KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna Municipality has called on residents to participate in the budget process.

The municipality is currently consulting residents on its 2019/2020 draft budget, the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) review and the Spatial Development Framework.

The process gives communities the opportunity to have direct interaction and contact with the mayoral committee, ward councillors and senior municipal officials.

By Monday 29 April meetings have been concluded in Wards 1, 2, 7 and 8. Knysna mayor Mark Willemse commended the communities of these areas for their participation. "The attendance and insightful inputs given by these communities have been fruitful," Willemse said.

He however also expressed his concerns about the historical apathy and lack of attendance in more affluent wards.

"In the past we have noticed that, instead of actively attend or participate in the public presentations, residents in these wards opted to rather air their views in the media. This approach is counter-productive and most certainly does not strengthen relationships. I appeal and encourage residents to make use of this opportunity to engage with us."

"Council view the public participation process as an important fact finding mission during which they can establish the real issues within communities, as well as what residents expect from their municipality."

The draft budget is available for inspection on the municipal website www.knysna.gov.za and at the municipal customer care centre in Woodmill Lane, at the Sedgefield municipal offices in Flamingo Street and at all municipal libraries.

Representations on the draft budget can also be submitted in writing on or before Monday 20 May.

These should be addressed to the municipal manager at PO Box 21, Knysna or via e-mail to budget@knysna.gov.za.

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