JB Marks Residents Invited to Public Consultations on 2026 Ward Draft Maps
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 11
- 2 min read
Residents of JB Marks Local Municipality are being called to participate in public consultation sessions that will help shape the boundaries of wards ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. The meetings form part of the Ward Delimitation 2025 process, managed by the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) in partnership with the municipality.
Why Ward Delimitation Matters
Ward delimitation is the process of redrawing municipal ward boundaries to ensure fair representation during elections. The MDB oversees this process nationwide, guided by population changes, community input, and legislative requirements. Public consultations are a critical part of this process, giving residents and stakeholders an opportunity to review draft ward maps, ask questions, and submit alternative proposals.
For JB Marks, this step is especially significant as it will determine how communities in Potchefstroom, Ventersdorp, and surrounding areas are represented in council. The final ward configurations will directly influence voting districts, service delivery planning, and how local voices are reflected in decision-making.
Consultation Sessions in JB Marks
The JB Marks Local Municipality has scheduled three consultation sessions across the region:
Potchefstroom Region
Wednesday, 17 September 2025
Venue: Madiba Banqueting Halls
Time: 09:00 – 13:00
Potchefstroom Region (Afternoon)
Wednesday, 17 September 2025
Venue: OR Tambo Community Hall
Time: 14:00 – 17:00
Ventersdorp Region
Thursday, 18 September 2025
Venue: Extension 02 Community Hall
Time: 09:00 – 13:00
The sessions will provide the public with access to draft maps, presentations, and an opportunity to engage directly with officials on how the proposed wards were drawn.
National Context
The ward delimitation process began earlier this year and has already gone through stages of data collection and technical assessments. The MDB is conducting consultations in municipalities across South Africa, ensuring that every community has the chance to contribute before draft ward maps are finalized.
Public input is not only welcomed but encouraged, as community submissions can influence adjustments to ward boundaries. Once finalized, the new wards will be gazetted and become the official electoral map for the 2026 elections.
Looking Ahead
For residents of JB Marks, these consultations offer a chance to influence how local democracy will be structured for years to come. Active participation is expected to ensure the final ward configuration reflects both demographic realities and community identities.
The outcomes of these sessions will feed into the broader MDB process, with the final ward maps expected to be published ahead of the 2026 polls.
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