ZBRRA

Minutes of meeting - 1st July 2010

August 3rd, 2010

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                        Committee Meeting
Date & Time:                 1 July 2010 at 16:30
Venue:                          7 Idwala, home of Wendy Balcomb
Present                        Neil Wallace (Chair), Klaus Achtzehn, Glen Middleton, Richard Armstrong, Allan Werth (co-opted) Wendy Balcomb, Margo Thiel.
Apologies                      Nic Ellender
 
1.       The minutes of the meeting held in April 2010 were accepted.
 
2.       Financial report – Richard Armstrong
On behalf of the committee, Neil thanked Richard for all his hard work on the ZBRRA financial reports.
Richard reported that ZBRRA has contributed R65 000 to the Zinkwazi Neighbourhood Watch. It was agreed to save funds by dropping the extra guards for the September holiday period, as this is only truly necessary in December. This can be reviewed if required.
Financially, ZBRRA is on track to achieve its targets for the year. The Bats show raised R8270 and this will be used for the renovation of the fence around the village. The wire needed for the fence costs R6000. The contract with Ocean Echo for the fence has been renewed from 1 July at a marginally reduced cost.
 
3.       Neighbourhood Watch – Glen Middleton
From a crime perspective, June was a quiet month, except for one armed robbery which took place at Vilulae and a break-in at the hotel. ZBRRA is still waiting for Eskom to supply power for the lights at the entrance to the village.
 
4.       KDM report back – Wendy Balcomb
The recycling initiative is not working and needs to be stopped. KDM must clear the mound of material in Magai Drive and the young men must stop sorting through people’s rubbish. This is also a security risk.
The Forum needs to work together so that we have a stronger voice with KDM on issues such as water, roads, verges and the storm water drainage system.
 
5.       Membership
The committee is still trying to get answers from those members who ignore monthly statements for subscriptions. Neil is happy to phone those who haven’t paid and ask what it is about ZBRRA that they are dissatisfied with.
 
6.       Lease of Junction Offices
The ongoing uncertainty about the Junction offices needs to be resolved. Historically, the building belonged to the community, but in reality it belongs to the government and has been given to the community to be used for administration purposes only. The situation must be formalised so that the tenants can be secure and the environment can be controlled. The tenants should seek expert advice, possibly from Mike Heyns, and ZBRRA will work together with the anchor tenants as this matter is of severe concern and clarity is essential.
 
7.       65 Nkwazi Drive
The change in zoning from ‘special residential’ to ‘intermediate’ has been overturned, which is a victory for the town planning of Zinkwazi. The committee will explore setting up a Review Board consisting of Forum members to oversee guidelines on building restrictions and hold discussions with KDM when special applications are made.
 
8.       Notice Board and Website
The ZBRRA notice board is going well, and the committee would like to thank Nigel for his support with this. Wendy now has locks for the notice board so the content can be properly managed.
 
9.       General
Margo raised a concern about an attempt to sell a property on the corner of Nkwazi and Panorama Drives as a rezoned property. More details on this property are required.
The committee voted to award Wendy and the AIP staff an increase of 10% as it has been more than a year since this was done. A monthly salary of R9500 was agreed to for Wendy.
 
Margo said that people in the village are still asking about the recycling of house refuse. Alan stated that it is very difficult to make any money from recycling unless the project is sponsored by a large organization or residents were prepared to pay to fund the project. Wendy expressed her concern about the pile of bags at the municipal grounds, 147 Nkwazi dr, and that it is becoming a health and environmental problem. It was decided to ask KDM to tell the 2 men who are collecting the recyclable refuse to refrain from doing so until further notice.
 
 
 
Closure – the meeting ended at 19H30         
 
 
Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace - ZBRRA
 
 
Signed……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb – ZBRRA
 
 
ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                        Committee Meeting
Date & Time:                 1 July 2010 at 16:30
Venue:                          7 Idwala, home of Wendy Balcomb
Present                        Neil Wallace (Chair), Klaus Achtzehn, Glen Middleton, Richard Armstrong, Allan Werth (co-opted) Wendy Balcomb, Margo Thiel.
Apologies                      Nic Ellender
 
1.       The minutes of the meeting held in April 2010 were accepted.
 
2.       Financial report – Richard Armstrong
On behalf of the committee, Neil thanked Richard for all his hard work on the ZBRRA financial reports.
Richard reported that ZBRRA has contributed R65 000 to the Zinkwazi Neighbourhood Watch. It was agreed to save funds by dropping the extra guards for the September holiday period, as this is only truly necessary in December. This can be reviewed if required.
Financially, ZBRRA is on track to achieve its targets for the year. The Bats show raised R8270 and this will be used for the renovation of the fence around the village. The wire needed for the fence costs R6000. The contract with Ocean Echo for the fence has been renewed from 1 July at a marginally reduced cost.
 
3.       Neighbourhood Watch – Glen Middleton
From a crime perspective, June was a quiet month, except for one armed robbery which took place at Vilulae and a break-in at the hotel. ZBRRA is still waiting for Eskom to supply power for the lights at the entrance to the village.
 
4.       KDM report back – Wendy Balcomb
The recycling initiative is not working and needs to be stopped. KDM must clear the mound of material in Magai Drive and the young men must stop sorting through people’s rubbish. This is also a security risk.
The Forum needs to work together so that we have a stronger voice with KDM on issues such as water, roads, verges and the storm water drainage system.
 
5.       Membership
The committee is still trying to get answers from those members who ignore monthly statements for subscriptions. Neil is happy to phone those who haven’t paid and ask what it is about ZBRRA that they are dissatisfied with.
 
6.       Lease of Junction Offices
The ongoing uncertainty about the Junction offices needs to be resolved. Historically, the building belonged to the community, but in reality it belongs to the government and has been given to the community to be used for administration purposes only. The situation must be formalised so that the tenants can be secure and the environment can be controlled. The tenants should seek expert advice, possibly from Mike Heyns, and ZBRRA will work together with the anchor tenants as this matter is of severe concern and clarity is essential.
 
7.       65 Nkwazi Drive
The change in zoning from ‘special residential’ to ‘intermediate’ has been overturned, which is a victory for the town planning of Zinkwazi. The committee will explore setting up a Review Board consisting of Forum members to oversee guidelines on building restrictions and hold discussions with KDM when special applications are made.
 
8.       Notice Board and Website
The ZBRRA notice board is going well, and the committee would like to thank Nigel for his support with this. Wendy now has locks for the notice board so the content can be properly managed.
 
9.       General
Margo raised a concern about an attempt to sell a property on the corner of Nkwazi and Panorama Drives as a rezoned property. More details on this property are required.
The committee voted to award Wendy and the AIP staff an increase of 10% as it has been more than a year since this was done. A monthly salary of R9500 was agreed to for Wendy.
 
Margo said that people in the village are still asking about the recycling of house refuse. Alan stated that it is very difficult to make any money from recycling unless the project is sponsored by a large organization or residents were prepared to pay to fund the project. Wendy expressed her concern about the pile of bags at the municipal grounds, 147 Nkwazi dr, and that it is becoming a health and environmental problem. It was decided to ask KDM to tell the 2 men who are collecting the recyclable refuse to refrain from doing so until further notice.
 
 
 
Closure – the meeting ended at 19H30         
 
 
Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace - ZBRRA
 
 
Signed……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb – ZBRRA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Minutes of meeting - 22nd April, 2010

August 3rd, 2010

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION   MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                     Committee Meeting
Date & Time:             22nd April 2010
Venue:                        7 Idwala, home of W Balcomb - at 17H30
Present Neil Wallace (Chair), Klaus Achtzehn, Glen Middleton, Richard Armstrong, Nic Ellender, Allan Werth (co-opted) Wendy Balcomb.
Apologies Margo Thiel, Craig du Bernard
 
