GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The Garden Route District Municipality has adopted its amended Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and 2026/27 Medium-Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework budget, setting the municipality's priorities for the coming financial year.
Addressing council, Mayor Marais Kruger said the approved plans would help shape the future of the district and support sustainable service delivery.
He stressed the impact of recent severe weather events and flood damage across the region, and referred to the importance of resilient infrastructure, coordinated disaster response and continued support for affected communities.
"As Council, let us continue to lead with integrity, unity, and a shared commitment to good governance and the wellbeing of our communities," Kruger said.
During the debate, Good councillor Rosa Louw welcomed the overall direction of the IDP but called for stronger implementation and accountability. She identified infrastructure challenges, unemployment and poverty, as well as regulatory enforcement, as key issues facing the district.
"The Garden Route has the potential to be a model for rural development, tourism and the green economy, but potential without execution remains just a dream," Louw said.
She urged the municipality to ensure that capital projects aimed at improving water security, waste management and infrastructure maintenance are completed on time and within budget. Louw also called for greater support for local small businesses through procurement opportunities and regular reporting on job creation outcomes.
The Good Party supported the adoption of the IDP, but pointed out the need for measurable targets, financial discipline, transparency and meaningful public participation.
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