not on this list, who do not meet NMMU requirements, must face action from the Metro.
NJ noted that young adults have different mannerisms and they will take action if complaints are received regarding accredited establishments. They also have some absent landlords, who have ceded responsibility to the NMMU.
ACN introduced himself as the investigator for NMMU and he requested names of students who might be involved in criminal activity. They have internal processes and he will take statements from any complainant.
SS welcomed the information provided by NJ and ACN and noted that three properties need to be investigated. This info will be forwarded to NJ: 14 Ivana Drive - Possible illegal structures behind the main dwelling; 19 Ivana Drive - about 20 students living on site; 27 Ivana Drive - about 9 students living on site; 6 Wessels Road off Louis Botha Crescent; 20 Louis Botha Cres - about 6 noisy students. Parties, taxi’s late at night, etc.

7. Reports by Task Teams:

7.1 Operational Task Team: JB, SDS.

It was noted that there was no report, and no stats. Full report requested for the next meeting.
SS to query the status of the beachfront CCTV cameras.

7.2 Street Children issues: TB, EZ, MI.

Project to keep a data base of all the street kids. Carried forward.
Meeting of all relevant parties. Carried forward.
It was agreed that reports from the other Task Teams will only been included when there is new information, and that these will be taken off the agenda:
Feeding Schemes: TB, HM, JR, AH.
Compilation of Database: JP, JB, HM, RS, AH, AW. Photographs and data of vagrants.
Involvement of other role-players: MO, FG, CH. Encourage business involvement in BSSF.
Awareness Campaign: DB, TH, BS. Raise awareness of the BSSF.

8. Action plans for the beachfront:

8.1 Status of the SAPS office at the Boardwalk entrance:

MC noted that he had met with Jacques, of Humewood SAPS. It had been quiet, but plans had been revised and the office was now being used again.
NJ reported that there had been several cases along the beachfront of harassment against international students, including a night-time mugging. No stats were available and he is not sure if all these cases had been reported to the SAPS. NJ to confirm if these were reported.
DB noted that a high visibility presence of both SAPS and Metro S&S is needed along the beachfront, especially at night. DB queried what patrols were being done?
SDS noted that beach patrols were from 8am to 4pm, with reduced numbers after 4pm. There were also patrols by Metro S&S.
DB stated that with the forthcoming World Cup, patrols would have to be increased at night, and requested that the relevant Task Team must be revived.
DB noted that we must lobby for increased police patrols, as this is our prime tourist area.
MC noted that he had heard that most Metro S&S personnel were at a training college for the month and that only two staff were on duty until 10pm., primarily for escort duties. It was confirmed that these staff were away until the end of February, and the existing staff had to contend with responses to alarms, crime prevention and assistance to the SAPS.
FH reported that once their staff return, there will be 6 per shift, with three vehicles, covering the entire Metro, including Uitenhage and Dispatch.
MC noted his concern that the beachfront comes alive at night, and the strategic objectives are different. Proper policing is needed, especially after 10pm until 7am, as all crimes become a threat. Metro S&S are spread too thin, and numbers need to be increased.
PP noted that private security personnel are used at the beachfront toilets.
FH stated that these private security personnel are employed by Metro Waste Management, specifically to prevent vandalism at these toilets. Different tasks are performed and they are on a different grading to other security personnel.
SS highlighted a recent incident at Pollok, when a vehicle was burgled at 10am, next to the CCTV, and the guard did nothing. There was also apparently no CCTV footage of the incident.
JP noted the need for the Task Team to be revived and DB noted that all businesses must get together and assist with co-ordinating the private security services along the beachfront.
MC noted that this had been tried before. The problem was that all have to have the same objectives. Business has also helped with cell-phones and vans and we need to assess the effectiveness of these initiatives.
It was also noted that the SAPS Dog Unit has eight staff per shift, but only one vehicle. Six officers sit doing nothing. They should be an effective response unit, but need more vehicles.
EC queried if an SAPS caravan should be stationed at the beachfront hot-spot area. After discussion it was suggested that this be resurrected and parked at Dolphins Leap, where visible policing was needed. It could be used as a base for these patrols. If available, we should find sponsors to fix it and get business to support it. Then there would be no need for a response unit in this immediate area.
JP noted that he and SDS will discuss this with the station management. It had been used in the peak season period and the position could be strategic. Visibility would be increased and a contact number would be imperative. This idea had merit. Agreed.
SDS noted the human resources challenge faced by the station. They need more manpower, but they will investigate this idea and report back.