 
1          Minutes of meeting January 2010 were accepted
 
2          Neighbourhood Watch – Glen Middleton
Incidence of crime was improved since the arrest of some gang leaders. Holiday makers were still the major targets due to their careless habits on holiday. 
Richard said that due to the economy and several other factors several NW members who in the past made regular payment to the NW were not doing so.     JG,WHand GM had ‘knocked on doors’ and had a disappointing response from people who asked ‘what is in it for me’
ZBRRA was by far the largest contributor to the fund and the NW could not exist without ZBRRA. Neil stressed the need to limit the funding from ZBRRA to be for infrastructure and maintenance of the fence.
With another 6 months left till end of this financial year, ZBRRA had already contributed the same. RA said that amount as was contributed to NW for the whole of the past financial year – approx R48 thousand. Nic Ellender suggested fund raising by hosting an event.
RA said more needed to be done to raise funds and a good fund raiser was a golf day.
3          Financial report – R Armstrong
Richard said the financial position of ZBRRA was healthy with a surplus or R103 thousand. Most members paid up the full amount at the beginning of the year, several paid regularly on a monthly basis but there were 14 people on our books who would not payat all. Neil stressed that ZBRRA were prepared to pay for infrastructure costs. We did not want to get into the position where ZBRRA were spending more on security than the NW. Already R80,000.00 more will have been spent this year than last year.    Major expenses were WB salary and her motor vehicle costs and the ‘donation to security’ or contribution to ZNW for monthly fence maintenance, additional guards etc. The Eskom quote for connection of the new light at the entrance to the village and the deposit to be paid was more than R8000.00. The Ski Boat Club had offered to assist in payment of half of this. NW suggested that they pay the deposit and connection fee and ZBRRA pay for the ongoing cost of power to be supplied monthly. NW to speak to Nigel Simmonds about this.
4          Report back on KDM
Recent reports in NCC indicated that Louis Luyt was leading the Ratepayers in the Ballito area towards declaring a dispute with KDM to withholding rates. The committee were not in favour of this as ZBRRA had built up a good relationship with the officials in KDM and the situation was not hopeless as in some areas. Our local residents would not be in a position to run our own service delivery, and for that reason we should continue encouraging good relationships through communication. 
The new budget was out. WB to invited Clr Ann Mc Donelle (DA) to give us her view on the new budget.
AIP project still in progress with 3 new properties to be cleared and all owners of previously cleaned properties to be notified that from now on they were to pay for services..
WB has started making compost from garden refuse dropped off by garden services. Caretakers to be encouraged to do the same. WB to invite staff to a talk on same at nursery. Nursery needs to be extended to the east and fenced. Gary Prentice offered to supply poles and fencing. Indigenous trees to be grown on this land.
WB to enquire from Richard Penn Sawers if registration of nursery is necessary.
 
5          Membership
Approximately 30 of the 189 members ignore monthly statements for subs. It was decided that the committee were to assist Wendy by phoning those who had not paid at all. Wendy is to give each of the committee a list of names with contact details.
Nic suggested that some members would not mind paying double the annual subs of R1200 as this had not been increased in 6 years. Another list to be drawn up of those who pay readily and for the members to be asked how they feel about the increased subs.
 
6          Role of Chairman
Neil said that at the last AGM he had announced that this was his last year but since he may be living in Zinkwazi from June, he would be available should there be no other offers and the committee wish him to continue for a further year. It was important to have a chairman who was not involved commercially in the village and one who could stand above the pettiness of local politics. The committee welcomed Neil’s offer
 
7          Lease of Junction Offices
WB had written to Darren van Rensberg stressing the urgency for a lease for the Junction offices where conflict had recently resulted due to lack thereof.  
Neil to write a formal letter to KDM
 
8          65 Nkwazi dr – adoption to be overturned.
A notice from KDM was posted on the verge of 65 Nkwazi dr proposed to overturn the previous adoption of a change in zoning from ‘special residential’ to ‘intermediate’ for the lagoon front property. Adjacent property owners had been to the high court to ensure this. Letters from ZBRRA and Zinkwazi Conservancy had been written to KDM in support of the amendment - ie in support of only ‘special residential’ zoning being retained in this area.
 
9          Notice Board and Website
In accordance with a request from G Barnard (acting manager of the Junction) the ZBRRA notice was to be removed and all future ZBRRA notices to be placed on a board at the entrance to the Junction offices. Since this new board has not yet been erected it has been decided that WB is to move the old aluminium board to a suitable place in the parking area and to once more make use of it for ZBRRA news.
The Website is updated periodically but not used enough by members
 
10        General
Basket sellers from Manguzi visit seasonally to sell baskets and their accommodation has been the property on cnr of Seagull and Nkwazi dr and more recently they and their children have taken up residence in the Municipal yard. Several complaints from local residents in the area.
Richard asked why the basket sellers had been permitted to sleep in the municipal building at 145 Nkwazi dr. WB replied that through intervention of Cnl Pakkies the KDM had been persuaded to do this but that Billy of Parks had said that once Nico Maree was back from leave it was understood that they would be evicted as he had made it clear that this was illegal. WB to write letter to NM asking for clarification on the legality of this.
Signage AllEstate agents ‘for sale’ boards had been removed by agents when they heard that their illegal signage was to be confiscated by KDM. The village is looking neater and many complimentary remarks indicated that residents do not want signage. For sale on vacant land only is permissible through application. No ‘sold’ signs are permissible.
Several letters received indicating that the recent large boards erected at the Junction are displeasing to the community. WB to ask Tarvesh of KDM to visit the Junction and to assist the tenants to be complaint in this.
Street lights Glen was thanked for the very difficult task of marking street lights which were malfunctioning. WB reported these regularly to Eskom.
Budget Nic said that in the past the TLC were granted money for the Conservancy from the budget. He suggested that ZBRRA request money this month for Security and Conservation (AIP project) to be set aside for this in the Municipal budget. Neil added that water reticulation, storm water, road and street light upgrade should be included.
Thanks Neil thanked Allan Werth for his constructive ideas and encouraged him to be involved in reporting beach problems as he often visits the beach. Allan offered his wife, Sarah’s services as an editor.
 
Closure – the meeting ended at 19H30         
 
 
Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace - ZBRRA
 
 
Signed……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb – ZBRRA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Minutes of ZBRRA AGM - Dec 17th 2009

April 11th, 2010

 

 
ZINKWAZI BEACH RESIDENTS AND RATEPAYERS ASSOCIATION.
 
Minutes of the AGM held at the Darnall Country Club on Thursday Dec 17th 2009 at
17h30.
 
1)       Welcome and Apologies:
a)       Neil Wallace welcomed all members and guests present and thanked them for attending.
b)       32 apologies were recorded.
c)       28 members signed the attendance register and there were 3 visitors. The attendance register is attached to the minutes.
2)       A quorum was established as per attendance register.
3)        Minutes of the 2008 AGM were electronically circulated to the members. These minutes had been approved by the sitting committee, and accepted as a true reflection of proceedings by the members present.
4)       Matters Arising from these minutes will be addressed under the Agenda today.
i)         The only outstanding matter was the proposed meetings with other Ratepayer’s Associations had not been frequent enough as both parties had very busy agendas. It was hoped that the situation would improve in 2010.
5)       Chairman’s Report:
i)         Local government: If anything, it had become more difficult to work with local Government. Very few successes have been achieved and it is very difficult to get an acceptable standard of service delivery. It was found to be essential that the village “speak with one voice”.
ii)       Engela Wuim and Wendy Balcomb are the Ward Reps which enables better communications with the local authorities. They are to be commended for their ongoing efforts on our behalf to get service delivery affected.
iii)      Zinkwazi Forum: This body brings together the different bodies active in the village. It is essential that the Forum go to government as a united body represented by: ZBRRA, Ward Representatives, The Ski-boat Club, the Neighborhood Watch and the re-established Conservancy.
The Chairman reported that all groups were doing well in their own area of responsibility. The Forum would tackle key issues like water supply etc. Relations with management personell at Ilembe and Kwa Dukuza are good. The key factor is to know who to call and who to talk to. ZBRRA has acted as the coordinating body which has enabled the Forum to operate effectively
iv)      Development has outstripped the pace of infrastructure installation in the area and long term water supply is a huge problem. The old reticulation system was faulty and frequent pipe bursts resulted in large amounts of water being lost.
v)        The forum confronted Ilembe with this and after threatening to declare a dispute they agreed to replace and modernize the system.. The village now has a two ring water reticulation system. The water pressure has also been reduced and new water meters have been installed. There is still more work to be done in this area and the storage is still a problem. Conditions could be improved if residents installed their own water tanks and rain water harvesting storage tanks.     Next year emphasis will be placed on getting sufficient water storage capacity to service the community at peak times. Increase investment will be partially motivated on the fire emergency needs in the village. This is a 2 -3 year programme. The committee plan to motivate for the replacement of additional old water pipes in the new year.   The meeting was reminded by Martin Finch that warnings regarding the looming water shortage were given years ago but fell on deaf ears. The Chairman said it had taken a long time for the authorities to admit that there were problems, which they have now done, and it is hoped that these would now be attended to. It appeared that development and delivery of services was totally uncoordinated.   Thanks were expressed to Engela Wuim for her work with Umgeni Water and Ilembe and the successes she has achieved. Wendy Balcomb and her ZBRRA office was also thanked for her work in this area.
vi)      Security: ZBRRA continued to pay for security infrastructure such as fence repair and maintenance as well as extra guards over peak season. Some reserve funds have been earmarked for enhancing  the security infrastructure.
vii)     Commercial Development: the current tenants of the Junction were enjoying new premises which had been upgraded by G Barnard. No formal lease with KDM existed despite many requests. The Chairman urged the community to support the shops. The Office section of the building includes the ZBRRA office and this is used as Wendy’s office as well as a meeting place for the committee and local government contact meetings.    Debbie Finch identified that she was totally opposed to any Off Licence licence in the village and this was widely supported from the floor. With regard to a “Grocers Wine License”, the Chairman confirmed that he had heard mention of this.  Allan Werth wanted it minuted that he was totally against the granting of such a license in the village. The Chairman undertook to look into this issue in the new year and report back on his findings.
6)       Admin Managers Report.
a)       Wendy reported the following: clarity was given regarding the responsible of local authorities in the village. 
i)         Roads:   P403 Darnall to Zinkwazi is the NPA’s responsibility. Zinkwazi village roads fall under the Civils Dept. of Kwa Dukuza, arguably the most inefficient department of all. 
ii)       Burst Pipes are Ilembe’s responsibility. They have outsourced the repair of their excavations to a new contractor – no longer KDM Civils. Repairs to the roads within the village were the responsibility of KDM civils dept.
iii)      Verges: these are not a resident’s property, and should be kept free for pedestrian movement.   Building materials should be stored within a property. Money paid by the contractor to the local authority is for the contractor to traverse the verge into the property, not to store materials on the verge. Contractor’s fee is repayable once all building material is removed.
iv)      Waste Materials: Residents were encouraged to support the newly established recycling programme. Tin, plastic and glass should be placed in a separate bag alongside normal refuse on a Monday and Thursday. Bags of a different colour would be available later in the year. M & N (Mari) was contracted by KDM to cut verges and parks in the village and were doing so effectively. Garden services contracted by residents were often responsible for leaving piles of garden cuttings on verges. Residents were encouraged to ensure that they removed this and not leave it for extended periods.    Ocean Eco has a policy of removal of all their cuttings on the day of cutting. 
v)        Beach Repair: All allocated monies have been spent. A contract has been allocated to build a new conservancy tank for the beach toilets. This will take place in the New Year. A walk way and lights will be forthcoming when funds are made available.
vi)      Signage: has been requested of Steve Honeysett of Beaches to indicate access to and from the beach.
vii)     Parking: there are 22 bays short after the reconstruction of the parking at the beach and it is proposed to use the south verge of Nkwazi Dr. for this purpose when monies become available.
viii)   Beach Cleaning. One permanent and one temp unit of labour have the responsibility of Black Rock park and other parks. Three permanents from KDM clean beaches and an additional 4 will be engaged over the peak season. The Ski boat Club is responsible for the control and cleaning of the main parking area, for which they collect a toll fee in peak season. Concern was expressed from the floor that the southern beaches were not being cleaned. Wendy asked that when this was found it must be reported to her so that she could see that the cleaners were properly directed
ix)     Electricity/Street Lights: Glen Middleton was thanked for his proactive efforts in marking faulty street lights for Eskom. Manager Wilson Govender was aware which lights were still to be repaired.    Wendy stated that all HOD she works will are very pleasant and helpful, but were restrained by staffing capacity, Union issues and incompetence.
x)       Communications, General Newsletter and Website: these channels are used for non commercial purposes of communication for the community.. Letters and minutes are posted on the website and ZNH, Ski boat club events, Conservancy and ZBRRA matters are circulated.
xi)     Nursery: Indigenous plants are available for sale as of 18th Dec 2009. Cicely Armstrong mentioned that the trees planted by Wendy’s conservancy staff were thriving. Thanks were also expressed to the Parks department for their generous donation of trees.
 
