As part of its preparation for the State of the Municipality Address, the Emfuleni Local Municipality kick started the process of IDP consultation with a staging of a Mini-People's Assembly on Monday, 16 April 2012.

The Assembly was attended mainly by ward committee members drawn from across 45 Ward Committees in Emfuleni. Members as representatives of their constituencies were engaged on the entire IDP processes.

Valuable information was shared relating to developments in their respective areas. Ward Committees were also informed of their responsibilities and duties which include among others, relaying information to ordinary community members in their respective wards and making them aware of the process of submitting comments, inputs and representations to the municipality. The Assembly also focused on process of compiling the budget for the 2012/13 financial year including the proposed operational and capital expenditure thereof. The presentation was made by the Executive Mayor, Clr Greta Hlongwane.

Members also received presentations on public safety, bylaws and new guidelines on safety guidelines for events which were done by MMC Shaka Radebe (Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture) and MMC Veli Mcera (Public Safety).

IDP meetings are spearheaded by the Office of the Speaker, Clr Msebenzi Gqelosha and takes place from 17 April until 08 May 2012. Members of the public who are not able to attend meetings can access the draft budget and IDP at various municipal offices and libraries. Those who have access to the internet can visit ELM website at www.emfuleni.gov.za or contact the IDP office at (016) 950 5092.

By Paseka Rakosa