GB Community board meeting: Tuesday 9 December
Light pollution. Board members have received a letter and request from Dr Vic Eastman, who is concerned about the effects of light pollution. The board considers that we are very fortunate to be able to view a wonderful night sky in Golden Bay and need to take steps to try to protect this asset. This includes thinking about lighting requirements of planning processes to ensure that they are appropriate for predominantly rural situations. The board will refer Dr Eastman's concerns to the TDC environment and planning committee with a request for support.
Takaka flooding. The timing of the launch of the Golden Bay Civil Defence community response manual coincided with the Takaka Hill slips and valley flooding the previous day. It was of concern to hear from an authoritative eyewitness that the river began flowing into Takaka township at a similar time as it began flowing over the stopbank into Bridgers Hollow. The board will write to TDC advising of this reported observation and making a service request for it to be investigated by appropriate staff. The Lidar flight survey for determining accurate levels in the Bay is considered urgent and will be completed soon.
Waitapu Road flooding. Flooding of a property at 37 Waitapu Road has been reported with a recent roadway soak pit unable to cope with water volumes. It was reported that there used to be a council pipe passing through this property taking storm water to Te Kakau Stream but this is no longer operational. The board will advise TDC of the problem that is affecting private property and make a request for this to be urgently investigated and addressed.
Flooding and the after-hours service. Concern has been expressed that access to information regarding the Takaka flooding was lost once the civil emergency staff were stood down, and calls were diverted to the TDC after-hours service which was unable to provide accurate information. When the office was staffed, the information provided was excellent. The board recommended that the TDC after-hours service be kept up-to-date so that callers can be informed or provided with a local contact who can assist.
Arts strategy. With the release of the Draft Nelson Tasman Arts Strategy document, the Golden Bay Community Board will consider making a submission before the closing date of Friday 16 January.
Golden Bay Community Board Garden Competition. Judging of the 37 gardens and 55 entries in the various categories from across the Bay is underway. This is a wonderful response and the board needs to acknowledge the valuable contribution of Claire Webster in co-ordinating the competition, and also thank Claire and the other two judges, Carolyn McLellan and Jenny Borlase.
Further business
The board also discussed funding for tourist access roads, lack of car parking in Takaka township on Saturday mornings, and reserve facilities.
Public Forum issues included Labyrinth Rocks Park, Gibbs Road walkway, radio reception during civil emergencies, and bird signage.