7)       Financials: Ian Masson reported that the Financial report had been e-mailed to all members. He highlighted the following points:
a)       Surplus for 2009 was R12, 000.00 – down from R60, 000.00 in ‘08
b)       Membership fees in 2009 - R211, 000.00 up from R209, 000.00 in’ 08.
c)       Expenses in 2009 – R218, 000.00 up from R188, 000.00 in ‘08
d)       Admin costs are the largest expenditure at R93,800.00. Security donation was R49,000
e)       Surplus carried forward from end October 2009 – R190, 000.00
 
8)        Election of Committee Members.
Ian Masson and Rob Hofmeyr are not available for re-election. The Chairman thanked then both very much for all their contribution of time, effort and expertise. Glen Middleton has been seconded on to the committee as has Wendy Balcomb. The chairman of the committee will be elected at the first meeting of the new year. There are some portfolio changes. The chairman invited younger members of the community to step forward to serve on the committee.
The committee was re-elected.
 
A question from the floor (Cliff Hat) asked if there was any plan should an emergency occur in the village. James Gilleran replied that the ZNW sheet of emergency telephone numbers available.   In the case of fire, it would take the Kwa Dukuza Fire Brigade 15 to 20 minutes to respond (Richard Armstrong). Sugar Bay are fundraising to buy a AED device for heart attack victims and if there is enough funding a second one will be bought to be placed at the Life Savers Office on the beach.
The chairman encouraged all home owners to have their own fire extinguishers.
 
9)   Closure The Chairman, Mr Wallace handed over the meeting to Klaus Achtzehn - Chairman of the Conservancy.

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Minutes of meeting - 28th,Jan 2010

April 11th, 2010

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION   MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                     Committee Meeting
Date & Time:             28th January 2010
Venue:                        33 Magai dr – home of N Wallace - at 17H30
Present Neil Wallace (Chair), Klaus Achtzehn,  Margo Thiel, Craig du Bernard, Glen Middleton, Richard Armstrong, Wendy Balcomb.
 
The ZBRRA meeting formed a part of the Zinkwazi Forum meeting which was prior to the Zbrra meeting.
 
1          Security. Francois Snyman has resigned as from end of January from Alpha. He has assured the committee that he would continue to be of assistance at anytime and would remain in the village.
Crime through the holiday season was bad. Holiday makers were targeted. New Year’s day was better controlled than previous years, thanks to the co-operation of KDM Protection services and an increased presence of SAPS officials, who checked vehicles for alcohol at the entrance to the village.   Broken glass on the beach and in the streets after New year’s day is a matter of concern. James Gilleran stressed the need for a satellite station in the village. Speed calming humps are to be constructed at the entrance to the village and around Leonotis park. These would be funded by Gary Prentice and supervised by the NW.
 
2          Ski Boat Club. 
2 (i)Lagoon Access. Nigel Simmonds stated that the Ski boat club was not licensed to launch on the river. KDM held the license for launches to sea and by default covered the launches on the river. 
Klaus said that the KDM did not have formal rights to the lagoon. New legislation is expected shortly to clarify this. 
2 (ii)Signage. Steve Honeysett has promised this but to date none is forthcoming.
2 (iii) Parking tickets. Nigel said that KDM no longer sold booklets of tickets at a discount so that the Ski boat club could make some profit. One of the gate guards had disappeared with the takings in the holidays so this was a loss. 
2 (iv) Discs for entry. Those provided by KDM gave access to all beach in the municipal area and not specifically for Zinkwazi. Nigel to investigate selling through Ski Boat club beach access discs for Zinkwazi.
2 (v) Membership of ZBRRA. Nigel said that the club would not join as a member but it was left to the individual members of the Ski boat club to join as individuals.
2 (vi) The Ski boat club and the KDM will jointly intend to upgrade the toilets on the beach. Until then the 2 inside toilets are reserved for use by ladies and the public toilets on the beach are used by men. 
2 (vii) Social membership is R500 per annum
2 (viii) To launch a boat on the lagoon, one must be a member. Holiday launches to be arranged through Frikkie. 
2 (ix) Functions. The Ski boat club intends holding a fund raiser monthly. Proceeds from a Friday night dinner would be dedicated to a chosen beneficiary. 
 
3          Water
Engela said that water problems were better this holiday season as no water outages thanks to good communication with iLembe and Umgeni, an additional borehole – no 5 which yields more than the others, and effective water restrictions.
Improved storage of water is essential as we do not have 48 hours of storage capacity for an emergency.
New fire hydrants have been installed in the village. Should a fire break out the supply of water would be inadequate. KDM to be advised of this and the construction of an additional reservoir recommended The replacement of old reticulation pipes was only partially completed by Joat for iLembe. Additional replacement of reticulation pipes to be encouraged. iLembe have replaced most of the old meters.
Nigel Simmonds said that iLembe were to meet with the Darnall Mill to discuss the Tugela pipeline. The Blythedale pipeline is much closer to completion. The TH mill has to date supplied iLembe with water for the area but this arrangement is not ideal. N Wallace thanked Engela once more for her efforts in managing the wate issues of the village. iLembe had agreed to the lifting of restrictions. W B to ask them to replace the posters with others to thank community for conserving water and to once more urge them to report to the call centre any leaks. The number of the centre to be on the posters.
 
