The Problem Properties Draft by-law public hearing was held at the Civic Centre in Roodepoort on 16 November.
Ward councillors and members of the public were invited by Citizen Relationships and Urban Management (Crum) to discuss and debate the draft by-law, which revolves around ensuring legal compliance to the zero-tolerance policy regarding problem, dilapidated and hijacked buildings and properties in Johannesburg.
“According to Section 7 of the proposed by- law,” said Crum member Nathi Mthethwa (not to be confused with the national police minister of the same name), “any properties which have been slummed, abandoned, are overcrowded, vacant, poorly maintained and neglected by owners of legally or illegally occupied constitute problem properties.” These include buildings where infrastructure has collapsed due to neglect, causing deterioration; as well as buildings where rates, taxes and service charges are in arrears. Judgement regarding the status of such buildings with reference to the provisions of Section 7 of the proposed by-law will be made once sufficient information on the property is acquired. If this by-law takes effect, authorised officials will be able to inspect a property and issue and serve a notice of the intention to declare the property a “problem property” to the responsible parties who own or manage it. The fine schedule, which is currently under review, can cause these parties to be liable for fines up to R300 000.
Details: Crum member Nati Mthethwa
011 376 8512, nathim@joburg.org.za