8.2 Taxi problems at the Boardwalk’s Hobie Beach entrance:

SS noted the ongoing problems and MT confirmed that Traffic are addressing this matter.
It was noted that the challenge is to stop the taxi’s where the offence was committed, and cameras were also used. The taxis also park in bus stops.
MT stated that they are trying their best, but were also short on manpower. It was noted that problem times were 8 to 9am and 12 to 1pm. Camera officials will monitor the area, and MT agreed to have stats at the next meeting. JP will follow up re prosecutions.
MT noted that international students were often stopped and they do not carry their licenses with them, so they might get locked up.
SDS also noted that the SAPS are also addressing this problem.
JH queried the legality of the saloon taxi’s utilising the Hobie car-park at night, as the area was left in a mess and many problems were created in this area. MT to investigate and report back.
MT stated that there is a problem in this area as no taxi rank facility had been provided, and there is a need for taxi’s in this area.

8.3 Cell-phones for SAPS sectors:

JP noted that this initiative was not working well and he will request a full report from the police station management. Evidently the phones were often on voice mail.
SDS stated that the system is now operational again.

8.4 Car Guard issues:

MdB stated that a specific meeting is needed to address all the various issues.
MdB noted that there is a major problem along the entire beachfront and JP noted that the Metro Police will be tasked to address these issues.
It was noted that there are endless problems at Dolphins Leap, with drinking, fights, drugs and muggings. JP noted that he will raise this matter at Exco level.
SS noted that the Metro’s moratorium had been lifted and queried how many arrests and fines had been issued in the past month? FH noted that some arrests had been made, some fines had been issued, and the issue had been resolved. Stats will be given at the next S&S meeting
JP noted this problem had a negative impact on businesses in the area, and requested that both agencies focus on this matter during the next month.
FH noted that they only had two officers on duty for February, and that when the others return from training they will look at this problem.
JP noted that then SAPS have been requested to act and 25 people had been arrested, fines issued, but they were all back again the next day. It is an ongoing problem.
MC stated that officials must be “in their face” every day and arrest and harass these illegal guards, as they will eventually move on. Agreed.
SDS noted that they need statements from complainants, ie. Dolphins Leap, to act.
EvZ noted that Cape Town had embraced their car-guards and cleaned up their streets. They were given training, hand held meters, uniforms, etc, and this model should be implemented.
FH stated that Mobi-Park had been introduced in the Uitenhage and Dispatch area and it will be introduced into other areas. Billy Steyn – 082 499 8069 – runs this project and they will soon start along the beachfront. They are not security officers, and they have formed a good relationship with the Uitenhage SAPS. They carry hand-held devices to issue parking receipts.
MC noted that PSIRA must police this and they must have the resources to do this.
FH noted that they are legalized car-guards, trained, wear bibs. They formed a partnership with the Metro, who will incentivize them to keep the project going.
DM stated this will remain an ongoing issue. 90% have criminal records. PSIRA must be involved to enforce it, and they must take action.
MdB noted that she had provided the Metro with a list of all illegal car-guards, but nothing had been done about the situation.
SS noted the email from Dave van Dyk, of PSIRA, on page 15 of the info pack. It was agreed that a BSSF letter is to be sent, requesting their intervention and action.

8.5 Dogs on beaches – feedback:

DB noted that the draft regulations will now go through a public participation phase before going before Council. He noted that enforcement will be a major challenge.

