Romeo de Lange has been appointed Subcouncil 8 manager, bringing years of experience in municipal governance and service-delivery coordination to the Helderberg.

He took over the reins from Nonzuzo Jacob, who had been acting in the position, at the beginning of July.

“My journey has been driven by a commitment to building stronger connections between residents, councillors and the City of Cape Town’s administration,” De Lange explained.

As subcouncil manager, he acts as the link between communities and the City of Cape Town’s administration. He supports councillors, facilitates ward-committee processes and coordinates service delivery across different departments.

“Subcouncils serve as the direct link between residents and the City, enabling governance that is accessible, accountable and community-focused,” explained Theresa Uys, Mayoral Committee member for Corporate Services.

De Lange added: “My first impression is that residents of the Helderberg are deeply committed to their communities and eager for responsive, accountable service delivery.”

He believes what makes Subcouncil 8 distinctive is that the are combines urban, peri-urban and rural dynamics in one subcouncil, where established suburbs exist alongside informal settlements, farming areas and coastal towns.

“This diversity means service-delivery priorities differ widely, from housing and infrastructure backlogs to stormwater and traffic management to coastal protection and tourism support. Balancing these needs is what makes the Helderberg unique.”

De Lange credits the Helderberg’s character to historic Somerset West, the coastal energy of Strand and Gordon’s Bay, and the resilience of communities such as Nomzamo, Lwandle, Rusthof, Firgrove, Macassar and Sir Lowry’s Pass.

For him key priorities include housing and informal-settlement upgrades, investment in roads, stormwater and river management, safety, public facilities and coastal management.

However, with the local elections in November, the new subcouncil manager’s most immediate priority is to strengthen trust and transparency during what is humorously referred to as “silly season”. “Residents want to see that their concerns are taken seriously, regardless of political timelines,” he said.

De Lange’s approach is to facilitate open communication and create platforms for meaningful engagement with the City. “The Helderberg is a proud and diverse region, and my commitment is to work with councillors, officials and communities to ensure that service delivery reflects their needs. Progress may not always be immediate, but accountability and responsiveness will guide my approach.”