Imbizo pay out mystery remains

A year on and there are still unanswered questions over the Mayoral Imbizo that never was…
The former council had proposed that a Mayoral Imbizo be held - a decision that was later overturned as it was felt the event would 'turn political' as the May 18 local government elections were looming.
However, it was then heard that a group of Newcastle consultants had already been paid around R60 000 for work already done, allegedly, to organise the Imbizo that never was.
Despite constant badgering for an explanation, the Endumeni Residents Association are yet to receive feedback although chairman, FC Bester, remains hopeful that a breakdown of the money paid to the consultant will be forthcoming following a meeting with the Mayor, Deputy and Speaker in December.
Councillor arrears
Turning to other matters, Mr Bester said the Association was concerned that one (Endumeni) councillor owes over R30 000 in service charge arrears. This councillor is the only one who has also made no attempt to pay off the arears - two others who owe around R2 000 and R11 000 respectively have made arrangement to pay off their debt.
Beautify
Mr Bester told the Courier that the association, which is now affiliated to civil rights group, AfriForum, was also hoping to beautify the vacant land adjacent to the police garage on Karellandman Street.
"We hope to put up shelters, tables and chairs - keep it clean - where workers in the area can rest and/or eat their lunch during their off time," he said.
He was also hopeful that the authorities will eventually move or block off the police 'scrapyard', which he feels spoils the image of Dundee to visitors travelling in on the main road.
"Congratulations to George Adalis of Super Spar on undertaking this huge project that has transformed the central business district. With the council now intending to vastly improve the rest of Victoria and Willson Streets this augurs well for our town. However, we believe much can still be done to regulate street traders who are severely affecting formal businesses who are forced to follow a host of health and other regulations before they can even open their doors.
"What I propose is that a council delegation visit Marble Hall in Mpumalanga where much has been done to set up proper shelters and toilet facilities for street traders in a central area - to the benefit of all."