4          Service delivery.
 iLembe. Burst and leaks still occur and are reported to the call centre.   Another ‘grey water problem at 145 Nkwazi dr. Several reports sent to iLembe and request to block off this conservancy tank since tests with dye proved it did not come from adjacent residences.
Through posters, the community have been encouraged to report leaks directly to the call centre. Wendy stated that KDM had sub contracted another company to make good iLembe excavations (on Shelley, High street and end of Panorama) as they could not cope with the volume of work. Rob Hofmeyr asked that Nollie Rabie ensure us that the new contractors is accredited, since the work on his servitude has not yet been completed and is still considered a ‘temp’ job by N Rabie of Civils. 
KDM – A list of our grievances is to be drawn up for Mayor Thulani Khuluzu of non performance of several deparments, particularly Civils. Storm water drains, eroded roads, servitude problems, curbing and drains not attended to. 
Beaches. Several complaints since the holiday season of dirty southern beaches. Billy reported staff problems
A poverty relief programme is to be implemented which will bring more staff onto the beaches temporally. 
Parks – thanks to Che for more trees and ZBRA to plant red milkwoods in BRPark. When these are established it is hoped to remove the alien trees.
Refuse – Recycling by XS continues. Dump at Darnall is to the satisfaction of Cnl Pakkies who has said that recycling is to her project under her Youth programme. Lucky Zulu urged to get plastic bags for recycling to Zinkwazi
 
5          Conservancy
Klaus said that the greater Zinkwazi area was one of 10 to be accepted as qualifying for stewardship. Ezemvelo were aware of the threat to the coastal areas. A high level of people have been tasked to deal with this issue. Funds are to be made available by Evemvelo – R600,000 over 3 years - for the protection and support of these threatened areas. This would encourage the type of eco-tourism Zinkwazi wants
Cliff Hatt was elected by the Conservancy committee as functions co-ordinator. He would organize regular functions and outings for the community.
Dumisane – one of the two AIP workers is trained to take groups on trails for birding. His fee is R200 for 3 and an additional R100 per person thereafter for a 3 hour walk. 
Nursery toilet to be constructed shortly. This could be a useful venue for functions for the community.
Nursery is progressing well and some sales were made over the holiday season.
 
6          Office bearers
 
The following were elected to office
Chairman – N Wallace – proposed by K Achtzehn, seconded by W Balcomb
Vice Chairman - none available
Treasurer – R Armstrong – proposed by N Wallace, seconded by M Thiel
Conservancy – K Achtzehn – proposed by R Armstrong, seconded by G Middelton
Security – Glenn Middleton – proposed by N Wallace and seconded by C du Bernard
Committee members – Craig du Bernard, Margo Thiel, Nic Ellender.
Neil to ask Allan Werth if he would like to be a co-opted member of the committee. Rob Hofmeyr agreed to remain on the committee as a co-opted member
 
 
Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace - ZBRRA
 
 
Signed……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb – ZBRRA
 
 

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Minutes of meeting - 22nd October, 2009

April 11th, 2010

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION   MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                     Committee Meeting
Date & Time:             22nd October, 2009
Venue:                        ZBRRA office – Junction - at 16H00
Present Neil Wallace (Chair), Klaus Achtzehn, Nic Ellender, Margo Thiel, Ian Masson,  Richard Armstrong, Craig du Bernard, Glen Middleton, Wendy Balcomb.
 
 
1          Neil welcomed everyone to the first meeting in our new premises, and thanked Nic Ellender for the computer/modem hardware which he has loaned us to enable us to function.  Ian Masson was thanked for the table and chairs he donated to the office and nursery. Craig was thanked for installing the burglar bars purchased from his Steelworks.
Apologies: Rob Hofmeyr
 
2          Signing of Minutes of 27nd July meeting. These were approved and signed by N Wallace
 
3 i        Report back on KDM Service delivery – WB
Wendy reviewed the performance of various departments of KDM and Ilembe
·       The existing arrangement whereby KDM Civils are tasked to make good iLembe excavations is still not working. WB to write to both Nollie Rabie and Mike Newton to point out the unfinished business.
·       Parks/Beaches dept – Black Rock park now has a boom. Leonatis park a problem to residents in Glen dr. Wooden posts installed to prevent cars driving close to houses. This was carried out by N Nel and paid for by G Prentice, who has also offered to install speed humps in the area. Several complaints about debris left by fishermen on the beach. The main beach car park is still incomplete. A letter and photos was sent to Carlos Mendes and Simon Bundy to remind them of the following :-
·       No lights, walkway, conservancy tank and insufficient planting to hold the bank. S Bundy immediately introduced additional plants. Mr Peter Latter has offered to donate a bench for the landing above the staircase but this cannot be installed until the paving is complete. 
 
·       NPA. Letters are sent regularly to Mawande and Mr Maharaj reminding them of the danger the P403 poses without lines. Nic reported that his wife had a near accident as a result. Letter of complaint to be sent to WB to forward to NPA. NPA promise that when the R102 is completed the P403 will be marked of noSoil piled up against the crash bar and dumped old tar to be removed before the P403 can be considered repaired.
 
·       Eskom – Nic stated that Kingfisher drive still in darkness. He is to write a letter which will be forwarded to Eskom, explaining the situation at Nkwazi/Kingfisher.   Craig D. B to approach Brandon, the technician who carries out the work to encourage him to attend to Zinkwazi’s needs which are regularly reported to Wilson Govender.
 
3 ii       New office.
Office is functional. Burglar bars are to be painted same colour as the walls at the request of G Barnard. Neil hoped that exposure to the public would encourage more members. Wendy said that most her passing trade were residents who visit the physio. 
Discussion followed with regard to the lease of the building. The building belongs to ‘the community’ and not to KDM. The lease is held by one of the tenants. Ideally this should be held by KDM. This would be problematic as no commercial zoning for the building exists, and if it were to be zoned commercial the rental would be too expensive for most tenants Craig believes that KDM would be pleased to cede the lease and the management to a neutral body such as ZBRRA as the intention of the donor was for it to be for the community. Neil stated that all discussion with regard to this proposal must be transparent and involved the tenants of the Junction.
Michael Hands to be consulted on the Junction
The ‘temporary’ use of residential property for commercial was discussed at 78 Nkwazi dr. Neil to ask Fish Eagle when their lease with Mr Honey expires and when the ‘temporary’ use is over.
 
4          Zinkwazi Neighbourhood Watch          
 
Richard said that the Bats function was a great success and they enrolled a few more members as a result. The profit for the ZNW from the function was R5900.
Sufficient funds in the account for the next 6 months but expect more money shortly to come from renewal of annual subs. In August there were 5 incidents but in September crime increased dramatically with the holiday season. Several incidents where electronic goods were successfully stolen. 
Residents were to report seeing any of the 3 vehicles:- Old shape silver Mercedes, ND 371167, a white Volvo NX1493 and a red city golf – normally with 4 black passengers. 
Francois Snyman of Alpha’s emergency number to be noted for a quick response. 0829457183
Steve Honeysett has still not put up signage for Black Rock Park to indicate that the park will be locked overnight. Boom has been installed and is locked nightly by Alpha guards. Boom was recently damaged but is being repaired and replaced by culprit.
The electric fence radios which are responsible for signal on 4 different sectors need to be repaired. Nic to discuss the technicalities of this with James Gilleran and what is necessary to replace.
Zbrra requested and agreed to pay for  additional 2 guards through December holidays.
Glen Middleton reported that a Community Watch was to be initiated at Port Shephstone to which ZNW were invited. He is to attend and suggested that J Gilleran and R Armstrong join him. A speaker would outline how all the community, including domestic staff , gardeners and caretakers can play a role to improve the communication and therefore the prevention of crime in Zinkwazi.
 
5          Conservancy
Klaus reported that the new Coatal Management Plan which is to be phased in could replace the present ‘town planning’ scheme of KDM. This would be more effective in protection of our towns and surrounding sensitive eco areas. 
The R600 thousand available from Working for the Coast for Zinkwazi will enable us to take ownership of the project. The funds are to be used for the creation and upgrade of trails, their maintenance for access to the beaches, possible whale watching platforms, bird hides etc. Evemvelo would implement the programme but the work would be awarded to subcontractors. Hopefully Dumisane our present AIP worker could continue with this work as such a contractor. Dumisane has completed the Birdlife course and his self study is to be evaluated next month.
AIP work under two staff continues. The nursery is coming to fruition. A toilet is being built to facilitate function at the hangar. We are grateful for the donation from Kim Haggeman of a 10000L Jo-jo tank. This has been installed and provides additional water to the 2000 L tank donated by G Prentice. 
 
6          Finance – Ian Masson
Ian said that he would like to resign as treasurer at the end of this financial year from. Richard will replace Neil as Treasurer. All conservancy/nursery costs incurred within the village are paid by ZBRRA. They are recorded in a separate ledger account.
Ken McQuade has agreed to compile our end of year financial statements
 
 
 
 
7          Membership
All current members, except for Iam Masson were prepared to stay on the committee for a further term of office. Neil said this would be his final year as Chairman. He stressed the need for younger office bearers.
Membership to be encouraged by offering to owners of vacant properties our AIP service for 6 months at a discounted rate if they joined ZBRRA. Pensioners and those on a fixed income were eligible for a 50% discount by applying to WB.
A membership drive is necessary. 
AGM – to be planned for Thursday, 17th December at Darnall club. Committee encouraged to stay on for drinks in the bar and to speak to membership.
 