8.6 Existing issues / problems:

S-Bend: DB noted that this hump had been lowered and the issue had been resolved.
Gomery Taxi Rank: SS highlighted the ongoing dangers of this illegal rank, as per the Cheshire Home email, on page 14 of the info pack, as well as the ongoing problems at the Mercado Centre and around NMMU.
MT responded that the taxi associations had been in the Mayors office last year, because of the ongoing harassment by traffic officials.
MT noted that infrastructure had not been planned to accommodate taxis, and their numbers had increased, through demand, so most of the problems cannot be blamed on the taxi drivers.
MT noted that they do monitor problems at peak hours, but they only have 10 officers per shift, to service from Kempston Road, south. Priorities do change, and they will try and focus on these hotspots at some time. MT also noted that taxi drivers do complain of being victimized, while other motorists are also guilty of obstructing traffic flow.
MT noted that the taxi numbers to NMMU had also increased, and the broader picture must be considered. There are no facilities, and taxi’s are not allowed on campus. He questioned how this matter can be managed. Taxi Associations must be engaged and the NMMU must set limits. Taxi marshalls are needed and a rank is urgently needed, as the students need taxi’s.
MT noted that timetables for students are needed, with a nearby proper loading area / rank.
MT noted that Border Taxi Alliance and others should be approached to discuss these matters.
MT noted that alternate sites for ranks are needed, as traffic is constantly obstructed. This is because Engineers and Planners did not plan for, or consider, the taxi industry in the past.
It was agreed that a joint meeting is needed between BSSF, Taxi Associations, NMMU, Metro.
TS noted that NMMU has a long term plan, but their area of jurisdiction is a problem.
TS noted that there are no problems where bus embayments are used, but some individuals do cause problems. Issues and areas of jurisdiction need to be resolved and they agree that the numbers of taxi’s cannot be reduced, as they have 20 000 students.
MT noted that problems must be reported to their radio control centre – 041 – 585 1555, as they will investigate complaints. All complaints need to be recorded. He noted that taxi drivers do talk to, and warn, each other and some officers try and avoid issuing fines to taxi’s, which has ethical considerations.
MT noted that when reporting problems, request feedback on what action was taken. Traffic will try to eliminate all the problem issues.
DB excused himself and left for another meeting.

8.7 New issues / problems: None raised.

8.8 Boundaries of the BSSF: Not discussed.

9. General:

9.1 Donkey Carts:

SS noted that he had raised this issue at the GOCOC meeting, where role-players agreed that these carts should not be allowed on Allister Miller Drive, past the airport. This matter had also been discussed at the East Cape Emergency Services Committee, ECESCC, where a similar decision had been taken. Traffic were requested to monitor this situation and take action.
MT agreed that this matter will be monitored, and he further stated that many carters were responsible for illegal dumping, which also needed to be monitored.

9.2 Summerstrand Sector Crime Forum:

JH noted the apathy experienced by his committee, and they will try another awareness drive, utilising the ipatrol vehicle. They have no volunteers at present, although the committee for the area between 1st Avenue and 7th Avenue is doing great work.
JH noted that they are considering patrols between 4.30pm and 8.30pm as a start.

9.3 Human Trafficking:

JP gave a brief update on the planned awareness campaign, which included street kids, and noted that no increase in incidents had been reported. However, there are major concerns relating to the arrival of the 2010 soccer visitors. He queried if all the planning was in place to take into account the dangers of increased prostitution, etc.

9.4 Planning and impact of 2010 Soccer:

EvZ noted that the FIFA delegation will be hosted at the Courtyard and they have had several visits from the SAPS. There will be a huge influx of fans and we need to know what SAPS plans are in place, as it is on our doorstep.
After discussion it was agreed that SS arrange for a proper 2010 briefing at a forthcoming BSSF meeting. This to include SAPS and Metro plans.

