Agenda of Fairlie Community Board Meeting

Fairlie Community Board Meeting Minutes 7 December 2017

MINUTES

Fairlie Community Board Meeting

7 December 2017

MINUTES OF Mackenzie District Council
Fairlie Community Board Meeting
HELD AT THE Council Chambers, Fairlie
ON Thursday, 7 December 2017 AT 4:30pm

PRESENT: Mr Les Blacklock (Community Board Member), Ms Carolyn Coakley (Community Board Member), Mrs Pauline Jackson (Community Board Member), Mr Damon Smith (Community Board Member), Cr Chris Clarke (Councillor) until 5:05pm

IN ATTENDANCE: Suzette van Aswegen (Chief Executive Officer), Kate Grant (Committee Administrator), Stuart Barwood (Councillor), Garth Nixon (Community Facilities Manager), Toni Morrison (Projects and Administration Manager), Bernie Haar (Assets Manager) Noel Jackson

1 Opening

The chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting.

2 Apologies

Apologies were received from Scott McKenzie (Roading Manager) and Cr Chris Clarke who has to leave the meeting at 5:00pm.

Moved: Mr Damon Smith

Seconded: Mrs Pauline Jackson

3 Public FOrum

Cr Barwood has been approached by homeowners near McLean’s Park regarding the bleeding of the oak trees along their property boundary which is causing damage to the paintwork on their houses. Cr Barwood suggested that if these were to be removed, the oak could be sold to re-invest back into maintaining and improving McLean’s Park.

Mr Nixon advised that the issue is related to honeydew from aphids which turns sticky and glue-like. He said that a large amount of insecticide would be needed to treat the trees to kill the aphids.

The Chair expressed that the best option would be to knock the trees down.

Mr Nixon said the trees provide shelter and visual amenity so suggested that the board consider the wider effects of removing the trees before a decision is made.

Cr Clarke added that even though the removal of trees can be a sensitive subject for members of the public, if they can compromise and re-invest the money back into the park it may be a worthwhile exercise. Cr Clarke requested a report to be provided on the subject a site visit should be arranged.

Mr Nixon is to provide a report to the next Community Board meeting.

4 Visitors

There were no visitors

5 Declarations Of Interest

There were no declarations of interest.

6 Reports

Committee Resolution FCB/2017/57

Moved: Ms Carolyn Coakley

Seconded: Mrs Pauline Jackson

1. That the Minutes of the Fairlie Community Board Meeting held on Thursday 2 November 2017 be received and adopted as a true and accurate record of the meeting.

Carried

7.2 Regent Street Sealing

Committee Resolution FCB/2017/58

Moved: Cr Chris Clarke

Seconded: Mrs Pauline Jackson

That the information be noted.

Carried

The Mayor advised that Council has decided not to go ahead with sealing Regent Street. He said that they have decided to wait until next year when Abley Transportation Consultants provide a plan and transportation study to Council, which will provide a better understanding of the future use and possible options.

The Chair stated that Abley are only going to do what we tell them to. He feels as though it will cost a lot of money to engage in their services and is disappointed about this decision.

The Mayor also stated that Council has decided to push ahead with the original plan for parking on Gray Street. Mr Haar tabled a copy of a preliminary parking plan which Abley produced for Gray Street and was circulated to Community Board members earlier that day.

Ms Jackson felt that the parking plan for Gray Street was not appropriate as it didn’t have provision for parking of long vehicles. Mr Haar responded and said long vehicle parking was never discussed in the initial conversations held by the Community Board.

The Chair suggested that the parking plan be amended to show less angle parking and more long vehicle parking with signage displayed. Mr Haar has agreed to get the plan amended ASAP.

The Mayor asked if pedestrian access from Gray Street through to the Main Street has been organised. Cr Clarke stated that conversations have been had with Mr Guiney and Mr Wieldraayer and they are waiting for the formal process to start. The Chair added that secure fencing and lighting for the proposed walkway would be needed and could potentially be funded by the community board.

Cr Clarke asked who is responsible for engaging with landowners for consultation. Ms van Aswegen said consultation should be undertaken by staff but can be done in conjunction with board members. Mr Haar agreed to organise for Abley Consultants to come down and meet with Council and Board members for further consultation.

