The board’s public forum began with a presentation by Kōkōmuka Harwood Community Garden chairman/treasurer Trevor Turner, speaking in support of a funding application by the group for $600 towards buying horticultural sand for raised wicking garden beds.
Mr Turner explained that the group planned to provide a community garden in the Harwood area that would inspire, educate and provide produce for local families. The overall cost of setting up the garden would be about $11,000, he said.
Later in the meeting, the board voted to grant the $600 requested to the Kōkōmuka Harwood Community Garden.
The community board also heard a presentation from Quarantine Island/Kamau Taurua Community representative Paul Clements, who gave an update on the group’s activities on the island, including pest control of mice, hosting groups and providing a keeper for the lodge.
Mr Clements said as there was now a regular ferry service between Port Chalmers and Portobello it was important for the Quarantine Island/Kamau Taurua Community to develop a detailed destination management plan.
A general discussion followed around installing a non-slip surface on the jetty, possible funding support and a proposal for new councillors and community board members to visit the island following the election.
Board members then heard a transportation update from Dunedin City Council Transport group manager Jeannine Benson, covering a broad range of topics, including the Portobello board walk, the road closure during the Emerson’s Dunedin Marathon, subsidence on Portobello Rd, the impact of earth works for the Irvine Rd subdivision, and plans for the road at Otakou.
Board members gave updates on their areas of responsibility, with Cheryl Neill highlighting that the Harwood community would like a seat on the shared path.
Lox Kellas gave a generally positive report on Peninsula roads, but urged action on some of the larger trees overhanging the road.
Edna Stevenson noted that "fabulous" information signs had gone in at Wellers Rock/Te Umukuri, but expressed disappointment that Macandrew Bay was still lacking public toilets for beach-goers.
Hoani Langsbury said the Te Rauone group had some residual funds, which it was considering putting into a shed to store play equipment for the park.
The final item on the board’s agenda was to acknowledge the achievements of retiring members Lox Kellas after 23 years and Edna Stevenson after 12 years of service to the board.
Chairman Paul Pope congratulated the pair on their 35 years of combined service, highlighting their wisdom and hard work on behalf of the community.
He moved that the board offer sincere appreciation to Mr Kellas and Mrs Stevenson for their service and best wishes for the future — which was passed unanimously.
Cr Andrew Whiley offered his congratulations to both, saying the differing viewpoints of members were important to the success of the board and sharing his admiration for the community advocacy of both.
In response, Mr Kellas said it was time to move on and give other people in the community an opportunity to have their voices heard. He highlighted the importance of tourism and that Portobello Rd was the "best it has ever been".
Mr Kellas said he had enjoyed his time on the board, where members had respected each other’s viewpoints, and felt he was "leaving it in good heart".
Mrs Stevenson said it had been a privilege to be part of the board, and she had enjoyed working with both board members and the community.
"I feel fortunate to have been in this position, and I wish everybody well for the future."
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