8          Closure
The meeting closed at 18H30. Next meeting will be held before the AGM
 
 
Signed ……………………………        N. Wallace
                                                            Chairman
 
 
………………………………….          W Balcomb
Admin manager

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Minutes of Meeting - July 09

July 29th, 2009

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION   MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                     Committee Meeting
Date & Time:             27nd July, 2009
Venue:                        7 Idwala Lodge at 15H00
Present Neil Wallace (Chair), Rob Hofmeyr, Klaus Achtzehn, Nic Ellender, Margo Thiel, Ian Masson,  Richard Armstrong, Wendy Balcomb.
Co-opted member Glen Middleton
 
1          Neil welcomed everyone especially Glen Middleton.
Apologies: Craig du Bernard
 
2          Signing of Minutes of 22nd April meeting. These were approved would be signed by N Wallace
 
3 i        Report back on KDM Service delivery – WB
Wendy reviewed the performance of various departments of KDM and Ilembe
·       The existing arrangement whereby KDM Civils are tasked to make good iLembe excavations is not working. WB to set up meeting between MM Mike Newton and Nollie Rabie of Civils
·       Parks/Beaches dept – Che Gophi & Billy Cullen – good supportive relationship. WB to encourage Parks to investigate means of minimizing loads of garden refuse being removed from village – chipper.
·       NPA. Letters are sent regularly to ensure P403 maintained. Marking yet to be done and soil at edges removed
·       Eskom – good relationship and response from Steven Naidoo when street lights faulty
 
3 ii       New office.
Table and desk were purchased from Dales Dbn for office. 
Ian Masson donated a plastic 8 seater table and chairs for meetings. Request to be sent to committee for tea set, curtains and cloth for table.
WB will move into office on approx. 14th August. Posters for walls to be framed. 
WB has appealed to Cheryl Peters of KDM Tourism for support to create a Tourism kiosk
 
4          Zinkwazi Neighbourhood Watch
Richard said that crime had increased by 18% when comparing the first six months of 2008 with the first six months of 2009 in last few months. Meeting with Alpha shortly. The trend seems to be that holiday makers are targeted soon after arrival. 
Fence maintenance is now carried out by Tim-Wise (E Rosati) and first month was well done. First payment by ZBRRA - R2000 made July 09.
Falling casurina branches/trees between fence and private property a problem. It ws decided not to remove these as too expensive.
Suggestion that more information should be made available and circulated by ZNW to residents to keep them informed as to incidents which occur in the village.
5          Conservancy
Klaus reported that Dumisane’s 3 week birding course was a great success and that he would be exposed to other eco-tourist experiences by mentors in the area to broaden his knowledge and prepare him as a tour guide. WB initiated funding by KDM of one unit of labour for AIP work in Zinkwazi under WB supervision. – Pakkies to meet with Che Gophi and to put this as item through council
Dumi and Wiseman still clearing properties of aliens under WB supervision. 33 properties to date cleared. WB having trouble getting accurate contact details of owners from KDM
Nursery land acquired as sub-lease from Mr. Clewlow at R400 p.a. WB waiting to hear from KDM if they will donate poles for shade house. Shade cloth to be donated by H Balcomb. Cracked 10 thousand litre Jo-jo tank offered by Kim Haggeman to be moved to nursery and tested/repaird by Nic Ellender.   Craig du Bernard to donate a gate for nursery, Klaus to supervise construction of an eco friendly toilet.
Working for the Coast -
From Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, approx 350 thousand rand will be available, from July 09, over the next 3 years, for Zinkwazi area for the maintenance of beaches, access, cleaning, improvements and upkeep of trails, AIP removal, etc. 
Stewardship. A meeting has been arranged in Hilton with the stewardship program manager from EKZN Widlife; Kevin McCann , Wildlands Trust CEO; Andrew Venter and the conservancy committee, Klaus, Neil and Bing  to discus next steps in achieving conservation of our valuable Indigenous forest and bush environments through the stewardship program..
 
It was suggested that ZBRRA host a social evening where Mr Warren Clewlow be invited to speak on business and the future of SA.
 
6          Finance – Ian Masson
Ian said that our finances were in a healthy state. About 200 thousand rand in bank.
R7000 from AIP was coming in and WB expected to break even on project as we did last year.
Membership status. Appox 12 thousand rand membership fees outstanding which included the monthly payments. Some members ignore statements and letters sent monthly. 
WB to draw up list of offenders and distribute to committee to phone individuals.
 
7          Membership
It was agreed that the committee should include more young members of the community
There is a need on the committee for someone with expertise in building or law to assist with controversial issues related to possible inappropriate building. KDM town planning not enforcing their building regulations.
Membership to be encouraged by offering to owners of vacant properties our AIP service for 6 months at a discounted rate if they joined ZBRRA. Pensioners and those on a fixed income were eligible for a 50% discount by applying to WB.
A membership drive is necessary. 
To promote ZBRRA by communicating the benefit of belonging. 
Increased visibility necessary.
Improved website with more photographs.
A flyer to be made and distributed promoting ZNW and ZBRRA separately – suggestions from Theresa Jackson on how to do this 
A public meeting to be held at end of August for all residents
 
8          Closure
The meeting closed at 5pm. Next meeting will be held in September
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signed ……………………………        N. Wallace
                                                            Chairman
 
 
………………………………….          W Balcomb
Admin manager

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Minutes of meeting - April 22nd, 2009

May 18th, 2009

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION   MINUTES OF MEETING

 
Meeting:                     Committee Meeting
Date & Time:             22nd April, 2009
Venue:                        7 Idwala Lodge

Present Neil Wallace (Chair), Klaus Achtzehn, Nic Ellender, Craig du Bernard, Margo Thiel, Ian Masson, Wendy Balcomb.

Co-opted members: James Gilleran (Security) E Wium (Ward 2)

Apologies: R Hofmeyr, R. Armstrong

 

2          Signing of Minutes of AGM December 08. These were approved would be signed by N Wallace

 

3          Office bearers. N Wallace agreed to stay on as Chairman, Rob Hofmeyr had confirmed that he would continue to serve as Vice Chairman until a replacement could be found, Ian Masson would remain the treasurer.

 
4          Forum review. 

i)          Engela Wium as ward Chairperson, is to communicate with iLembe and to ask for the minutes of the March meeting where Notha Mapumulo of iLembe undertook to replace all reticulation pipes. iLembe would be requested to name a date whereby work would commence and be completed. Relevant engineering plans and documents would be requested for Nic Ellender (engineer) to review.

ii)         The resolution of the Forum meeting held prior to the ZBRRA meeting was endorsed by the ZBRRA meeting. i.e. that the Mayor of KDM and the Municipal Mayor were to be advised that their employee Mr Phiri had not attended to the New Year problems made known to him and to the non-delivery of services over the past two years. They would be asked to take over the responsibilities of Mr Phiri since he is never available to do so.

(This letter was sent by email to KDM Mayor, KDM MM, Clr A Mc Donelle, Madam Speaker V Luthuli on 29th April 09)

iii) Parking for the beach. Modified plans that the toilets on the beach remain and the septic tank system be replaced were accepted by the Forum. The conservancy to draft a letter to this effect to Bing Comrie who would forward it to relevant departments.

(Letter sent by email  to Bing Comrie for the Beach restoration team,  on 29th April)

iv)Ski boat club.

 Nigel is to compile relevant information regarding ROD of Ski Boat club to make available to visitors. Beach and Boating regulations should be displayed and included on the ZBRRA website

 
6          Conservancy

Klaus stressed the importance of the conservancy in consolidating the eco-tourism of our area. Birding tours, visits to historical battle fields and areas of Biodiversity interest are suitably situated for daily excursions. Klaus reported that funding was available from iLembe to train two guides to work in our area for the conservancy. Tour group operators are to be encouraged to service our area.

 
7          Membership

Since the closure of the Nkwazi News, our association no longer has exposure to the community

Neil stressed the need to encourage more members to join. To encourage the growth of membership our achievements are to be made known to the greater community through email to members and non-members. He stressed the need to include younger people on the committee. Craig explained that Zinkwazi has a largely an ageing community of retired people who may have the expertise but did not want to be committed to as office bearers on committees. Expertise could be co-opted onto the committee without them becoming members. 

The membership fee is flexible and can be reduced for pensioners and those on a fixed income who could not afford the full fee.  

Wendy to arrange a social evening and report back for members and interested Zinkwazi residents to take place in July at Lagoon lodge

 
8          Closure: 
The meeting ended at 6.45pm.
 
 

The next forum meeting will be in April on a date to be decided.