7.3 Fairlie Community Board Matters Under Action

Committee Recommendation

Moved: Mrs Pauline Jackson

Seconded: Mr Damon Smith

That the information be noted.

Mr Haar stated that Rooney’s Earthmoving are currently undertaking work on the Ashwick Flat broadband cable which will hopefully solve some of the ongoing issues.

Mr Noel Jackson (member of the public) asked for an update on the proposed maintenance of the war memorial. Garth Nixon stated work on the broken blockwork will start this month and will spill into the new year. He added tile capping will be installed to stop water erosion. Mr Nixon updated the board that the bus stop shelter work would be completed shortly.

7.4 Fairlie Community Board Financial Report

Purpose of Report

For the Fairlie Community Board to note the financial performance of the Fairlie Community as a whole.

Committee Recommendation

Moved: Mrs Pauline Jackson

Seconded: Ms Carolyn Coakley

1. That the report be received.

Mr Nixon spoke to the financial report.

Mr Nixon stated that the asphalt on the Gall Street side of the community centre has been replaced with chip seal. The Chair and Ms Coakley expressed concern that they weren’t aware that the works were taking place. The Chair also asked what costs were involved in undertaking the work. Mr Nixon confirmed that the work that has already been completed cost approximately $12,000 out of the $20,000 that was budgeted. He also added that this work was approved and budgeted for in this year’s budget.

The Mayor asked for improved communication between staff, board members and the public. Mr Nixon acknowledged that staff should have advised the Community Board of the works and would do so in the future. The Mayor stated that the town budget is being managed well.

Mr Nixon added the tree budget has an overspend of $6,000 due to maintenance on trees around the town.

7.5 General Business/Information Update

Committee Resolution FCB/2017/59

Moved: Mr Damon Smith

Seconded: Ms Carolyn Coakley

That the information be noted.

Carried

Committee Resolution FCB/2017/60

Moved: Mrs Pauline Jackson

Seconded: Mr Les Blacklock

That Council fund the works and services rates remissions from the general fund.

Carried

Car Parking Safety Issue

Ms Coakley advised of her concerns regarding cars protruding onto the footpath outside the Foursquare Supermarket and Eat Restaurant and suggested a potential barrier.

Mr Haar stated that there is an easy solution in the form of wheel bump stops but they have to ensure the manoeuvre space isn’t compromised. Mr Haar has agreed to do some investigation and will advise at the next meeting of his findings.

Rates Remission Policy

Ms Jackson stated that Council has recently changed its policy on Rates Remissions which has impacted the district’s communities, in particular the Fairlie community. For Fairlie, there is $8,000 that is not able to be used by the Fairlie community, rather it is having to be used to fund the Works and Services rate remissions. Ms Jackson stated that Fairlie’s rates are being burdened by 2%, Tekapo and Twizel’s by 0.001% and rural rates by 0.002%. She believes there needs to be further investigation into the funding of these Rates Remissions to make it fair for all ratepayers and believes it should be funded district wide.

7.6 Ward Members Report/ Report From Members of the Board

Committee Resolution FCB/2017/61

Moved: Ms Carolyn Coakley

Seconded: Mrs Pauline Jackson

That the information be noted.

Carried

Cr Clarke stated that the supporting documents for the long term plan have been finalised and are available on Council’s website. Cr Clarke asked for these documents to be circulated to Community Board members.

Cr Clarke provided an update on the rating situation for the Mackenzie Rugby and Bowling Clubs. He added that Council had met this morning with parties involved and they are working together to find a solution. The Mayor and Cr Clarke agreed that Council needs to be fair across the board.

The Meeting closed at 5:40pm.

...................................................

CHAIRPERSON

Fairlie Community Board Meeting Agenda 1 February 2018

7.2 Fairlie Community Board Matters Under Action

File Reference: PAD

Author: Arlene Goss, Committee Administrator (Temp)

Authoriser: Suzette van Aswegen, Chief Executive Officer

Attachments: l

Staff Recommendations

That the information be noted.

