SERVICE delivery complaints, fault reporting and nuisance reports to the uMhlathuze municipality could be a breeze with a newly developed social media tool rolled out in ward 2 this week.
Ward 2 Councillor Christo Botha says the newly developed website, www.umhlathuzeward2.org.za, was designed to provide a speedy and effective way to channel complaints, improve communication and secure effective responses in shorter times.
It is also directly linked to the Facebook page, uMhlathuze Ward 2.
Botha says the original concept was the brainchild of Cllr Andre de Lange of ward 23.
‘In today’s world, time is of the essence and frustration levels run high. With this tool, we hope to cut reporting and response time.
‘As soon as a notification is forwarded from the website, e-mails are generated to notify the relevant deputy municipal manager, the senior manager in the specific department, the technicians who deal with the type of fault, the customer service department and the ward councillor.
‘The relevant role players will then action the notification as soon as possible.’
The website also functions as a community notice board and will contain minutes of monthly ward committee meetings to improve transparency and communication to grass roots level.
‘It is not just a forum for complaints, but a way to connect people to social media neighbours, to share compliments for quick service and good reports about all local businesses and events of community interest, such as activities at various sport clubs.
‘The tool is now available for residents, business and industrial premises, sport clubs and beachfront facilities.
‘Since we have launched the Facebook page and website, the response has been remarkable,’ said Botha.
‘Residents who have used the website to log faults with the municipality are impressed with the quick reaction.
‘We intend to roll it out to improve service delivery to other urban wards too.
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