Robert’s opinion on the proposed Central SRA:

Some people are of the opinion that the SRA will take over from the Municipality and other institutions and that these will not provide the services we pay for. This is far from the reality.

Firstly, the SRA is set up and controlled by property owners who have property, or who stay in, or who have businesses in Central and St Georges. The SRA is a collective voice to hold accountable and to work with the relevant authorities and departments to ensure we get the services we pay for. The SRA, once adopted, by the majority of property owners, will be a legal body with an elected management committee and board of directors. An annual general meeting will be held and the whole process will be transparent. Up till now the interim committee has just spearheaded the process and has laid some groundwork upon which can be built.

Once the SRA has been established, only then can the real process of negotiation begin with the SAPS, Metro Security, MBDA, the Municipality, area forums, ward councillors etc. This is an inclusive process and is not to the exclusion of anyone or any organisation. Once discussion have been held the committee will be able to ascertain where the gaps are and what is need to ensure a safe and secure area.

The SRA has a five year plan, at which point the property owners will revalue the concept and take appropriate action. The hard work will be in the first few years and once we are satisfied with the results, it should be a lot easier to maintain, and possibly cost increases will not be necessary.

There is no price to high, to have a safe and secure suburb, where we can feel free to walk about, where we can feel proud to stay and work. Central is the heartbeat of the City, if we do not take care of it, who will!

Robert is a proud Central Resident in Cuyler and can be contacted here: https://www.facebook.com/jikeleza.lodge/.