FAIRLIE COMMUNITY BOARD MATTERS UNDER ACTION:

1. Regent Street: The Community Board resolved that the Fairlie Community Board recommend to Council that the full width of Regent Street be sealed from Main Street to the first intersection in year one of the long term plan 2018-2028. The Mayor advised that Council has decided not to go ahead with sealing Regent Street. He said that they have decided to wait until next year when Abley Transportation Consultants provide a plan and transportation study to Council, which will provide a better understanding of the future use and possible options.

2. Gray Street: Council has decided to push ahead with the original plan for parking on Gray Street. Mr Haar tabled a copy of a preliminary parking plan which Abley produced for Gray Street. The Chair suggested that the parking plan be amended to show less angle parking and more long vehicle parking with signage displayed. Mr Haar has agreed to get the plan amended ASAP. Mr Haar will organise for Abley Consultants to come down and meet with Council and Board members for further consultation.

3. Proposed Electric Car Station: Mr Nixon reported all cables were connected and functioning. He added final road marking would be required.

4. Bus Stop Shelter: Mr Nixon reported NZTA had approved the bus shelter and funding would be supplied through the Heartlands Resource Centre. Work to begin shortly.

5. Broadband Options: Mr Haar stated that Rooney’s Earthmoving are currently undertaking work on the Ashwick Flat broadband cable which will hopefully solve some of the ongoing issues.

6. Fairlie Skateboard and Scooter Park: The Skatepark had raised $8,000 towards designs and a building quote. Once these plans and quote had been accepted investigation for external funding sources would begin.

7. Drinking Fountain and Cigarette Butt Receptacle: Cr Clarke reported removal of earth from planter boxes would allow for the installation of the drinking fountain.

8. War Memorial Maintenance: Work on the broken blockwork will start this month and will spill into the new year. Tile capping will be installed to stop water erosion.

9. Town Works Update and Priority Works: The Community Board requested information updates regarding works being carried out around Town regularly, this would enable Board members to keep the Community informed when new works were started.

10. Abley Transportation Strategy: Mr McKenzie would liaise with Mr Noon to set a date for a casual workshop including a walk around Town to discuss transportation needs. He added a way finding study had taken place for Fairlie.

11. Seating around Fairlie Township: Cr Clarke reported three locations would receive seating over summer on a trial basis. Mr Nixon reported new seating had been installed at Allandale Bridge, he said the Community Board had painted all seats in the Community and asked the Community Board would to consider replacing some old seats at McLean Park.

The Chair felt the condition of tables and chairs on Denmark Street required attention. He added bench seating on the Main Street also could be an option.

The Community Board agreed Denmark Street would be a preferred option and agreed the current trial of Town seats would require new seating be arranged for the Council Courtyard area.

12. Village Green History Panel: Mrs Thomson recommended an information panel be displayed on the Village Green detailing the Village Greens rich history. She noted Mr Sutherland would provide the historical information.

13. Street Lighting: Mr Haar said an application had been submitted to NZTA to update the Districts Street lighting. He added new locations for lights would be investigated and dark spots improved. The Community Board were asked to provide feedback to Mr Haar regarding dark spots and high need areas around Fairlie. The Chair suggested feedback requested from the community via the Accessible regarding faulty streetlights.

14. Oak Trees McLean’s Park: Cr Barwood has been approached by homeowners near McLean’s Park regarding the bleeding of the oak trees along their property boundary which is causing damage to the paintwork on their houses. Mr Nixon is to provide a report to the next Community Board meeting.

15. Car Parking Safety Issue: Ms Coakley advised of her concerns regarding cars protruding onto the footpath outside the Foursquare Supermarket and Eat Restaurant and suggested a potential barrier. Mr Haar has agreed to do some investigation and will advise at the next meeting of his findings.

Suzette van Aswegen

Chief Executive Officer

Fairlie Community Board Meeting Agenda 1 February 2018

7.4 McLean Park Oak Trees Nuisance

File Reference: WAS 3/3

Author: Garth Nixon, Community Facilities Manager

Authoriser: Suzette van Aswegen, Chief Executive Officer

Attachments: 1. Tree Policy ⇩

Purpose of Report

For the Fairlie Community Board to consider options to deal with the nuisance caused by aphids in the neighbouring Oak trees.