9.5 Hooting of Taxi’s:

SS noted the ongoing problems and requested Traffic action to stop this practice.
MT noted that hooting is usually to avoid an accident and when they take offenders to Court, the Magistrate just throws it out. MT queried if this is really a problem, as prosecutions are not taken forward. Taxi’s also change hooters and the traffic officers are not able to police this matter, which results in a great deal of wasted time.
SS requested that the Traffic Dept send the same person, where possible, to BSSF meetings, as this matter is an ongoing problem and needed urgent attention.
JG noted that Cape Town has implemented a new by-law to prevent incessant hooting and we need a similar by-law here. Agreed. Efforts will be made to obtain a copy of this by-law.

9.6 Tourism Safety Forum:

SS noted that the minutes of the January 2010 meeting were included in the info pack, pg 21.

9.7 Drowning of paddler:

SS noted that the report had been submitted to the Metro, but no feedback was available yet.

9.8 Metro Police:

Evidently there are huge problems within the Metro and implementation of this project is on hold. Clarity to be obtained on why there are so many delays in implementing this Council resolution.

10. Schedule of meetings: (12noon on the second Tuesday of the month)

Next meeting: - Tuesday, 9th March, 2010, at 12 noon, at the Tsitsikamma Conference Centre.
Future meetings: 13th April, 11th May, 8th June, 13th July, 10th August, 14th September.

There being no further business to discuss, the meeting closed at 13h36, with thanks to the Boardwalk for the refreshments and the use of their venue.

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How can I be of assistance? Please feel free to contact me.

Kind Regards

Councillor Stanford Slabbert (Democratic Alliance)
Ward 1: Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Tel: 041 - 581 7390
Fax: 088 - 041 - 581 7390
Cell: 082 9900 907

www.MyPE.co.za: Report to the Sector 2 Sub Crime Forum Incorporating Lovemore Heights Miramar Mount Pleasant Pari Park Providentia and Walmer Heights as at Wednesday, 27th January, 2010.

Subscribe to the MyPE News Updates.

1. Tough Water restrictions

The Water crisis in NMB is now critical and there is a 4% decline in water stock per month. This means that we will have no water by October, 2010. According to Barry Martin, the Metro's Water Chief, if we do not receive meaningful rainfall soon, some areas might even be difficult to supply by July. Our supply dams are currently at about 40% average capacity, and the Metro only has access to about 30% of this water. The Churchill dam stands at a low 22.8%.

30% of the Metro's water comes from the Gariep dam, via the Fish River scheme, and there are plans to increase this quantity, but this is only scheduled to happen by 2013.

The current Metro consumption stands at 303 Ml/day, and we immediately need to reduce our domestic consumption by at least 20% per day. (Refer to the notes in this info pack).

From 1st February, all households will be restricted to 500 lt per day, at normal tariffs. If more is consumed, penalties will come into effect, at higher tariffs. Watch the press for details.

The Metro has started with the drafting of a Drought Emergency Plan and a specific Disaster Plan is also being considered. Our water status is now critical. Everyone must please help to reduce consumption.

The Metro has employed 400 workers to implement a Water Saving Campaign and pamphlets and visits to residents of this area have now been completed by Yolanda and her team.

Please report all water leaks to 0800 20 50 50. Help conserve water!

2. Objections / Appeals to Residential Property Valuations:

Notification was received early December that the MEC has finally appointed the Appeal Board members. They are Mr Fischat (chairman), Mr John Bartels (vice chairman), Mr Goosen (valuer) Mrs Louis, Mr Scheepers (associated valuer) and Mr Deysel (East London). Apart from Mr Deysel, all the members are from the PE area. It is expected that the new Board will start processing the 7000 objections soon. (Refer to the notes in the annexures of this info pack).

The Property Rates Act and the Systems Act, Section 118, states that once an objection is submitted regarding a valuation of a property, the MEC must attend to that objection within 60 days. This has clearly not happened, and many property owners have been prejudiced by the long delays caused by the non action of the MEC.

According to local officials, a person selling a property has to pay their outstanding rates in full, before they can get their rates clearance. If they pay, and the property is later reduced in value by the Appeal Board, the Metro will refund the overpaid amount.

