Ermelo’s reminder of municipal extravagance – Sibande himself would be appalled

Yesterday, the International Monetary Fund dropped South Africa’s 2016 economic growth forecast another couple hundred bips to 0.6%. That shouldn’t surprise anyone. With so much political turbulence, it’s a wonder anyone is minding the SA shop. You have to respect the statistics. But yesterday’s eastwards journey from Johannesburg opened two new thoughts.

It’s hard to believe the number of big trucks on Mpumalanga roads carrying coal, timber and other export-destined products. This might just be a reflection of the inefficiency of SA rail networks. But even if that were the case, such high volumes of commercial traffic certainly dispel suggestions of economic stagnation.

Something else that has to be seen to be believed are the municipal offices in Ermelo, a mid-sized provincial town. A strange mixture between Monte Casino and the Union Buildings, this edifice cost more than a quarter billion rand five years ago.

The offices, named after local struggle hero Gert Sibande, offer a stark physical reminder of the extravagance that local government spending can reach when unchecked. Ermelo’s ratepayers have a constant reminder of this excess – something they will surely remember in August’s election. Were he still alive, there’s little doubt farm worker Sibande would also shake his head at this dreadful waste of public funds.

From Biznews community member Beatrys Lacquet

And you have seen the expansion of the Joburg civic centre in Braamfontein? Not sure why the City needed this – some stories doing the rounds.

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