Staff Recommendations

1. That the report be received.

2. That the Fairlie Community Board supports Option 4, to work further with the neighbour towards an effective long term solution.

Background

Extract from the book “Fairlie 1866 to 2000”.

‘McLean Park is on State Highway 8 at the southern approach to Fairlie. It too was gifted to the Town by the widow of Alan McLean in 1917 in his memory. The old trees in McLean Park are a constant reminder of the wisdom and foresight of the men and women long gone who were responsible for the legacy of magnificent trees that Fairlie enjoys today.’

A resident has raised the issue of the sticky rain from the neighbouring trees and the impact on their property.

This issue is caused by the English Oak aphid infestation feeding on the new growth of the oak trees and their excretion known as honeydew (a clear sugary sticky liquid). The problem is at its worst in November and December and tails off as the new growth matures.

As the honeydew ages it attracts a black mould known as sooty mould which may build up over years.

The honey dew is water soluble and will wash off with water but the older it gets and the more mould growth, the harder it is to remove.

The impact that the honey dew will have on this property is it will coat windows, cars, roofs and washing with a light sticky coating. This will affect more properties than the immediate neighbours, however it is likely that the immediate properties will get the worst of it.

There are other areas in Fairlie that are afflicted by the same problem where these oaks grow. These are:

· Main Street and Railway Place opposite Gibsons Engineering, coating the road signs and parked vehicles in sticky residue.

· The residue also affects the Village Green impacting the public toilets, the railway carriage, picnic shelters and parked cars.

· Strathconan Park, School Road where the residence is impacting on neighbouring properties.

Photographs of the trees and the adjacent property will be shown at the meeting.

Policy Status

The Council’s Tree Policy provides some guidance on nuisance.

There are a number of trees listed in the District Plan in McLean Park. These Oak trees are not amongst them.

Significance of Decision

If removal is considered an option it would trigger the Significance and Engagement Policy. Parks and Reserves are considered to be significant assets and significant removals would trigger public interest.

Options

Option 1 - Do nothing. The problem will have existed for many years and either be dealt with by rain or the residents washing their houses and vehicles.

Option 2 - Attempt to control the aphids to eliminate the issue. This has yet to be tried but installing insecticide laced plugs into the bark of the tree prior to Spring so that the insecticide would be translocated through the tree killing aphids. This could be undertaken but it would be relatively low cost however it would be experimental. Aerial spraying of the tree should not be considered as control over the spread of the insecticide would be difficult and likely to be controversial. The other issue not tested here is possible toxicity to bees that take pollen from the oaks which are a significant contributor in the spring.

Option 3 - Removal of the trees in the immediate vicinity. Removal of the ten trees immediately to the south of the house would reduce the volume of the honey dew. It would not eliminate the problem as the trees to the south are likely to still be afflicted by the problem. The removed trees will also have been screening the house from those trees behind. Total removal will have a significant impact on the look and feel of McLean Park and it will also impact on the existing trees within the Park.

Option 4 – Develop an alternative solution with the neighbour that may involve pruning, assistance and or compensation.

Considerations

Legal

Property Law Act and nuisance. The neighbour may choose to lay a nuisance claim on Council that could involve some costs be that legal fees or resolution of the issue.

Financial

Early indications are that we would be unlikely to recover the removal cost through the sale of the wood be it firewood or for milling.

Other

There will be significant public interest in these trees and the impact on McLean Park if they are removed.

There is some work that could be undertaken on the trees by reducing their crown in the vicinity of the neighbouring property but this will not significantly impact on the honey dew problem. This would however help with other issues.

The nuisance level is significant this year due to the wetter winter after a dry spell and significant new grow. The honey dew impacts for a short time, however if it is not dealt with it will build up over time.

The owner states that when he purchased the house ten years ago the roof was freshly painted. The build up of honey dew and sooty mould has destroyed the paint. That said, is ten years a reasonable time frame for roof paint? If the roof was washed annually as paint manufacturers recommend would it be in the same state?

