When I was chairman of the local ratepayer's association, city officials and the then Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism were clear that the site, adjacent to the public swimming pool, would not be developed into the hotel and shopping complex so many residents apposed. 

The City of Cape Town, turning a blind eye to the Mayoral Committee which is held in camera, talks about transparency but then has deliberations that are secret.

This development has once again raised it head. It proves the constant need for vigilance, watching and being suspicious of every move that government makes. For me it is exhausting and demoralizing because I now feel that our elected representatives are looking to balance city coffers rather than respond to what residents need or want.