Subcouncil 14

Resolution detail

The Subcouncil Chairperson introduced this item and further gave an opportunity to the official to give a detailed feedback. Miss. Mahlasela reported that this item is emanating from the inputs that were received on the formulation of the new term of office IDP. The process was done in 2021 and 2022 as a result they have a document that is approved for the IDP new term of office 2022/2027. The report is for noting. It requires the Subcouncil to comment on the public participation process in respect of the 2023/24 draft budget and to submit comments and input to line departments, for consideration when compiling the draft budget. The IDP office has sent the key informants to all Subcouncil to assist during the commencement of process, considering the fact that there has already been inputs received. Subcouncils are required to prioritize comments and inputs received when preparing submissions. They are requesting the Subcouncil to obtain the comments and to have a structured process of obtaining or prioritization of the comments. The ward Cllrs and Subcouncil Chairpersons involved have to decide on the method they are going to follow in this process. Comments can be obtained through ward committees or focus group sessions. The process ends on the 30th of October 2022. A SharePoint site will be made available to the Subcouncil Managers, allowing for information to be uploaded, after which such information will bemade available to the relevant line departments for consideration in the drafting of the 2023/24 Operating and Capital Budgets. The Public Participation Unit will lead and drive the coordination and monitor the operationalization of this process, and provide such support as may be required in meeting the stated objectives outlined in the report. Cllr Moses indicated that the process of Public Participation is fundamental and determines how to move forward with public comment. He further acknowledged and appreciated Zandile Mahlasela for the dedication and good work she has done in the communities through public participation. Ald. Jacobs indicated that Public Participation process is a significant process. She mentioned that the number of community members attending budget or public participation meetings has declined. The public participation inputs have become a wish list. The Subcouncil Chairperson indicated that community members misinterpret the purpose of the budget meetings, they make the meetings complaint sessions. Cllr Ngcombolo proposed for public participation to use ward-based outreach in their approach to ensure that community members understands the processes. Cllr Moses mentioned that if the Subcouncil would ask for the report on how the COCT has done in terms of public participation it would show that the COCT has done well. Miss. Mahlasela thanked the Cllrs for the comments and indicated that they are using a ward-based approach. She indicated she will engage with the Subcouncil Manager by the 20th of September to find out the method that will be used in each ward. She added that they are trying to improve participation of community members. They have started with ward based sector engagements to educate people about public participation. They have already started in Delft and the sessions are going very well. She anticipated an improvement of community involvement in the next budget meeting. The Subcouncil Manager asked the Subcouncil Chairperson for guidance into the approach that will be followed for each ward. On the 24th of September 2022, there will be a briefing of ward committee members on this item. The Subcouncil Chairperson agreed to the briefing of ward committee members. He mentioned that ward approach might differ depending on the stakeholders in a ward. He further requested to be included in all communication that involves the Cllrs. Cllr Nikelo moved for noting of the report. Cllr Moses seconded the proposalThere was unanimous agreement with the resolution. RESOLVED That the report on 2022/23 Budget Consultation and Proposed Public Participation Process with Subcouncils BE NOTED with the comments made by Cllrs. . Action: ANTHONY DANIELS