The recent “updated ratepayer’s handout,” dated 20 November 2025 and reportedly distributed at the Sandbaai Hall, contains several misleading statements that require clarification. There is a growing concern about the spread of false information within the Overstrand communities, which not only distorts the facts but can also harm the reputation of the Municipality.
Debt Write-Offs and Informal Settlements
One of the claims made in the handout is that almost all of the municipal debt written off originates from informal settlements. This assertion is unfounded. By definition, informal settlements are not fully serviced and therefore do not receive municipal accounts. Consequently, residents in these areas cannot be in arrears, as no accounts are issued to them. The group responsible for the handout has erroneously and openly declared this claim, thereby misleading the public.
Electricity Theft and Illegal Connections
Another issue raised is electricity theft, with the handout suggesting that illegal connections are limited to Zwelihle and Dubai. In reality, illegal electricity connections occur throughout the Overstrand jurisdiction, not just in the areas mentioned. The municipal council is actively working to improve access to legal electricity connections for all residents.
Water Quality at Grotto Beach
The group is invited to present their evidence regarding E-coli levels in the sea water at Grotto Beach. It is important to note that Grotto Beach has maintained Blue Flag status for 24 consecutive years. One of the key criteria for this status is regular water sampling to ensure the beach remain unpolluted.
If the water quality were compromised, the beach would not qualify for Blue Flag recognition. Therefore, the claim that E. coli levels exceed safe limits is directly contradicted by the ongoing Blue Flag status awarded to Grotto Beach.
Crime in Overstrand
Crime is a global challenge and not unique to Overstrand. The statistics highlighted in the handout – 18 serious house robberies and 30 attacks over four years – actually demonstrate that Overstrand fares better than many other cities and towns in the Western Cape and across South Africa. It is important to remember that the Municipality is not responsible for crime prevention; this is the mandate of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Municipal Rates and Subsidies
The author of the handout appears confused about municipal rates and indigent subsidies. These subsidies are fully funded by the national government, not by the ratepayers of Overstrand. This is an indisputable fact and should be clearly understood by all residents.
Tourism Trends in Overstrand
The notion that tourism in Overstrand is at risk and experiencing a decline is inaccurate. Current tourism numbers are equal to, and in some cases higher than, pre-pandemic figures. The claim that bookings have dropped by 15% due to “perceived safety and water quality decline” is far from the truth. Accommodation establishments report that they are fully booked for most periods, contradicting any suggestion of a downturn..
Encouraging Responsible Information Sharing
It is regrettable that certain groups in Overstrand continue to misrepresent the truth to further their own agendas. However, it is essential to prevent the spread of blatant falsehoods about the state of affairs in the Municipality, as these can damage the reputation of the town.
Overstrand Municipality’s Performance
Overstrand Municipality is widely recognised as a highly functional institution, with numerous awards attesting to its performance. While no organisation is perfect, the Municipality continues to deliver high-quality services, managed by competent and resilient staff under the guidance of an efficient Council.
The public is encouraged to consider all information about the Municipality objectively. Residents should consult official municipal publications, engage with their ward councillor, attend public meetings, or request information from their ward councillor or the Mayor. Being informed with accurate facts is essential for constructive engagement and for safeguarding the integrity of Overstrand Municipality.
