The Lautoka City Council (LCC) is taking a considerate approach towards residents who have planted crops or established gardens beyond their property lines. Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Anees Khan has clarified that the council provides adequate notice to those involved before any removal of these plants occurs.
Khan explained that when the council discovers gardens encroaching on public land, they conduct an inspection and issue a notice with a specific timeframe, allowing residents the opportunity to rectify the situation. If residents clear the plants within the designated period, no further action is taken. However, if they do not comply, the council reserves the right to remove the crops and restore the area.
Importantly, Khan emphasized that the council strives to be accommodating, allowing residents additional time to harvest their crops if requested. For example, if cassava is planted in an unauthorized area, the council may wait for the crop to be ready before removing it and converting the land back into a grassy space.
In addition, the council utilizes a complaints management software that tracks various issues reported by the community, with landscaping and drainage complaints frequently topping the list.
This proactive communication strategy from the Lautoka City Council highlights their commitment to balancing community needs while maintaining public spaces. It is a hopeful reminder of the importance of cooperation between residents and local authorities for the betterment of the community.
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