A local Rate Payers' association in Koster has been granted permission to take control of the municipality's water and refuse systems "for as long as necessary". The landmark ruling puts control of key services in the hands of its citizens. Koster, together with the neighbouring towns of Derby and Swartruggens, is part of the Kgetlengrivier municipality in the North West, a province that is under administration. The interdict is the second granted to residents within a month. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Kobus Snyman of the Koster, Derby and Swartruggens tax payer's association.