COMMUNITY BOARD NOTES

A couple of projects our board have been working on are now completed. 

Many people will have noticed the powerbox in the Square now that it has been transformed from a sombre allover green to a stunning artwork featuring a Flanders poppy design. Local artist Allison Hudson completed the painting (a ‘first’ for her) in good time for this year’s ANZAC Day, and a small ribbon cutting ceremony with our Mayor, Board members and Allison’s family on site was held.

ANZAC Day this year had special significance, being 100 years since the end of the Great War. To acknowledge this, some repairs to the Cenotaph were completed, and the park was decorated with white crosses and a superb display of reproduced photographs. Further upgrades are happening soon.

Board members [and no doubt many locals] are delighted to see much-needed repairs to some footpaths and crossings completed. Prioritising the ones in greatest need paid off!

The Board spent much time recently studying the SWDC Long Term Plan and have put forward a submission for consideration. Planning changes have also been made to our own Three Year Plan to reflect changes happening in our town. With our new Youth Representative, Maisie Arnold-Barron on board, we can implement increasing support of our younger residents. New technologies will be used to help with communication and consultation with locals – one of our most important priorities. Thirdly, the board will consider environmental concerns and the increasing effects of climate change in any plans.

A further round of Grant Applications was considered at the April meeting. We were pleased to support the Hau Ariki Marae (currently undertaking a ‘make-over’); two rural netball clubs, and our local school which has recently initiated a fitness/self-esteem programme for students. Once again, the importance of supporting our younger population was recognised.

Maree Roy.