His resignation as chair of the Parow Community Policing Forum (CPF) was a difficult decision to make, but something that had to be done, says Deon Maneveld.
Maneveld resigned as chair recently and told TygerBurger that the new job he started not too long ago requires his attention.
He says the community is important to him, but ultimately it is his work that pays the bills.
“I need to apply my full energy and time as chair, but as I am one who is not someone to do a job half baked, I decided to step down. I tried for a month or two, but I felt that I was neglecting the CPF in terms of time and energy,” he says.
He says although his team stood behind him always, he felt that if he neglected to fulfil his role, it was time to step aside.
“I was not giving my all and with that in mind I decided to step down.”
Maneveld says this is also an opportunity to give someone else a chance.
“Perhaps someone else with new thoughts, ideas and energy.”
The vice-chair of the CPF, Nita Geldenhuys, also handed in her resignation. According to Maneveld, her work and family life also need to be more focussed on.
“What people may or may not know, is that the CPF takes a lot of time and energy and we are people with jobs and families as well.
“Though we do not want people to step down, we need to remind ourselves that this is voluntary work.”
He says the CPF almost became like a full-time job.
“You have to keep documents and complete forms and so on. This is not easy for people who have full-time jobs, especially if you work odd hours.
“I travel a lot, go to meetings and am not at home much.
“I was feeling that I am doing the organisation an injustice to hold on to the position, and not fulfilling my role.”
He said his resignation was a sad decision.
“I live in Klipkop, Parow Valley. I live in the community and I will still do my part.”
He says he will continue to support the local neighbourhood watches and CPF.
Maneveld started getting involved in community structures in 2000 when he moved into the area.
“It is not something you get paid to do, you do it because of the love of the community.”
He says he will still participate in the activities hosted by community structures.
“Once you get involved in these things, it is not easy to step aside, so I am going to remain involved and participate going forward,” he says.
He says he will be flying under the radar, but that he will still be around.
“This is a sad and emotional time. Hopefully someone will take over, change is good,” Maneveld said.
The election for the new chair and vice-chair takes place on 16 August at the Parow Police Station boardroom at 19:00.
