KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna Mayor Levael Davis recently reported on achievements in his first three months in office, measuring accomplishments against his 100-day plan announced in December 2021.

In a municipal press release issued late last week, Davis said that cooperation was crucial to their success. "I want to thank the multi-party coalition for their valuable contribution - without teamwork we would not be able to reach our goals."

The first 100 days kicked off with the season readiness plan. 

"Challenges that came with a bumper season were recognised and solutions identified for future implementation. Keeping our promise to support local beautification projects, we entered into partnerships with Revive Knysna and other similar community-based initiatives," he said.

"We used the adjustment budget to allocate more money towards both street and general signage, which is a key part of our goal to create a town we can be proud of."

A review of the service charter was another focus area. "We assessed what is in place, and suggested changes to be submitted to Council for approval."

In line with their promise to improve the municipality's financial situation, Davis said they are addressing the large debtors' book and billing system problems.

"We also introduced a zero-tolerance approach to debt collection and have already seen positive results and significant revenue improvement.

"We now have weekly collections monitoring meetings with senior management, as well as the monthly debt review committee, chaired by me. The mayoral committee has also started to amend the creditors' policy on the billing system."

Davis said he believes engaging with residents in greater Knysna is key to effective planning and successes that bring about change. "I met with many stakeholders from NGOs to spaza shop owners to understand their varying needs. Tourism is one of our key economic drivers and we've had several strategic engagements with businesses and tourism stakeholders to find the most suitable tourism model for Knysna."

Referring to the appointment of a municipal manager, Davis said that shortlisting has been completed.

"This appointment is crucial to bring stability to the administration arm of the municipality, and we are happy with the progress to date."

He said the municipal manager is a key partner in the review of the macro-structure of the municipality. 

"The mayoral committee conducted a Swot analysis [strengh, weakness, opportunity and threat] of the various departments - it was important to dissect each department to effectively address the challenges. Addressing crime in the area remains one of our main priorities and we are engaging crime prevention stakeholders to develop an effective strategy for Knysna. 

"Our legal department is currently reviewing and amending our by-laws to enhance law enforcement efficiency."

Davis said that infrastructure development is a burning and essential part of their 100-day plan.

"This is a key focus and we've worked hard to prioritise infrastructure projects:

• Additional funds was approved through the adjustment budget towards roads, electrification, and critical fleet;
• A comprehensive infrastructure department analysis is taking place that will help us to budget more effectively;

Our approved adjustments budget had a clear infrastructure focus including:

• R200K towards the water and sewer master plan;
• An additional R1-million for road safety, including speed bumps and guard rails;
• R5,2-million was allocated for road resurfacing in Knysna CBD, Hornlee and Sedgefield;
• R10-million grant funding will be used for Concordia Road, which runs through the northern areas."

He said the issue of land remains a vital catalyst for the future growth and development of the town and a land audit report has been workshopped with Council. 

"A multi-party land subcommittee will be established to advise Council on the most appropriate use of land for development and economic purposes."

They also investigated alternative labour options. "A service level agreement with the Department of Correctional Services is in its final stages. The agreement can be beneficial on many levels. Prisoners provide a labour force to the municipality, and at the same time gain experience as part of a rehabilitation programme. This will go a long way to restore the dignity of the offenders, save cost and add immense value to the Knysna community."

The other mayoral dignity projects, Back-to-school and Her Dignity, are ongoing - the first phase of shoes and stationery distribution is complete.

"The generous donations from businesses and individuals have been the wings behind these projects. These projects give me hope - thank you so much to all our sponsors, we cannot do it without you. We have only been in the office for three months of a five-year term and worked hard towards reaching our goals and to deliver on our promises. 

"Knysna, all of Knysna, no matter what party they voted for, is our priority and we will continue to work for the greater good of all. Thank you for your support, for your criticisms and recommendations. We look forward to working with you to create a town we can love, live and prosper in."

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