Nearly the winter solstice – a time for deeper reflection and considering future changes as the whole of our community is currently doing in relation to our precious Waterfront wharf and park. We all know that there are many diverse views on: how this area should be preserved and developed; how to keep a balance between community and commercial interests and how to acknowledge the visions and plans of different groups and individuals. The Association has tried to provide an open forum for both discussing and then representing this diversity – not easy and a strategy open to pleasing/displeasing members.
The May MDCA meeting approved the purchasing of picnic tables and play equipment from the Rata Foundation grant – a start to implementing the approved plan for a “ family-friendly” park. There was also a call for the wider membership to be consulted on whether this plan and the possible location of a future boat ramp in the park are compatible. Our MDCA reps on the Waterfront Advisory Group raised the issue of health and safety requirements for those wanting to stage an event on the park, noting that these should be known by community groups in advance and querying their actual relevance. The TDC will look into this.
The TDC Long-Term Plan ( LTP) was also a focus of this meeting with members taking the opportunity to provide input into the Association’s submission to TDC. Many of these focused on the wish for the “village character” of the area to be maintained and enhanced amidst the growing population. In relation to this, there was also a call for the infrastructure especially in relation to water/sewerage and roads to be addressed so that more development could be adequately supported.
Some members raised concerns about the speed limits especially along Aranui Road and motions were passed asking TDC to consider a 40kmh limit on all roads in Mapua Village and that parking arrangements ( especially alongside access driveways into the Playcentre & the supermarket) be reconsidered in respect of safety concerns.
It was noted that the Association’s new leaflet had been distributed around the area- thanks to Chocolate Dog for their expertise and assistance in its design! The idea of a competition for an MDCA logo was raised and will be explored – watch this space!!
The revised Constitution was discussed and the pre-circulated changes approved. This document now reflects the current structure of the Association and is (hopefully!) easier to read!! Special thanks to Mary Garner and Aileen Connell for their detailed work on this project!!
The Association has agreed to be “the guardians” of the AEDs (defibrillators) in the Mapua region and a small subcommittee is being set up to monitor these: make sure they have adequate battery power and replace pads and glass panels if they are used. Please contact the MDCA secretary on info@ourmapua.org if you are interested in being part of that subcommittee. We are negotiating with St Johns to provide a community-wide training session in AEDs/CPR so that as many of us as possible know where these are and how to access and use them if needed – lives can be saved! We will advertise this meeting widely once we have the information.
Our AGM is in August and now is a great time for people to consider if serving on the Executive Committee or one of the subcommittees is something you would be willing and able to do. It is important to keep introducing new perspectives and ways of doing things – all positions are open for election and your offers and interest will be welcomed and appreciated. Again, please contact the secretary at info@ourmapua.org if this is something you could and would consider.
The next monthly General Meeting is Monday 12 June 7pm at the Mapua Community Hall – all are welcome to attend.
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