18 August, 2005 Press Release Call to register The City of Johannesburg is calling upon all community based organisations to register themselves in preparation for the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) consultation meetings. Councillor Nandi Mayathula-Khoza said, "In compiling its new five year IDP, Joburg wants to ensure that all stakeholders are involved in shaping service delivery priorities and development of the City". She said, "Residents associations and civics have an important role to play in helping create a conducive environment and the proper platform for discussion with the City". Once registered, organisations will form part of the City's database and will receive details of meetings in their area as well as information on the City. "As organisations that represent local communities, your input can make a difference in expressing community needs and expectations", said Mayathula-Khoza. The IDP basically maps out the City's achievements, challenges, medium term financial planning as well as future development. She said, "As a City we cannot over emphasize enough the importance of public participation in the affairs of the City". Continuing she said, "Consultation meetings give communities the opportunity to "have their say" with regard to development of their areas". This could be the fencing of a park, lighting, speedhumps, building of community facilities and conservation needs. These are accordingly budgeted for and feedback given to communities on the status of those projects. All active community organisations are urged to register before 2 September 2005 by furnishing details of the name, locality, membership, affiliation and full contact details. This must be submitted to: Pat Nhlapo, Office of the Speaker, PO Box 1049 Johannesburg 2000 or pnhlapo@joburg.org.za or faxed to 403 1615. Ends Virgil James Spokesperson Communications Telephone: 407 7226 Facsimile: 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9415 Email: virgilj@joburg.org.za