What happened in December?
FORUM
The MDCA December 2019 meeting covered topics and suggestions introduced by members which included:
- TDC Review of the Moutere/Tasman Ward Reserve Management Plan –this includes 155 parks/reserves whose classification determines their usage. The previous plan was devised in 2000 so this is an important opportunity for the community to be involved in presenting ideas to TDC for the protection, development and enhancement of these parks/reserves. The timeline for submissions has been extended to the end of March 2020. Tim King ( Mayor) noted that much of the land currently held as reserve is for “ paper roads” & “”walking access”. The review of the plan is to consider if current “ fee simple” land should be reclassified as” reserve” for protection. He stressed that TDC has no intention of selling any reserve land. The February MDCA monthly meeting will provide relevant maps and a timeslot for community input.
- Lake Aranui –revisiting a suggestion made 6years ago to develop this between Seaton Valley Road & Stafford Drive with a raisable weir to manage downfall and king tide events. This will be posted for feedback on MDCA’s postbook as an individual’s suggestion
- Lessening of water access for Seaton Valley Road resident after development of deep bores in Māpua Rise– the issue had been raised with TDC with a request to go onto the public water scheme. Resident very unhappy with response. Christine McKenzie ( Ward Councillor) offered a private conversation after the meeting while Tim King ( TDC Mayor) noted the TDC policy that “ the impact [of access to water]on houses and people takes priority rather than being a nuisance for land /gardens”.
WARD COUNCILLORS’ REPORT
It was noted that at the February 2020 MDCA meeting, all 3 Ward Councillors and the Mayor will present their programme and priorities for the coming year as the Hot Topic for the meeting.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Bruno Lemke ( Social Media Manager) noted that the presentation by the Dale Vercoe Community Care Trust had 70 online viewers which was an encouraging indication that meetings were reaching & involving more than those physically attending. The poster for the meeting on the issue of “Say no to 5-G” had 900+ hits with some of the personal responses needing to be censored. It was agreed that this issue would be discussed at the Jan Exec meeting so that attendees at the MDCA February monthly meeting could discuss and create policies on Facebook postings Bruno invited further postings from members and any suggestions for change
MĀPUA WATERFRONT & WHARF
Marion Satherley ( MDCA rep on the Māpua Waterfront Working Group- MMWG) ) noted that construction on the Ngaio Tree Reserve development would now begin in August 2020 as there was still lots of work to do on archaeological reports. No discussion on developments at Grossis Point would happen until Feb 2020
MĀPUA RESERVE PLAYGROUND UPGRADE
Marion noted that the plan for this was for no grass; more seating & an enlarged play area by moving the Great Taste Trail pathway. Glen Thorne (TDC) is keen to order the new equipment. The idea of offering current facilities and equipment from the playground to local schools was raised but acknowledged that stricter safety regulations may not allow these to be accepted.
Bruno will put the plan on Facebook for community information and comment
DOMINION FLATS ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT
Helen Bibby commented on the positive impact of recent rain on growth and also that there had been further work on new tracks to create easier and wider access. She encouraged others to join the regular working group on Tuesday mornings for weeding and plantings
COMMUNITY WELLBEING/TRANSPORTATION
Transport working group– the process for police vetting of those who have offered as drivers is being set up The community was asked for suggestions on potential local vans for use as community transport. There will also be a focus on ways of reaching and including housebound residents in any future planning .
Health working group– Vicki Stocker noted the group was now researching the actual availability of the local services listed by NMDHB and will then publicize the results
Social connectedness – ongoing discussion and research are happening around the idea of a Community Hub for visiting services to use ( see Motueka Community House)
WATER /ENVIRONMENT
Bruno Lemke reported from the Ruby Bay Coastal Homeowners’ Group – noting that they were still waiting for the report from Rob O’ Grady ( TDC Engineering Project Manager) after the meeting with local residents. Note that this has now been received & will be addressed in this coming year
ROADS & PATHWAYS
Wayne Chisnall reported that :
- A final decision from the current review on speed limits would be made in December . Christine McKenzie will follow this up with Chris Choke
AN AED IN RUBY BAY ?
Wayne Chisnall apologized for the temporary closure of the “Give a little “ Page noting that it has now been reset up for a further 3 months, He noted that $2,700 needed to be raised and that the subcommittee was contemplating a letter-drop in the area to encourage further donations .Wayne also commented on the surprising theft of the on-site poster encouraging residents to donate !!
FUTURE HOT TOPICS:
Possibilities for 2020 are: –
February – Ward Councillors and Mayor – priorities and focus for the year
March-Anna Gantly on the Reserve Management Plan review; Ruby Coast Initiative Trust- 3rd sculpture
April- upgrade of sewage/waste water
May – Dawn Chorus project
GENERAL BUSINESS
Public seating-noted the need for a “resting spot” for walkers between Ruby Bay & Māpua; currently considering 1 seat outside the Talley property and 1 opposite the old Hills Church . Proposal to be sent to Steve Elkington ( as sites are on road reserve) TDC will consult with residents and check if TDC will supply required concrete slab for seats to be set into. David Kemp suggested “ socialized seating” –clusters of seats providing spaces to socialize
Executive members– the MDCA Exec is currently 3 members short- offers were sought
Season’s greetings – the Chair wished all members and those attending best wishes for the holiday and New Year
Be sure to attend our next monthly meeting: ( first for 2020)
Monday, 10 February at 7 PM, Bill Marris Room, Mapua Hall- all welcome
MDCA works closely with TDC to ensure our community functions in a way that suits the majority of our residents. To have a vote that counts, become a financial member of MDCA by simply paying a $10 membership fee to our NBS account 03-1354-0356471-00 with your name & phone number as a reference.
Submitted by: Elena Meredith (MDCA Exec)