 
 

Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace

 
 
 
 ……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb

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Minutes of meeting - 12th Feburary 2009

March 29th, 2009

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION   MINUTES OF MEETING

 
Meeting:                     Committee Meeting

Date & Time:             Thursday, 12th Februaty, 2009

Venue:                        7 Idwala Lodge

Present

Neil Wallace (Chair), Rob Hofmeyr, Klaus Achtzehn, Richard Armstrong, Nic Ellender, Craig du Bernard, Wendy Balcomb.

Co-opted members: James Gilleran (Security) E Wium (Ward 2) Jenny Rutledge (Blythedale)

Apologies: Margo Thiel, Ian Masson, Nigel Simmonds (Ski Boat Club)

 
 

1.        Neil welcomed visitors Engela Wium and Jenny Rutledge (of Blythedale village)

 

2          Approval of AGM minutes to be postponed to next meeting.

3          Confirmation of Office Bearers to be postponed to next meeting

 
4          Role of Ward

Since issues of common concern were shared by both ZBRRA and the Ward 2 sub area committee, Engela and Wendy were in agreement that resolutions to issues could be arrived at in a common forum – alleviating the need for a second meeting and additional administration. Should any specific issues relating to either sector need discussion, this could take place either before or after the forum or at a separate meeting.

Nigel Simmons was agreeable to represent the Ski Boat club at all future meetings. James would represent the Neighbourhood Watch. The Conservancy would continue to be managed by ZBRRA and would form part of the forum.

 
5          Beach Restoration.

As promised by Carolos Mendes, iLembe had contracted work to begin by the end of February. This is in progress. Engela said that Bing Comrie was to oversee the work. Her concern was that none of the adjacent property owners had been consulted as promised by Hantie Plomp. Wendy to contact Hantie.

The Ski Boat club has a change of Chairman. Nigel Simmonds, the new Chairman has expressed the wish to attend or meetings.

 
6          iLembe. 

Water reticulation issues need resolution. Ilembe, like KDM have not responded to the needs of Zinkwazi. It was decided to target specific issues in declaring a dispute - the most necessary being water supply. Declaring a dispute is expensive and time consuming. It is hoped that once we have made our intentions clear to the local authority services may improve and it may not be necessary. Other departments may also improve their services if our intentions are made clear.

 
The committee supported Engela’s suggestions in a letter to ZBRRA as follows:

‘A meeting should be held with Notha and Seshan of iLembe with the following demands:

1          A entire new reticulation system.

a.       This reticulation system should have the following:

                                                               i.      Sensors so ILembe can determine when there is a leak and where.

                                                             ii.      Control valves, so that the leaks can easily be isolated for repairs

b.       A date of completion.

c.       The contract is to awarded to Umgeni whose track record was proved to be good.

2          Thus we meet, read our demands, give them an ultimatum. Thereafter we declare a dispute’

 

Neil W is to seek legal advice after consulting with other Ratepayers Assoc. advice, D Smith and Lillian Devali, inorder to draft a legal letter specifically for Zinkwazi based on

·       Clearly identified problem

·       Citing responsible authorities

·       Notify the local authority of our intention

·       Allow for retraction of needs are satisfied

·        

Rob Hofmeyr suggested that since iLembe had a change of staff, we should have a meeting with them and give the new heads of departments a chance to make good their intentions.

 

7          New Year and related festive season problems.

 

Jenny Rutledge, of Mini Villas, Blythedale was been badly affected by disturbance over festive season and has ongoing weekend disturbance, has submitted a 73 page document to the minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs -   MEC M Mabuyakhulu

MEC for Housing, Local Government and Traditional Affairs

(Private Bag X9078, PIETERMARITZBURG  3200 Tel 033 392 6400. 

 His office Administrator is Winnie Hlongwane Fax 033 355 6338 Tel 033 355 6486 

 The report resulted in a visit from the General Manager of Municipal Planning, Mr.Frikkie Brooks. Along with the Municipal Manager Mdu Zungu, Blythedale’s discussed at a site meeting. Mrs Rutledge reported that shortly after the visit, that issues which could be considered to be dangerous or life threatening were attended to, but other needs have still not been addressed.

 

A second dispute to be declared with KDM. 

New Year’s day had proved that it is necessary to control the number of vehicles entering the village since

i)          emergency vehicles were not able to reach the beach area
ii)         insufficient parking in village

iii)         amenities not able to service visitors – water and ablutions.

 

Nic suggested that a survey be carried out to quantify

·       the number of vehicles Zinkwazi can accommodate.

·       The number of people the parks can accommodate

·       The amount of water, toilets to support the number of visitors.

 

Control of public areas by KDM essential all year if local residents are to survive holidays and weekends:

·       Beach parking boom as promised by KDM in restoration of car park will control beach parking.

·       Boom promised by KDM for Black Rock Park to control crowds before festive season not forthcoming.

·       Local residents threatened civil action after non-delivery by KDM 

 
 

Rob suggested we ask disaster management consultant, Abdul Domingo to visit Zinkwazi (at ZBRRA cost)

A file of past festive season problems to made available to him.

He prepares an action plan which we submit to KDM for implementation at Easter

Should our past experiences of New Year be considered ‘disasters’ according to AD we qualify for more stringent legal action to be implemented. This should be made available to KDM by October in preparedness for the next festive season..

 

A third dispute to be declared with SAPS

            The incapacity of SAPS to control behaviour resulted in
ii)         Destruction of property and risk to life

iii)         Abuse of the rights of local residents to access to their own properties

iv)        Exposure of children to shocking violence
v)         Excessive volumes of alcohol being sold illegally in village
 

Reports, video footage, letters from affected parties to be compiled into dossier.

Report of 6 newly opened beaches in the area to be investigated.

 
8          Built Environment

The rates dep are still in the process of undergoing re-valuation of properties for the new role. 

Pensioner rebates are now available for properties in the names of trusts providing they satisfy the normal requirements.

Zoning of properties clearly define activities permissible.

Klaus explained that all community had participated in an independent survey compiled by Helena Jacobs which clearly outlined the wishes of the people. The results were overwhelmingly in support of the village atmosphere and an aversion to commercialism.

Green Jacket Boutique hotel at 130 Nkwazi drive does not fall into the B&B category but into ‘hotel’

The establishment would therefore be required to rezone to commercial or downscale to trade legally. Plans for this building have not yet been past by KDM town planning dept.

 
9          Neighbourhood Watch

James reported a decrease in incidents since January 28th. 

ZBRRA agreed to fund two extra guards to patrol to 15th Dec                      5631-60          pd Jan

Additional funding agreed to: Alpha Security ending 16th Jan                     13,212-60

Mike Dixon Security Systems for maintenance of fence                            10,727-40

Ocean Ecco for the removal of a fallen tree on fence                              R    600-00

Total paid to date - 2009 fin year.                                                      R30171-60
 
10         Natural Environment

The talk and dinner at Lagoon Lodge was a great success.

AIP and rehabilitation programme successful

Bi monthly functions planned by Conservancy for members.

 
11         Squatters.

The shelter erected by vendors at the entrance to the village was removed after Nhlanhla and Ivy of the Local Economic Development visited the village, after a telephone call from WB. They promised to deal with our recurring accommodation problem for basket weaver when next they visit the village.

 
 
12        Closure: 
The meeting ended at 7pm.
 
 
The next forum meeting will be in April on a date to be decided.
 
 

Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace

 
 
 

 ……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb

 

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Minutes of AGM December - 18th December 08

January 15th, 2009

 

Minutes of the AGM of the Zinkwazi Ratepayers and Residents Association

                       18th December 2008,  17H30 at Darnall Country Club      

 

2    Welcome. Neil Wallace the chairman welcomed members and guests, especially Cln Colin Marsh of the DA in Ballito and Emeric Piltz of Blythedale Ratepayer’s Association.

 

3    A quorum was established with 50 members, 10 guests and 22 apologies as per register

4    Minutes of the previous meeting.

Matters arising.   The chairman mentioned that the Constitution and the ‘form’ of the Ratepayers assoc were discussed at the previous AGM. Both had been reviewed. Proposals to change the association to a section 21 company had been considered but this and changes to the Constitution were found to be unnecessary. Comment was invited from the floor. Their being none, their acceptance was proposed by Jasper Pons and seconded by Simon Pratt.

 
5    The Chairman’s Report:-
Relationship with local authorities.

Neil thanked his committee for withstanding the months of stress due to conflict in the village. He stressed that 80% of work done by the ward and ZBRRA overlapped and was for the common good of the village. The small amount of conflict arouse due to process or clashes of personalities.   In March he and Vice Chairman Rob Hofmeyr, brought the untenable situation to the attention of the council and Madame speaker, Veli Luthuli. She invited Chairman Neil Wallace, Vice Chairman Rob Hofmeyr and Admin Manager Wendy Balcomb to join the Ward committee which was in tatters due to internal conflict and several resignations. In the interests of unity, this was agreed to. Wendy Balcomb’s and Engela Wium were elected to serve as representatives of Ward 2 and now work together amicably for the benefit of the village. Since June improved communication with KDM and iLembe were evident. Engela was thanked for her efforts in dealing with Umgeni water and Frances Barnard was thanked for initiating and erecting the street signs.

