Councillor Tracey Lourenco has described 2024 as one of the most challenging years for service delivery in Ward 104, with residents frequently expressing frustration over unfulfilled promises and inadequate municipal response. Reflecting on the year’s events, Lourenco noted that it felt as though time had passed quickly, yet the persistent issues faced by the community made it a year marked by frustration and disappointment. She acknowledged that residents have been left feeling let down by various departments throughout the year, as their concerns seemed to go unresolved despite repeated efforts to address them.
A major point of contention for Lourenco and her constituents has been the ongoing delays with the bus rapid transit project on CR Swart Drive. Although the road was officially opened by Mayor Xhakaza months ago, significant issues remain, including incomplete road markings and unfinished final touches. Lourenco described the design of the road as hazardous, citing numerous accidents in the area, and emphasized that residents were unhappy with the state of the project. The incomplete infrastructure not only impacts daily commuters but has also raised serious safety concerns within the ward.
Environmental issues also weighed heavily on Lourenco’s agenda, particularly the pollution at Swartspruit River. She was relieved when her motion to address the pollution was passed in the November council meeting, offering a glimmer of hope for residents who have long suffered from the deteriorating water quality. Lourenco believes that the passing of the motion marks a step forward in resolving the long-standing environmental issue, promising improvements that would benefit local communities. However, challenges remain, and Lourenco remains committed to pushing for tangible solutions in the months ahead.
Crime has also been a persistent concern, with illegal tuck shops and businesses continuing to operate despite numerous closures. Lourenco acknowledged the difficulty of tackling this issue, as many of these operations are clandestinely set up and often evade enforcement. The presence of illegal businesses exacerbates crime in the ward, and Lourenco reiterated her commitment to working closely with law enforcement to find a more effective solution. She also raised concerns about the ongoing sewer line issues in Birch Acres, which will require substantial infrastructure upgrades to prevent future service disruptions.
In addition to these pressing matters, Lourenco discussed ongoing issues such as potholes, malfunctioning streetlights, and burst water mains, all of which have been recurring problems for residents. While the relevant departments have assured the public that they are working within the integrated management system to address these concerns, Lourenco encouraged residents to report issues via the app or call centre to expedite the process. Another concern raised by the community is the interim billing system, which has caused confusion and unexpected charges for many households. Lourenco urged residents to closely monitor their bills to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Despite the numerous challenges, Lourenco acknowledged the efforts made by some municipal departments, particularly the teams responsible for pothole repairs, streetlight maintenance, and refuse collection. She also praised the parks department for doing what it could with limited resources. Lourenco expressed her gratitude to the residents for their continued support and resilience, commending the spirit of the community in the face of adversity. As the year comes to a close, she wished all residents a peaceful and safe festive season, urging those traveling to do so with care. Looking ahead, Lourenco remains focused on improving service delivery and ensuring that the community’s needs are met with the urgency and attention they deserve.