Urgent issues can be brought to the attention of Roelf Weyers, who will request the valuers to revisit the property and make an assessment.

If you would like to check on the status of your objection or appeal, please contact either:
Mr Roelf Weyers : 041 – 506 5360 and rweyers[at]mandelametro.gov.za
Mr George Rentzke : 041 – 506 5672 and grentzke[at]mandelametro.gov.za

3. Crime in the area:

Stonings at Victoria Drive: Several incidents have recently occurred, so please try and avoid this road, especially after sunset. Do you know of someone who was attacked? All cases must be reported to the SAPS.
Sardinia Bay attacks: Recent media reports have highlighted the serious crime problems that are occurring on a daily basis at this area. No one is safe, especially when the beach and car-park is deserted. Please avoid this area. It is certainly a no-go area after sunset!!
Marine Drive attacks: Another person was attacked on Monday morning, 18th January, at about 10am, between Schoenies and Gate 2. An elderly man was sitting in his car when three black males attacked and robbed him. This area is not safe at the moment!

Please report any incident, as we must ensure that Walmer SAPS stats are correct. Every crime must be reported to ensure that policing trends are kept updated. Please also report any bad service.

Our Walmer SAPS Sector Manager is Inspector Jerling = 082 3343 764 or 041 – 504 5410.

Neighbourhood Watch patrols: Congratulations are extended to all the local role-players and patrollers for the wonderful work that is being done to keep this area safer for all. Please continue with your fine work, even after crime stats start dropping, as criminals are watching all the time.

If you note any problems whilst on patrol, such as leaking water or sewer pipes, or overflowing manholes, or street lights not working, please send me an email with the relevant details. Any reports received are immediately sent on to the Metro officials for action.

4. Problems in the area:

Salisbury Park: Dumping, vagrants, and vandalism is on the increase, and there is still no progress with the clearing of this area. The battle for effective control of this area will continue.
Emerald Square Shopping Centre: It appears that the problems caused by the noisy fans and the bad siting of the ATM's are still not resolved. Efforts will continue to have these problems corrected.
Boundary Road vlei: Maintenance of the vlei area is proving to be a challenge, and efforts will continue to have this area maintained on a regular basis. Please report any activity by quad-bikes and motorbikes to Traffic control on 041 585 1555.
General maintenance: Pavements in the CBD area (High Street) still need to be rectified and /or provided. The high incidence of blocked sewers remains a cause for major concern. The high incidence of burst water pipes is another major concern. There have been several sewer leaks into Kelly's Vlei and the general state of this POS is most disconcerting, as this area deserves better treatment.
Illegal Taxi rank: Despite numerous requests, the congestion, pollution and environmental concerns remain a problem alongside the Engen Garage. Efforts will continue to resolve these matters.
Sardinia Bay road, dune encroachment: The Metro is determined to close the road to the bottom car-park, as they say the sand dune cannot be stopped. The fight will continue to have this beach access reopened for all.
Illegal Dumping continues unchecked: The Metro Task Team established to combat this scourge has still done absolutely nothing. If you see someone dumping, take a picture, and/or their registration details, and please forward this to your local councillor. Please also report any new sites.

5. Traffic Matters:

Please report illegal activities to the Metro Call centre at 041 – 585 1555. Please ask yourself the following questions: What road repairs are needed? What traffic problems need to be resolved or addressed? Where do we need speed checking?

If you believe that action is needed on any of the above, please email me your proposal and comments. These will be collated and included in our next revision of the Ward 1 plan.

