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Celebrating the first 100 days in office, Mayor Johan Allers of the Greater Oudtshoorn Municipality has already set a precedent for proactive governance and substantial community interaction. Since assuming office on August 1, 2024, Mayor Allers, along with the Governance of Local Unity (GLU), Speaker Suzane Jansen, and Deputy Mayor Mziwoxolo Tyatya, has initiated a series of impactful measures aimed at improving local governance and enhancing service delivery.
Under the leadership of Mayor Allers, the municipality has embarked on several significant projects. Despite the deferment of the refuse count implementation to the next financial year, the municipality promises to develop and prioritize a new tariff structure. This decision reflects a strategic approach to municipal planning and fiscal responsibility.
Addressing concerns related to unregulated tourism, licensing of spaza shops, and informal businesses, Mayor Allers identified these as pivotal for equitable economic growth. The community can expect advancements in regulation and support, aimed at stabilizing and invigorating the local economy. Furthermore, the municipality is taking steps to enhance infrastructure, with plans to upgrade essential services like water, electricity, and roads.
Mayor Allers has also prioritized the auditing of RDP housing and assessments of indigent households to ensure equitable distribution and access to resources. This move underscores the administration's commitment to fairness and transparency in resource allocation.
Highlighting his administration's devotion to community engagement, Mayor Allers has promoted the use of the Collab Citizen App. This tool is designed to streamline communication and improve interactions between residents and the municipal authorities. He also emphasizes the importance of the GRANT-IN-AID program for the fiscal year 2025/2026, encouraging local organizations to apply and benefit from municipal support.
Looking forward, Mayor Allers expressed a heartfelt gratitude towards the residents of Oudtshoorn for their warm reception and acknowledged the collective efforts of his colleagues, municipal officials, and community partners in driving forward the region's development goals.
As Mayor Allers sets his sights on future endeavors, he remains committed to fostering a strong, resilient, and inclusive community, aiming to address ongoing challenges while harnessing opportunities for growth and improvement in the Greater Oudtshoorn area.