Just how bad are things in Knysna?
The Knysna Plett Herald's Zoe Fick discusses the recent Knysna Council meeting where a 'Diagnostic Assessment and Support Plan' from the provincial government was adopted.
Knysna. © petertt/123rf.com
Residents of Knysna in the Western Cape have taken to the streets to protest what they say is a lack of service delivery and transparency in decision-making processes.
Once known as the Jewel of the Garden Route, the coastal town recently found itself the subject of a Carte Blanche episode, shedding light on the town's deteriorating condition.
On Friday, Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning confirmed that the Knysna Council had adopted a Diagnostic Assessment and Support Plan drafted by the provincial government.
"It is important that the various spheres of government work together as one team if our interventions in Knysna are to have any chance of success," he said.
Zoe Fick is a news reporter for the area and says residents are demanding action.
"I would say the frustration from residents is definitely felt on a much larger scale."
Zoe Fick, Journalist - Knysna Plett Herald
Fick says there was a special council meeting following a public protest, led by the Democratic Alliance (DA) on Thursday, giving residents a chance to have their voices heard.
Fick adds that the frustration is being felt across socio-economic lines.
"From the most working class to the highest earning in this town within the past couple of months alone have been complaining to me, bringing stories to me of poor service delivery."
Zoe Fick, Journalist - Knysna Plett Herald
"As a resident myself, I can say there is a need for tangible change."
Zoe Fick, Journalist - Knysna Plett Herald
Among the key actions identified by the Diagnostic Assessment are the need for local government to strengthen the relationship with the community, fiscal discipline needs to be re-introduced and the Code of Conduct for Councillors needs to be revisited.
Fick says the biggest problem has been the water and waste crisis in the town.
On Friday, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said, "We strongly urge the Knysna Municipality to implement the steps outlined in the report tabled on Friday, to bring stability to the town, in the interests of the residents. We as the WCG are willing to provide any further support to the council. It is vitally important that service delivery is restored."