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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Municipal councillors and senior management of the Mossel Bay Municipality were delighted at the announcement of Colin Puren's appointment as the new municipal manager.
The announcement was made following a special council meeting on Wednesday, 9 February.
As Puren was called to the mayoral lobby, councillors offered their heartfelt congratulations after the meeting in the council chambers was adjourned.
Puren has 26 years' experience in local government. Over the past few months, he has been acting as municipal manager.
PHOTO GALLERY: Colin Puren new municipal manager
A statement from the mayor's office notes that the appointment follows an intensive selection process.
"It is encouraging for Mossel Bay that the experience, expertise and qualifications of Mr Puren, a valued manager of this municipality, have identified him as the preferred candidate.
"As a person who has been employed by this municipality for several years, and with extensive experience in community liaison, he will contribute to overall stability.
"He is well acquainted with community challenges and has a good resonance with all our communities," reads executive mayor, Alderman Dirk Kotzé's statement.
In an interview regarding his appointment, Puren said it was a particular honour to be appointed to the post in what he referred to as his "twilight years".
"What an honour to fill the highest position in the number one municipality in South Africa. We have a stable municipal council and an equally stable workforce, especially in senior management."
Puren said he looked forward to growing the already strong relationship between council and the administration.
"The mayor has a growth strategy for Mossel Bay and I am looking forward to sitting down and planning how those goals can be achieved."
Puren said he had a heart for the greater community, especially lower income groups.
"I am going to deliver my best. And put God first."
Puren's appointment was submitted procedurally for ratification to the Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Minister Anton Bredell.
Speaker Venolea Fortuin; newly appointed municipal manager, Colin Puren; executive mayor, Alderman Dirk Kotzé; and deputy mayor, Alderman Cliffie Bayman. Photos: Cornelle Carstens
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