Mark R H Kleinschmidt, ward councillor, Ward 60
Since becoming the ward councillor for Ward 60, which covers Belthorn Estate (south-east of Lawson Road, north-east of Rokery Road and west of Jan Smuts Street), Crawford, Kenwyn, Lansdowne, Rondebosch East, and Sybrand Park, I have been inundated with residents’ complaints, ranging from the cause of the huge sinkhole in Rondebosch East to the removal of dead rats, illegal dumping and trading, as well as road rehabilitation. But such is the nature of the job, and I love it.
A councillor is seldom complimented for a task well done, and the demands by taxpayers can be overwhelming and arduous. I consider it a calling like nursing and teaching, rather than a means to derive my income.
I was overwhelmed and pleasantly surprised by a resident who delivered a fruit basket of goodies to sustain my energy levels for the demands made upon a ward councillor.
I am grateful for the gift and the thoughtfulness, and, thankfully, it’s value is less than R250, otherwise it is incumbent upon me to declare it to council.
Wishing all 116 ward councillors well during their five-year term, and together we can make progress possible.
