To: The Municipal Council of Swellendam Municipality

Date: 9 May 2026

Subject: Petition Regarding Leadership and Conduct Within the Infrastructure Department

We, the undersigned residents, property owners, taxpayers, and stakeholders within the Swellendam Municipal area, hereby formally submit this petition to express our serious concerns regarding the management and conduct of the head of the Infrastructure Department.

Over an extended period, many residents and developers have experienced what we believe to be unfair, inconsistent, and obstructive treatment relating to development applications, infrastructure matters, and municipal engagement within our towns and communities.

Our concerns include, but are not limited to:

* Delays and obstruction relating to development processes.
* Unequal or inconsistent treatment of residents and applicants.
* Poor communication and lack of transparency.
* A growing perception that decisions are not being made in the best interests of the broader Swellendam Municipal area.
* An ongoing breakdown in trust between residents, investors, and the Infrastructure Department.

As residents and taxpayers who are directly invested in the future growth, sustainability, and economic wellbeing of Swellendam and its surrounding towns, we believe municipal officials entrusted with such significant responsibility should act impartially, professionally, and with a clear commitment to the best interests of the communities they serve.

It is deeply concerning to many residents that the current head of the Infrastructure Department is not a resident or taxpayer within the Swellendam Municipal area. While residency alone should not determine suitability for office, many community members feel that decisions affecting local growth and development are being made without sufficient understanding, accountability, or commitment to the long-term wellbeing of our municipal communities.

We therefore respectfully request that the Municipal Council:

1. Conduct an independent review into the conduct, decision-making, and performance of the Infrastructure Department leadership.
2. Engage directly with affected residents, developers, and stakeholders regarding these concerns.
3. Consider the removal or replacement of the current Infrastructure Department manager should the investigation confirm a continued breakdown in public trust and administrative fairness.
4. Commit to a more transparent, accountable, and development-friendly approach that supports sustainable growth across the Swellendam Municipal area.

This petition is submitted in the spirit of constructive engagement and with the sincere hope of restoring trust, fairness, and cooperation between the municipality and the communities it serves.

We believe Swellendam and its surrounding towns deserve leadership that encourages responsible development, economic growth, investment, and respectful engagement with all residents.

Signed:

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Name & Surname

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Town/Suburb

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Signature

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Date