Speed and traffic monitoring: Below are reports on speed checking done in this area:

Video law enforcement was conducted at Buffelsfontein Road and Melsetter Street: On Wednesday, 21 October 2009 between the hours 06:30 and 08:10, one(1) motorists were prosecuted for causing obstruction. On Thursday, 05 November 2009 between the hours 15:24 and 16:24, five (5) motorists were prosecuted for disregarding the road sign: no stopping, no u turn, robot and vehicle in motion whilst door is open.
Speed law enforcement was conducted at Buffelsfontein Road and Melsetter Street: On Tuesday, 22 September 2009 between the hours 06:30 and 08:30, eight hundred (800) vehicles was measured and eleven (11) motorists were prosecuted for disregarding the 60 km/h speed limit the highest 86 km/h. On Friday, 06 November 2009 between the hours 08:30 and 14:00, two thousand four hundred (2400) vehicles was measured and sixteen (16) motorists were prosecuted for disregarding the 60 km/h speed limit the highest 89 km/h.
Speed law enforcement was conducted at Buffelsfontein Road and Melsetter Street on Thursday, 10 December 2009 between the hours 16:00 and 18:00, one thousand nine hundred (1900) vehicles were measured and five (5) motorists were prosecuted for disregarding the 60 km/h speed limit the highest 94 km/h.
On Monday, 14 December 2009 between the hours 10:00 and 13:00, one thousand seven hundred and forty (1740) vehicles was measured and two (2) motorists were prosecuted for disregarding the 60 km/h speed limit the highest 89 km/h.

Road and Traffic matters:

Glendore Road traffic calming measures: This matter has been discussed before, and we need to re-affirm what should be done to minimise the noise and create a safer environment. A general consensus is needed. Do we request the removal of the existing speed humps and replace them with a traffic circle? Do we request traffic circles at the Michaelangelo, Chopin and Beethoven intersections?
Traffic circles needed? Melsetter and Edmonds? Athlone and Gladys? Any other suggestions?
Speed humps needed? Melsetter, Boundary Rd, Athlone Street, Botha, Gladys. General consensus needed.
Traffic problems: Speeding hot-spots: Boundary Rd, Melsetter Rd, Edmonds Rd, Sardinia Bay Rd. Speeding on Buffelsfontein Rd, between Melsetter and Longmeadow Estate. Four way stop streets not being adhered to. General complaints.

6. Housing and Land matters:

Erf 1832, Lovemore Heights. Sale of 4m portion of this POS. Awaiting clarity on status.
Erf 3327, Lovemore Heights. Application for Guesthouse, ZSD for a third floor, in progress.
Erf 3062, Lovemore Heights. # 63 Greenways Road. Status? Demolition requested!

7. Liquor License issues / applications:

Foongs, at Emerald Square.

8. General matters:

Ward Office: After a ten month wait, the acting MM has finally signed the lease agreement and the Ward 1 office will soon be operational at the upstairs office, # 9, Seagate Centre, Torquay Street. (above Action Sports) The process to appoint a Ward Assistant has now started.
Local Disaster Management: Names are still needed of any interested residents who would like to volunteer to assist in any emergency. Free training will be provided. Let me know.
Dogs on beaches: We need to stand up for our four legged friends, but we also need to do it responsibly. Always have your dog on a leash, and use a pooper scooper. Please always leave the beach as you would like to find it, and please be considerate of those around you.
Arlington Landfill site: Please notify me if you experience any problems caused by this site.
Assistance to the Poor - ATTP: Many residents are battling in these tough economic times. Information is available.
Heritage and Graves Audit: Do you have information that needs to be considered? Please advise my office soonest.
SpecSavers Ironman: The date for this year is Sunday, 25th April, 2010. Road closures will be from 7am to 5pm.

9. Ward 1 Committee meeting dates for 2010:

Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month, at 5.30pm, at the Kings Tide Boutique Hotel, 10th Avenue, Summerstrand. Observers are always welcome to attend.

Dates for 2010: Wednesday, 3rd February, 3rd March, 7th April, 5th May, 2nd June. Ward Committee elections are due to be held early in the new year. Your current committee is all available and meetings have continued, even though the ANC disbanded these structures.

Sincere thanks are extended to the ten Ward 1 Committee members who have assisted me with my work over the past three years: Mariette Rossouw, George Adams, Trevlyn Lotz, John Veltman, Gail Cillie, Rob Wylde, Rose Trehaeven, Dave McIntosh, Herman Nell, Gail Brown.