COMMUNITY BOARD UPDATE

The Community Board has almost reached the end of a busy year, with its final meeting held last week. A further round of grants applications was received, and the Board was delighted to grant some ‘set up’ funds to a valuable new venture – the establishment of a Community Garden under the wing of the Ruamahanga Health Trust. This ticks many boxes including producing fresh food for the community but also will involve many locals.

Another project in town has been progressing quietly for some time. Our ‘Old Cemetery’ in Roberts Road is steeped in local history and the Board was informed of details of future plans to complete some vital repairs and improvements for this historic site. We were unanimous in being ‘right behind’ this project and will be urging the Council to do the same.

You may know that Martinborough is well on the way to being the hub of a designated ‘International Dark Sky Reserve’, and to become a member of the International Dark Sky Association. A recent meeting of supporters to establish the society, thanked the Board for being the first in town to offer universal support for this venture.

It’s great to see strings of ‘fairy lights’ adorning the main streets in town in readiness for the festive season. The Board is assisting with expenses for the traditional Christmas Parade so come along and enjoy!

Several other projects are ongoing and Board members are working behind the scenes to progress these. Sometimes it seems little is being done, but we want to remind our residents that we are always available to discuss concerns and hear new ideas. The Board is and will be the ‘first port of call’, whether amalgamation proceeds or not. And a final note on that … DO VOTE! Last date for acceptance is December 12th so to have your say, do it now.

Wishing you all an enjoyable season. Maree Roy.