JB Marks Weekly Round-Up: Service Reports, Safety Campaigns, and Leadership Engagements
- Karen Scheepers
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
During the week, JB Marks Local Municipality experienced a range of service-related incidents, infrastructure challenges, and key municipal activities. Community reports highlighted recurring water leaks, sewer blockages, and localized electricity disruptions, while national and local leadership conducted several high-level engagements focused on road safety, labour coordination, and strategic planning.
Service Disruptions and Infrastructure Reports
Water Leaks and Road Conditions in Hoffman Street
Throughout the week, multiple reports were received via community WhatsApp groups regarding ongoing water leaks and road deterioration in Hoffman Street and its surrounding intersections:
76–78 Hoffman Street: Persistent water leaks reported.
Corner of Hoffman and Rissik Streets: A large pothole has formed in addition to a visible water leak.
Corner of Hoffman Street and Chief Albert Luthuli Drive (CB Security vicinity): Ongoing road degradation and water seepage have been noted.
Residents have been encouraged to submit photographs to support repair prioritization.
Sewage Blockage in Kruis Street
A significant sewage line blockage was reported mid-week on Kruis Street South, with overflow affecting nearby residential areas. According to resident reports, the line is backing up into garages via exterior drains. The situation is under municipal review.
Water Leak Near Miederpark Engen
A large water leak across from the Engen garage in Miederpark, near the CJF du Plessis Centre, was reported on Tuesday. Community members indicated that the issue had been raised multiple times with no visible resolution to date.
Electricity Theft and Disruptions
Cable Theft in Sol Plaatjie Street
On Thursday, residents in Sol Plaatjie experienced early-morning power outages due to cable theft incidents at:
Camp Street 48–56
Intersection of Sylvia Street
These events resulted in localized electricity disruptions, with municipal technicians responding to restore services.
Weekend Disruptions
Isolated power outages were also recorded in unspecified areas on Saturday, though these were resolved without widespread impact.
Public Safety and Protest Activity
Dassierand/ Promosa Road Activity
On Monday, reports of civil unrest were noted along the Dassierand–Promosa road, with community alerts indicating potential traffic congestion near Jooplaas, Govan Mbeki, Thabo Mbeki, and Hennie Bingle roads. Motorists were advised to proceed with caution. No formal disruptions were reported.
National Road Safety Awareness Campaign - 13 June
In preparation for Youth Day (16 June), the Department of Transport launched a road safety campaign on the N12 in Potchefstroom. The event was led by:
Minister Barbara Creecy
Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa
The campaign emphasized the importance of responsible driving, especially among young people. Residents were reminded that road safety is a shared responsibility.
Municipal Engagements and Leadership Activities
June 18 - Organisational Structure Discussions
A strategic session was held in the Council Chambers, led by:
Municipal Manager: Mr. Kgomotso Kumbe
CFO: Mr. Jeffry Monareng
Director of Community Safety: Mr. Collen Mofokeng
The meeting involved key union representatives from SAMWU and IMATU, focusing on the municipality’s proposed organisational structure, aiming to enhance service delivery and internal coordination.
June 20 – State of the City Address
Today, 20 June, Executive Mayor Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele delivered the State of the City Address and Budget Speech during a Special Council Meeting held at the Dan Tolima Council Chambers. The mayor addressed city progress, future plans, and budget allocations. The event was broadcast live on Aganang FM (90.0 MHz).
Forward Focus
As JB Marks Local Municipality continues to navigate infrastructure challenges and seasonal pressures, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official updates and to report persistent issues via the appropriate municipal channels. Public involvement, transparent communication, and coordinated planning remain central to addressing service delivery concerns across all wards.
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