The Lawrence-Tuapeka Community Board met in Lawrence yesterday afternoon, to discuss matters including a letter from community stalwart Maureen Cummings.
In her letter to the board, dated August 4, Mrs Cummings said she, other residents and visitors to Lawrence had noticed a "gradual deterioration" of the town’s main street.
She went on to list six features of concern ranging from "eyesore" buildings, to the lapse of beautifying hanging baskets, tended in the past by volunteers.
Uppermost among her concerns was a building at the northern entrance to Lawrence, on State Highway 8.
Mrs Cummings described the building as "falling to pieces", and said it spoiled first impressions of those entering the town from Central Otago.
Board members agreed with her sentiments regarding the building, but questioned further criticisms.
"That’s the first building that makes you think that something different is going on [with the streetscape] in Lawrence.
"Unfortunately it’s only got worse and worse since then, and probably needs addressing now," he said.
Mr Cotton raised the possibility of harnessing a council bylaw, addressing "abandoned or vacant buildings".
However, others on the board suggested a more co-operative approach might initially be more effective.
After further discussion, the board moved to communicate its concerns to the building owner, and establish plans for its upkeep.
More controversial was Mrs Cummings’ opinion regarding the grey tones of the town’s public toilet block, which she described as "uninspiring and depressing".
Board member Matt Little said Mrs Cummings’ view was simply a matter of opinion.
Mr Cotton agreed, saying that and other items listed in her letter were "preferences", and open to debate.
However, members were in general agreement that townspeople — the board and Mrs Cummings included — should be encouraged to take more active pride in their town.
Clutha District Lawrence-Tuapeka ward councillor Jock Martin said the board always preferred suggestions for improvement, over criticisms.
The board would reply to Mrs Cummings, encouraging her to apply for funding to refresh the town’s hanging baskets.