 

Communications. A user-friendly website was created as an information base for members. This is updated regularly by Wendy. Ward, Conservancy, Security and ZBRRA notices, news, minutes and all types of information is posted onto the site. Neil urged members to make full use of this. Members were asked to advise Wendy is they were not receiving regular communiqués.

 
 
 

Security and Neighbourhood Watch.

Changes proposed by ZBRRA for the independence of the association came into effect this year. The Neighbourhood Watch replaced the Security Fund which was linked to the Ski Boat club. ZNW has its own constitution, bank account and membership. Its Chairman, James Gilleran and committee raise funds to pay Alpha guards to patrol the village at night. ZBRRA will no longer guarantee a contribution of 25% of its membership fee towards the ZNW as they are now self funded through there own membership base. ZBRRA   is committed to contribute towards the maintenance of the electric fence , to fund improved technology for the protection of the village and to provide funds for additional guards during peak holiday seasons

 
Electricity Supply

Zinkwazi is better supplied since the installation this year of a new improved cable into the village earlier in the year.

 
KDM Services

In comparison to many other areas, Zinkwazi has regular provision of services such as refuse removal, Verge mowing etc. Constant monitoring and vigilance of service delivery is necessary if a standard is to be maintained.   This task occupies a large amount of the admin manager’s time. Constant cajoling and encouraging is necessary. Wendy explained that often the staff in KDM did not have the capacity or manpower to carry out the tasks required of them. Colin Marsh endorsed this.

 Bulk water supply – iLembe have contracted supply to Umgeni water for the next 20 years. Borehole pumps have been upgraded and supply lines improved. Reticulation however is of great concern since the pipes supplying water to consumers are old and outdated. Pipes in Magai drive were replaced in November and we are promised that those in Panorama will be replaced in 2009. There were several complaints related to the ineffective performance of iLembe and the fact that reports of leaks were going unheeded for days. Both the Ward and W B on behalf of ZBRRA wrote letters of complaint to iLembe with regard to their poor service through the call centre. Piped water from the Lower Tugela scheme is promised by iLembe by the end of 2010.

 

Roads. Potholes on P403 were regularly reported by WB. As a result of a good relationship with NPA they are repaired without delay. In the village the Civils department responsible have repaired tar on a regular basis when advised. Magai and several other roads were eroded and need to be resurfaced

 

Verges were unsightly due to mounds of building material. The building department of KDM is responsible for monitoring and enforcing the by-laws whereby a verge should be free of builders rubble before a verge fee is refunded. Colin Marsh stressed that the building department of KDM was stretched to their limit with the large numbers of developments along the coast. Staff capacity was limited   Ann Bindoff made a suggestion that each person who hires the services of contractor withhold 10% of funds owed until all builder’s waste has been disposed of. The contractor should stipulate how and where this was disposed of to avoid refuse being dumped round the corner in the village or on the nearby farm. Klaus stated that WB had been proactive in encouraging contractors to clean up their act and where they were concerned with their image, she had some success. Ann Bindoff suggested that a list of accredited contractors be drawn up which could be made available on request to prospective homeowners.

Colin Marsh endorsed the fact that the only method of getting tasks completed by KDM was by persistently but pleasantly following up requests.    Neil said that the service of a full time paid admin manager – who also doubles as a ward rep - was found to be the only way to ensure this was done as it involved continuous time and effort daily.

 
Rates

Rates had increased tremendously. Many objections as to the value of property were received by KDM rates dept. A great number of these had been reviewed and adjusted. Neil Wallace said that a major part of our contribution was not spent on our village but went to provide infrastructure and services in the poorly developed townships in nearby areas. His concern is that it should not be wasted.

 

Town Planning/ Built Environment

Neil said that excellent regulations existed to control building plans. Despite this, mistakes had been made in the village where despite our vigilance, a building was completed which did not comply with by-laws. It was up to all residents to be aware of possible abuse of by-laws and to bring this to the attention of ZBRRA.   ZBRRA were prepared to register as an affected member where relaxation of any by-laws was applied for, in order to keep the village informed. Fighting a court case would normally be the decision of the affected neighbour and not of the association. The assoc. would lodge an objection but it could not fight a court case when it considered that the outcome was unlikely to resolve or reverse the issue.   The KDM was largely at fault as it permitted buildings to go ahead before plans were passed.    N W said that this was one of the goals for next year would be to address a method of being more involved in possible controversial buildings.   WB explained that at a meeting in April of 2007 when the ward committee was first established, she was shouted down by those standing for the ward committee when she stated that ZBRRA as a committee had suggested an independent body be established consisting of architects, environmentalists and informed members of KDM build dept. to vet all ‘controversial building plans’.   The property 130 Nkwazi was the subject of discussion. Neil explained that ZBRRA objected to 130, a special residential property being re-zoned for a hotel in early 2007. Mr T. Brauckmann later withdrew his application. Conflict in the district was rooted in controversy surrounding this building, and the owners objection towards ZBRRA for being a watchdog, during his bid to get his plans passed.

 

Storm water drains. Ann Bindoff voiced her concern with regard to the storm water drains. It was found that in some villages these have been used by unprofessional plumbers to dispose of sewage. N W said that in Zinkwazi we have no water borne sewage but pollution of the lagoon water by river front houses is of concern. The maintenance of river font septic tanks is of importance. It may be necessary for septic tanks to be moved to behind the houses in order to distance them from polluting the river.

 
Beach Restoration

N W said that beside a fence around the car park no repairs had been effected by KDM. KDM under contractor Carlos Mendes have agreed to all proposals from ZBRRA, the Ski Boat club and the ward related to access, ablutions lights and the control of noise by Hantie Plomp. Concern about noise affecting properties behind the beach parking and at Black Rock Park was brought to the attention of ZBRRA by Mr Francois Coetzee and Mrs Ina du Plessis. The proposed lockable boom gate at the entrance to the main beach car park, as proposed in the document, and a boom or gate at Black Rock park should control the situation.

 
 
 
The Mini-Mall.

It was explained by NW that this leased building, which belongs to KDM, is the only commercial node in the village. The lease which existed expired and the tenants of both the hardware and a small convenience store have been unsuccessful in getting a renewed lease despite frequent requests and reminders from both the tenants and ZBRRA over the past 2 years. New tenants have opened a small cafe after the closure of Engela Wium’s shop and are trading successfully. The hardware continues to do business. Fish Eagle Est and Driftwood Letting agency occupy offices in the Mini Mall as will ZBRRA for an information and tourist centre. There is also the suggestion of a Laundromat.

 
6          Conservancy

Neil thanked Klaus for taking on the revival of the Zinkwazi conservancy - the oldest in the country. He explained that it stretched from the Tugela to the Nonoti.   Knowledge of the history and background to the previous structure enabled Klaus to enlist the support of KZN wildlife, the Tongaat Hulett group, and local farmers. They were relieved that the village under the umbrella of ZBRRA would fall into the conservancy, and would be heavily involved in funding and administration.   It was decided that specific project funding would be responsible for funds. Membership would be free to all ZBRRA members.

The conservancy trust has funds in its bank account. Ezemvelo (KZN Wildlife) in principal has made R160000 available through the DEAT programme ‘Working for the Coast’ This is to improve access to the coast and for the maintenance of trails in the nearby bush.   

The conservancy committee had identified a non-profit programme to improve the environment with the involvement of the residents in the Alien Invader Plant project. The conservancy planned to expose the community to the natural assets in the surrounding area by arranging outings. Weather permitting a guided bird walk through Harold Johnson was scheduled for 10th January. In February, Kingsley Holgate was to speak on his trip around Africa. Barge trips down the Zinkwazi river to see the barn swallows was to be scheduled. 

Wendy explained that the removal of invaders from vacant properties was going as planned.   17 properties had been cleared with another 15 in line. Costs had been covered by charging residents a nominal fee to cover the cost of labour and chemicals. Donations of trees from local nurseries had been planted on verges in the village with several more to be placed. Donations were called for from residents to re-forest the village. A nursery to provide shrubs and trees for local residents at cost is to be established on the Clewlow farm adjacent to the village. 

 

7          Finance Richard discussed the audited financial statements. There were no questions. Neil Wallace said that a substantial amount was to be spent on security this year on additional guards over holiday season and future maintenance of the fence. 

Ken Mc Quade was thanked once more for auditing the books. The financial statements were adopted and seconded by Mike Crossmann and Dymock Brett.

 
8          Election of Committee

There were no new nominations for the committee. The following were prepared to stand for another term. Neil Wallace, Rob Hofmeyr, Ian Masson, Klaus Achtzehn, Craig du Bernard, Richard Armstrong, Nic Ellender, Margo Thiel.   Each had been nominated and seconded. Neil thanked the committee, especially the executive for their support and advice. He stated that he would be co-opting others onto the committee when professional advice was necessary. 

