Department of Public Works and Infrastructure owes Ekurhuleni over R1.6 Million for the lease of Brackendowns Police Station

by Cllr Thavha Maifala-Masebe — Ward 38 Councillor in Ekurhuleni

Date: 08 May 2023

Release: Immediate

Type: Media Statement

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Ward 38, Brackenhurst and Brackendowns is shocked to learn that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) owes the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) over R1 637 425,73 for the leasing of the property hosting Brackendowns Police Station.

This was revealed by former MMC for Real Estate, Cllr Tambo Mokoena, in response to the DA’s questions for written reply tabled during the Ordinary Council Meeting held on the 30th of March 2023. The information from the City is contrary to the response received from the DPWI at the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee Meeting held on the 22nd of February 2023, in response to the DA’s petition, where the department stated that it did not owe the City any money. What is even more alarming is that the department has not renewed its lease despite stating that it had a new lease agreement signed with the City.

It is concerning that there is no coherent communication between the city and DPWI with regards to the leasing of the property where the Brackendowns Police Station is currently based. It is for this very reason that the DA has on several occasions requested national government to engage with the City to obtain a property where a permanent police station can be built.

In response to whether the City’s Real Estate Department would be willing to transfer the ownership of the property to the DPWI, the department indicated that it would prefer to maintain the ownership of the property as it provides a regular stream of income to the City. However, there is a possibility that the City could have the property disposed of pending a decision of Council.

The DA believes the police stations should have a permanent presence within communities given the high crime rate in the city and the Country. A permanent structure will also assist with ensuring that the facility is adequately equipped to serve the residents of Ward 38 and the immediate surrounding areas. We, therefore, implore the current MMC for Real Estate, Cllr. Kgopelo Hollo, to engage with the DPWI to find a permanent and sustainable solution to this matter to ensure a better, safer, and stronger community.

While the DA is eager to see the DPWI take ownership of the property to ensure a permanent police presence in the area, we feel strongly that the department should settle its account with the City before considering the transfer of ownership of the property.

The DA believes that individuals cannot reach their potential and take advantage of opportunities if they live in fear. In the DA’s vision of an Open Opportunity Society for All, children are safe from harm and citizens can walk in our cities and townships without fear.

Criminals are caught promptly and prosecuted speedily, and victims of crime receive appropriate support and are treated with compassion.

Citizens are respectful of the law and understand the consequences of violating it. Communities are confident that those prosecuted will be punished and will be given opportunities to atone for their actions.

Although community safety is not a primary function of local government, the DA in Ekurhuleni is committed to ensuring that the national government acts to achieve this vision, by having a permanent police station built in our community.

Cllr Thavha Maifala-Masebe

Ward 38 Councillor in Ekurhuleni

0615404973