Following a joint enforcement operation by the Msukaligwa Local Municipality to remove unlawful advertising signage, which sparked frustration among many local businesses, a meeting was held between affected parties and Municipal Manager Mr Kunene on 25 February.
The gathering provided an opportunity for affected business owners to voice their concerns about the manner in which the operation was carried out. Janice de Jager of the Democratic Alliance addressed the meeting on behalf of the business owners, outlining what many described as the core issue — a lack of communication from the municipality.
"We are fully aware of the fact that there is illegal signage. But the manner in how you have dealt with the matter is the case in point,” she said
De Jager further criticised the process, saying there had been no prior communication or notices issued to business owners before the signage was removed.
“No communication. No notices issued. Carelessly placed stickers with zero information. Why was this not communicated to business owners via the media, social media, emails? Municipal staff must adhere to a clear code of conduct that ensures fairness, transparency and accountability,” she added.
In response, Mr Kunene acknowledged that there was room for improvement in how the municipality communicates with residents and businesses, assuring those present that the matter would be looked into.
He explained that illegal signage has been an ongoing challenge in Ermelo, with cases reported where individuals place signage on the premises of other businesses or install unapproved signage in front of traffic lights. In some instances, signage has also obstructed motorists’ visibility, creating potential safety risks.
According to Mr Kunene, these concerns necessitated action to regulate and remove unlawful signage in the town.
“If there are shortcomings we must try and correct them, in the interest of public safety and in the interest of promoting our town. ” he said.
The meeting concluded with an agreement on the underlying concerns raised by business owners, particularly the need for clearer communication and engagement from the municipality. It was further agreed that another meeting will be held in due course to address the municipality’s advertising by-law in more detail, including possible amendments and how it will be implemented moving forward.
