31/03/2026
โ๏ธ | ๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐บ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ช๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฑ ๐๐น๐น๐ฟ'๐ ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐๐ธ...
Dear Residents,
Over the past few months, I have spent a great deal of time reflecting on my journey in public service and the absolute privilege of serving as your Ward 84 Councillor for the last 4 years. It has led me to think deeply about the responsibilities this role has carried, but also about the many experiences, challenges, and moments of growth that have shaped my time in office.
With the 2026 Local Government Elections now on the near horizon, conversations about the future leadership of the ward will naturally begin to emerge. Many of you are understandably asking who will stand as the (DA) Councillor Candidate to represent you in Council for the next 5 years, so I'd like to address that question openly and honestly if you'll allow me the time...
After a great deal of reflection, I have decided that I will not be seeking re-election as the Ward 84 Councillor on voting day (to be confirmed). It is a decision that comes from deep and careful thought about the journey behind me and the next chapter that now lies ahead.
I chose to dedicate my life to public service at the age of 18, at a time when most people are only beginning to discover who they are and what path they wish to follow in life. In many ways, that decision shaped the person I am today; it placed me on a path defined by selflessness, service, and a deep sense of responsibility toward others - a path that ultimately led me to the privilege of serving you in this significant role.
My time in office has been among the most challenging, humbling, and meaningful chapters I have ever known. It has required me to navigate difficult conversations, complex systems, and many moments where progress felt frustratingly slow. Yet through it all, you have been the constant and defining factor; residents who care deeply about their neighbourhoods and the future of the vibrant communities they call home.
Together, we have faced many challenges, raised important concerns, and pushed for progress even when the path forward was not always clear. There have been frustrations, setbacks, and moments of disappointment, but there have also been moments of resilience and shared purpose that reminded me time and again of our combined strenght and the importance of continuing to fight for what is right, no matter what, each passing day.
Until the very end of the current political term, my commitment remains unchanged; to continue serving the residents of Ward 84 and advocating for the needs, concerns, and interests of our communities with the same dedication that guided me throughout my time in office. I owe that not only to you, but also to the oath I took before my Maker, which I have regarded not as a formality, but as a solemn responsibility.
I remain deeply grateful for the great trust that you have placed in me over the years. The many conversations, engagements, and shared challenges have formed part of a journey that I will carry with me long after this chapter has come to a close, one that I will reflect on with humility, appreciation, and sincere thankfulness for the people who gave it meaning and made it worthwhile.
While this period of public service is coming to its natural end, Ward 84 will always hold a special place in my heart; not simply as an area I was elected to represent in Council, but as a people that became part of who I am and left a lasting imprint on my life. To have served you has been a rare and defining honour, one that will continue to shape me in all that I do.
Kind regards,
Ward Cllr Goosen (DA)
