The JB Marks Local Municipality has extended an open invitation to all residents to engage in a series of public participation meetings regarding the 2023/2024 Annual Report. These meetings, organized by the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC), aim to foster transparency and accountability while allowing community members to voice their concerns, ask questions, and provide input on municipal governance.

Why These Meetings Matter

Public participation is a cornerstone of democratic governance, and in compliance with Section 21A of the Municipal Systems Act (MSA) and Section 129 of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), these discussions are structured to ensure that the voices of local residents are heard. The meetings will offer an opportunity for the public to scrutinize municipal performance, financial management, and service delivery over the past financial year.

Meeting Schedule and Venues

The JB Marks Municipality has scheduled three key meetings across different regions for accessibility and inclusivity:

These sessions are expected to address issues such as municipal expenditures, infrastructure development, service delivery backlogs, and other pressing concerns raised by community members.

A Platform for Community Engagement

Speaking to municipal officials, it is evident that these meetings are not just a statutory obligation but a genuine effort to involve residents in shaping the future of the municipality.

“The Annual Report provides insight into our progress and challenges over the past year. We urge all members of the community to participate and share their views so that we can improve our service delivery and governance,” stated a municipal representative.

How to Participate

Residents who wish to contribute but cannot attend in person may submit their queries, inputs, and comments via:

email to jones@jbmarks.gov.za 

or contact the Office of MPAC at (018) 299 5674 / 072 770 7680.

The deadline for written submissions is before 12:00 Noon on March 4, 2025.

What’s at Stake?

The discussions surrounding the Annual Report provide a crucial accountability mechanism. The community's feedback can influence decision-making processes, highlight inefficiencies, and ensure that public funds are utilized effectively. It is an opportunity for residents to directly engage with municipal leadership and advocate for the issues that matter most to them.

For many residents, these meetings represent a rare chance to interact directly with municipal officials and hold them accountable. As the municipality continues its efforts to improve service delivery and governance, public participation remains key to building a stronger and more responsive local government.

All residents are encouraged to seize this opportunity, as their voices can make a meaningful impact on the future of JB Marks Local Municipality.

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