Sedgefield ratepayers association steps in as water crisis looms
By Alvin Witten
Serious concerns around service delivery failures and community engagement dominated the agenda at the Sedgefield Ratepayers Association (SRA) Executive Committee (Exco) meeting held on Wednesday evening, as ongoing infrastructure breakdowns continue to affect residents.
For several months, Sedgefielders have been on high alert due to repeated failures in basic municipal services, particularly water infrastructure maintained by the Knysna Municipality. Of growing concern is the breakdown of critical water booster pumps, largely attributed to poor or absent maintenance, which has resulted in unreliable water supply to local reservoirs and mounting frustration within the community.
Imminent Water Supply Risk
The Exco was informed that both booster pumps at the Karatara River site have failed. One pump broke down weeks ago and has not been repaired, while the second failed more recently and also remains out of service. As a result, Sedgefield faces an imminent water outage, projected as early as Friday, should repairs not be completed in time.
Although water is currently being trucked in, consumption continues to exceed replenishment, placing the town in a critical position. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Exco approved immediate and flexible funding to address the crisis. Local technician Calvin Jafta, who has extensive knowledge of the infrastructure, is leading the repair efforts. This includes removing one pump for off-site repair, pending cost approval, while simultaneously addressing on-site repairs to restore functionality as quickly as possible.
To prevent further delays, the committee agreed to bypass bureaucratic processes and authorised Mr Jafta to proceed with repairs immediately, with a budget cap of up to R20,000 without prior approval. This decisive action aims to restore water flow to the town and avert a full-scale water crisis over the weekend.
The SRA has reiterated its commitment to transparent financial management. Members will be fully informed of how funds are spent, and the association will attempt to recover costs from the Knysna Municipality once the immediate crisis has been resolved.
An emergency repair group has also been mobilised, and daily progress updates will be shared with members to ensure transparency and to encourage community support and donations where needed.
Escalating Accountability
Beyond the immediate water crisis, the Exco expressed deep concern over repeated failures in communication and service delivery from the Knysna Municipality. After numerous engagements with municipal departments and government officials on issues ranging from water infrastructure and waste management to road maintenance, with little to no tangible response, the committee resolved to escalate matters.
A formal complaint to the Office of the Public Protector has been prepared and approved for submission. The association believes this step is necessary to enforce accountability after all other avenues have been exhausted. Members will be informed as soon as the complaint is submitted.
The Exco further affirmed its support for proactive oversight that extends beyond municipal structures, including engagement with law enforcement and other relevant government bodies. At the same time, the association committed to publicly acknowledging effective service delivery where it occurs, while continuing to hold all responsible authorities accountable for failures.
Acting in the Community’s Interest
The Sedgefield Ratepayers Association emphasised that these actions are taken in the best interests of the community. By responding swiftly to emergencies, maintaining transparency, and advocating for accountability, the association aims to protect residents’ well-being and restore trust in local governance.
Sedgefielders are encouraged to stay informed through official SRA communications as developments unfold.
How the Community Can Help
The Sedgefield Ratepayers Association calls on residents who are able to assist during this critical period. Financial contributions towards the emergency water infrastructure repairs will help ensure swift action and reduce the risk of water shortages. Community members are also encouraged to remain water-wise and to share official updates to keep everyone informed. All funds received will be managed transparently, with full reporting to members.
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