TWO DOZEN locals attended the launch election meeting of the Civic Association of Rondebsoch East (CARE) on Thursday, much to the delight of the newly-elected chairperson who admits that constitutional general meetings are “a tad boring”.

After months of planning, CARE is finally up and running, with the elected office bearers already making big plans towards improving the area.

Formerly the only area in Ward 60 not to have a civic association, the aim of the body will be to pick up where CARE left off when it disbanded 10 year ago.

Christopher Lane, the founder of the association, who has been living in Rondebosch East for the past 25 years, was voted in as chair, while Tracy Schouw will serve as his deputy.

Maria Sanchez is the secretary and Zelt Marais the treasurer.

Lane says meetings will be held to approve a formal continuation, and to get the lines of communication in place. He encourages all locals to contact him to take action on things that “bug” residents, and explains that various issues will be tackled as the association takes its baby steps.

“We would like to foster unity with Crawford residents on the other side of the railway line, and also establish areas of concern in our area. The street committee, or bush telegraph system, will also be explored,” he says.

Pro-active thinkers are encouraged to join CARE, and businesspeople and religious leaders are also welcome. The next public meeting is planned for 20 March.

Contact Lane on 083 691 7101, or join CARE’s Facebook group by typing “Civic Association of Rondebosch East” in the search bar.