Dymock Brett thanked the chairman for the excellent job he has done over the past year, despite taking over the committee at a very stressful time.

 

9          The Chairman concluded his report by summarising his view of the way forward for the association. He said that with increasing developments and bludgeoning population along the coast, there would be more pressure on the municipality for services. . Ideally to be more effective, the associations should lobby collectively in dealing with the municipality. They would need to be vigilant if they were to maintain standards. It had been necessary to employ a full time manager to monitor and police rules regulations and by-laws and to develop a good relationship with officials in KDM to encourage this. 

The Chairman wished to ensure increased and improved technology to support security in the village, a greater role in environmental issues to protect our local assets, and an effective role for the ward committee which now largely comprised the ZBRRA committee. There was a need to encourage more members and increased involvement of younger people in the village in playing a part in the association. He saw great strength in a united village which worked with one voice to one end. 

 

10        Matters Arising.

Remarks from the floor were invited.

Pollution of the river banks. Some residents felt that the litter on the river banks could be as a result of dumping higher up the river or around the village on the adjacent farms. 

Dr David Perkins said that the only manner in which the village could be protected from entry along the beach was by the construction of a sea wall. Neil Wallace remarked that this was a difficult and expensive task and that individuals could install alternate barriers such as garden beams, fences etc

Jasper thanked the Chairman and committee for the year’s work and care of the village. Monica Mansfield gave a special vote of thanks to Wendy Balcomb for the amount of time spent on village matters.

 
11         Closure 19H30
 
 
 
Signed:   N Wallace   ……………………………………………
 
Chairman
 
 
W Balcomb ………………………………………………………..
Administrative Manager
 

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Minutes of the ZBRRA AGM - 18th December 2007

November 30th, 2008

 

                            Minutes
 

Meeting   ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – ZBRRA

Date & time 18th December 2007, 18H00

Venue   Darnall Country Club

 
 
1.

Present Klaus Achtzehn (Chairman) Nic Ellender, Ian Masson, James Gilleran (Security) Neil Wallace, Richard Armstrong, Margo Thiel, Wendy Balcomb (ZBRRA Admin. Manager)

Members present as per attendance register

 
 
2.
Apologies

Mr & Mrs DuBernard

Rob Hofmeyr,

T. Thompson, H Lindveldt

Dr L Cramer

R Tayler

And all as per proxy

 
3.

Signing of Attendance Register

Attendance register recorded signatures of 72 members, 54 proxies. With spouses and non-members, approximately 150 people attended the AGM

 
4.
Quorum There was a quorum and the meeting was opened.
Welcome: The chairman welcomed all present and expressed the committee’s appreciation for the excellent attendance.
 
5

Minutes of previous meeting

Minutes of the previous meeting were accepted, approved by Dymock Brett and seconded by Gerard Maritz.

 
6.
Chairman’s report:
 

·       2007 was a challenging year for the committee but the outcome was a much stronger association.

·       Wendy and the committee were thanked for their tremendous contributions and perseverance. Thanks were also expressed for the invaluable contribution to the community by the late Mark Clewlow as well as for voluntary assistance by members like Simon Pratt.

·       Membership has grown to about 200 from 150 a year ago. Reserves have doubled during the year, enabling the new committee to not only guarantee the community security effort, but also to tackle ambitious new projects.

·       The duty of the committee was to carry out the mandate of the members as stated in our Mission Statement and to endeavour to protect our joint investment in Zinkwazi. The committee is accountable to the ZBRRA members only.

·       The present constitution is uncomplicated and has been adequate but there may be some issues that could be amended in the future. The structure of the association was explained and the possibility that this may need to change due to the needs of a much larger body. 

·       Membership and eligibility: Each rate-able property is entitled to one membership only. A company or trust would nominate one representative for membership. Any leaseholder of rateable property is also entitled to one membership.

·       Preparation for the AGM and elections was transparent and every effort was made to encourage nominations from members. Several invalid nominations were put forward for election onto the committee, who were not eligible for various reasons and every effort was made to facilitate their compliance for nomination.

·       The independent election arbitrators J Osborn, B Stone and E Pilz, who agreed to assist with the counting of votes, were thanked.

·       The committee successfully dealt with the following:

·       Security

·       The rates department

·       Beach restoration meetings attended

·       Communication with Service providers and members

·       Illegal signage and street names

·       Roads and potholes

·       Water issues. Responsibility of water supply was split between Umgeni and Illembe and a supply contract has been signed enabling Umgeni to budget for a new water supply for Zinkwazi.

·       Contact made with Ocean Reef Body Corp to resolve outstanding issues with hotel

·       Communication with members has been good.

·       Website has been registered to broadcast information and provide space for other bodies and services.

 

·       The role as watchdog of compliance was explained: We are mandated to communicate with the authorities Eskom, Ilembe etc. Irregular Development issues are brought to members attention and circulated. If necessary we register as an interested/affected party. It was stressed that ZBRRA would inform but not become involved in personal issues.

 
7
 
Questions from the floor
Rigby Heenan questioned

Membership application explained as an association of voluntary members not a legal body or company

Membership as regards multiple ownership explained. A single ratable property is entitled to a single membership. If owned by company one membership applicable. Member is only a member if in good standing and has paid up.

Status of association re liability. May need a change of status or indemnity from liability. Any member may have access to audited financial statements from WB. 

Town planning questioned. Town Planning Scheme needs to be finalized by new committee to ensure that future development will comply with the holistic vision of the community.

Fica compliance confirmed

Mrs Hornick reported unacceptable noise from Black Rock Park and the beach area over festive season

Mrs Mc Cracken reported disturbance to residents from seasonal basket vendors who take up residence in the bush at corner of Nkwazi and Seagull Rd.

 
8
 
Financial Report: Ian Masson reported
 

It was explained that accounts were run by WB, submitted to Ian Masson monthly and audited annually by Ken Mc Quade. 

Membership fees increased from R144,250 to R192,150
Neighbourhood Watch contribution grew from R34,537 to R62,4883

Reserves have increased from R60,825 to R119,729

 

Questions posed which need to be resolved.

 

1)       The matter of whether the Association needs to deduct PAYE from the Admin Manager as a Consultant.

2)       The present legal status of the association, with a constitution, and whether it should be changed to a Section 21 Company or a CC

3)       Verification of the Assets of the Association, and more particularly the Bank Account Balances as at 31 October 2007. We will ask for Certificates of Balance from the Bank and send copies of these to members.

4)       Our Constitution does not require the Association to be Audited and signed off by a firm of Registered Accountants, although the person, Ken McQuade, who audited our books of accounting, works for a well known firm of Auditors in the area. He completed the audit in his private capacity.

 
9
 
Security: James Gilleran reported
 

Statistics showed that beams were a deterrent to crime

Holiday homes were more at risk than those permanently occupied

96 incidents this year. I
Incidents:- 66% successful robberies, 56% unsuccessful .
Electronic goods, computers and safes mostly stolen.

It was necessary to engage an alternate new security company on 3 months trial. Alpha have two guards on duty by day and two by night

Members urged to register staff with ZBRRA and to display clearly the property number on premises.

All encouraged to support the Neighbourhood Watch
Questions – none

The Chairman stressed the need for the NW to be a strong independent body

 
10
 
Way Forward – by Neil Wallace

Neil highlighted a no of key challenges for the new committee in 2008.

 

·       Rebuild relationships with local government and clarify the role and appointment of ward committee members

·       Further development of the Neighbourhood  Watch , it should become an independent body in 2008

·       Finalisation of the town planning scheme incorporating the survey information already compiled. A future arrangement for housing commercial enterprises must be addressed.

·      Focus on the environment creating greater community awareness of the factors effecting  our environment and how we can best protect it in the face of rapid development along the North Coast.  

·      The Lagoon - protect its status and use for future generations 

·      Alien Vegetation eradication and control. 

·       General conservancy status of Zinkwazi Beach to be reviewed .

·       Rebuilding of critical infrastructure after the March storms. To be ready to add to the local government plans for restoration where needed, with particular reference to beach access paths and the current degradation of the dune face.

 
 
11
 
Elections of Office Bearers

Due to the withdrawal of 5 nominations on 16th December, the remaining 14 nominations would be accepted by default.

The existing members of the committee were Klaus Achtzehn, Rob Hofmeyr, Ian Masson, Richard Armstrong, Nic Ellender, Margo Thiel, James Gilleran, Craig du Bernard, Neil Wallace. New committee members are Gladys Bowton, Frank Rencken, Vic Oellerman, Vic Louis, Dymock Brett..

 
The floor applauded the new committee.
 
12
 

Matters Arising

Noise and disturbance from Black Rock to be brought to the attention of the authorities

 
13.
Closure
 
 
 
Signed:   K Achtzehn ………………………………………………..
 
Chairman
 
 
W Balcomb ………………………………………………………..
Administrative Manager

 

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