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This month, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Lori Klein, the dedicated Suburb Manager for Parkmore. Lori plays a crucial role in maintaining the smooth operations and security of our beloved Parkmore suburb. Her responsibilities are vast, ranging from attending weekly SAPS and Security Providers and monthly CPF meetings to address safety concerns, to managing civic matters like potholes and water leaks, and spearheading park improvement projects. Lori's commitment to enhancing our community is unwavering, and her efforts are deeply appreciated by all Parkmore residents. Join us as we delve into her day-to-day experiences, challenges, and the impactful initiatives she leads to keep Parkmore a thriving and secure place to live.
Q1: How long have you lived in Parkmore?
Lori: I was born in Parkmore, moved out after I got married and came back about a decade ago.
Q2: What is your fondest memory of Parkmore?
Lori: The numerous sand roads, walking to the good old Café’s along 11th street – playing Pacman and pinball on the arcade machines and having many fun times with friends at the George Lea Park (aka Sandton Sports Club) playground.
Q3: Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to become the Suburb Manager for Parkmore?
Lori: In a quick and simple way... When I moved back to Parkmore a decade or so ago, I was looking at other opportunities and community service came to mind incl. how I could help and improve suburbs. I worked with one of the previous Parkmore Chair’s on the big George Lea Park cleanup project in around 2017 and we connected from there. When she advised me, she was stepping down, we discussed if I wanted to step in and work in greater Parkmore. That’s how it began with Parkmore – the rest is history 😊
Q4: What do you enjoy most about living and working in Parkmore?
Lori: I get to mingle with the residents and create “friends” within the community. I generally have a great relationship with the residents and businesses alike. Parkmore is home and it is easier to relate to people, when you reside within the community.
Q5: What are some of the biggest challenges you face as Suburb Manager?
Lori: I would have to say residents with high expectations (many issues are not within my control) and communication with the entities, within the municipality. Not to forget the issues seen regarding students, illegal property utilisation, 11th street problems and so on…
Q6: What is your greatest concern for Parkmore currently?
Lori: The reliance of residents on the PCA to do just about anything and everything, when only 50% of the suburb are members. We need members and in turn more finances, in order to achieve more. Upgrades and many changes require finances, so the more we have available to utilise, the more of a positive impact we can create. I have always wanted to create an “estate style” living environment in Parkmore and I don’t see why we cannot achieve such.
Q7: What can residents do to help?
Lori: Start coming together, create sub-committees and assist the PCA. Talking on WhatsApp groups and not coming together with a plan and actioning it, unfortunately won’t get us far. Enough with the sideline chatter, let’s all work together to get the solutions we want/need. We require more members and in turn create additional finances, to achieve more. So, start creating a hype on your street groups and the general groups (as many non-members are on them) and rally up the troops to join the community.
Q8: What are your goals for Parkmore in the next few years?
Lori: To create more inclusivity and togetherness within the suburb, to achieve far more. I have always wanted to create an “estate style” living environment in Parkmore and I don’t see why we cannot achieve such, but this will require a lot more hands on deck.
Q9: What advice do you have for residents who want to contribute more to the community?
Lori: Put your hand up and come forward, so we know who you are. Inform us of your skills set and tell us what you would be interested in assisting with. Teamwork builds mountains and achieves the positive results.
Thank you, Lori, for taking the time to share your insights and experiences with us. Your dedication and hard work are truly appreciated by everyone in the Parkmore community. We look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of your efforts in our suburb.
WORKING TOGETHER FOR A BETTER, SAFER PARKMORE:
WORKING TOGETHER FOR A BETTER, SAFER PARKMORE:
Parkmore Community Association (PCA):
Suburb Manager - Lori Klein: manager@parkmore.org.za | 081 777 0477
PCA Membership - Coll Evans: members@parkmore.org.za | 082 896 3547
PCA Financial Administrator: Kim Le Roux: assistant@parkmore.org.za
Website: https://www.parkmore.org.za/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParkmorePCA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parkmorecommunityassociation/
24/7 Security Services:
Website: https://www.24-7security.co.za/
011 444 2237 | info@24-7security.co.za
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