The City of Cape Town is in the process of establishing ward committees and calls on community-based organisations (CBOs) to register or update their details as the first step in this process.
Community-based organisations have until 28 October to register their details for the first time, learn more about ward committees, identify the appropriate sector they represent, check if they are already registered, or confirm their details.
The City will use this information to update its database for the constitution and election of ward committee members. Only community-based organisations that are registered will be able to nominate and elect representatives for the ward committees. New registration for the database will open again after 1 February 2012.
Ward committees are essential for consultation and communication and provide an important link between the community and the City’s statutory processes and bodies. More than 4 000 organisations are already registered and they are asked to please confirm their details. Others will have to register for the first time. Only registered organisations are eligible to nominate representatives to the ward committee. Annually, organisations are required to confirm their registration details together with evidence of activity within the community.
Each ward committee comprises up to ten members, which should accurately reflect the interests of registered organisations in the ward. The sectors include ratepayers and civic organisations, faith-based organisations, community safety and security initiatives, the natural and built environment, early childhood education, constituted youth organisations, arts and culture interests, sports, business interests in the community and designated vulnerable groups concerned with gender, the aged and the disabled.
The ward committee is chaired by the ward councillor. Ward committees guide and advise the ward councillor on needs and priorities in the local community and give input on the budget and legislation. They meet at least four times a year, and members receive an allowance for out-of-pocket expenses.
It is expected that ward committees will begin to function in January 2012.
To register, visit www.capetown.gov.za/wardcommittees, or contact:
- Gail Bashley
Tel: 021 400 5524
Fax: 021 400 7452
E-mail: Gail.Bashley@capetown.gov.za, or - Busie Noveve
Tel: 021 400 5587
Fax: 021 400 7452
E-mail: Busie.Noveve@capetown.gov.za