These trees are significant trees in the Fairlie landscape and in the context of McLean Park any removals should be considered as a significant activity and would need formal consultation due to the high level of public interest.

I have also discussed this issue with the neighbour on the Gall Street end of the property. They stated that they love the trees and accept the honey dew and the interim problem is causes. They would not like to see the trees removed.

Conclusion

The trees are causing nuisance to this specific neighbour and the removal of the trees is likely to initiate significant public interest and cost. The best outcome for Fairlie would be to develop a solution around option four which would retain the trees.

Suzette van Aswegen

Chief Executive Officer

Fairlie Community Board Meeting Agenda 1 February 2018

Mackenzie District Council

Tree Policy

May 2006

Council rules for Planting, Pruning and Removal of trees on Council Reserve and Road Reserves and trees list in the District Plan

1 Introduction

1.1 The purpose of the policy is to recognise the important role that amenity trees play in our environment and to set guidelines for their pruning, planting and removal.

1.2 All trees on road reserve are the property of the Council. Trees that have been planted by adjoining landowners with the approval of the Council shall be maintained and trimmed by the adjoining landowner in accordance with the conditions of approval or as otherwise directed by the Council.

1.3 Where a significant tree requires removal the appropriate Community Board or Council will be advised prior to any work being undertaken.

1.4 Self propagating trees (wilding trees), for example, wild fruit trees, pines, willows, and sycamores can be a nuisance and will generally be controlled or removed when they impact upon Council roads or reserves

1.5 Good specimens of other species can make a worthwhile contribution to the landscape of the District and will be retained unless there is good reason for their removal.

1.6 This Policy does not apply to State Highways.

1.7 This Policy shall apply from the date of its adoption by Council

2 Law

2.1 Local Government Act 1974. 316. - Property in Roads

(1) Subject to section 318 of this Act, all roads and the soil thereof, and all materials of which they are composed, shall by force of this section vest in fee simple in the council of the district in which they are situated. There shall also vest in the council all materials placed or laid on any road in order to be used for the purposes thereof.

2.2 Local Government Act 1974. Section 357 - Damage to Roads

Every person commits an offence who, not being authorised by the Council, or by or under any Act, -

(a) Encroaches on a road by making or erecting any building, fence, ditch or other obstacle or work of any kind upon, over, or under the road, or by planting any tree or shrub thereon.

2.3 The Council has significant powers under the Local Government Act 1974 and Public Works Act 1981 to order the cutting down, lowering or trimming of trees on, overhanging or adjacent to road reserves.

2.4 The Property Law Act 1975 says that owners are responsible for any nuisance or damage their trees cause to neighbours

2.5 Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003

The purpose of these regulations is to protect the security of the supply of electricity, and the safety of the public by:

(a) prescribing distances from electrical conductors within which trees must not encroach; and

(b) setting rules about who has responsibility for cutting or trimming trees that encroach on electrical conductors; and

(d) providing an arbitration system to resolve disputes between works owners and tree owners about the operation of these regulations.

3.0 Principles Governing the Pruning and Removal of Trees on Roads and Reserves

3.1 Pruning

Trees on Council reserves will be pruned in accordance with the Council’s

policy, generally to:

· Abate a nuisance

· Ensure the trees do not create a hazard for traffic or pedestrians

· Prevent or mitigate damage to pipes or power lines

· Manage risk with larger ageing trees

· Meet the specification for the removal of inappropriate tree species

· Meet any obligations Council has as a good neighbour

· Prevent or stop damage to Council and private assets

· Maintain specified clearances over roads, driveways and around street and traffic lights and power wires

· To preserve significant public viewing corridors as seen from the road or footpath

3.2 Tree topping

As a rule Council will not ‘top trees’, i.e. reduce their height.

In exceptional circumstances crown reduction may be considered when:

· Tree topping or regular height reduction has been carried out on a particular tree in the past and other management options are not considered sensible.

· For the clearance of high voltage services or to meet other statutory requirements

· If the tree or trees form part of a formally planted and maintained hedge

· Where the Council has no specific interest in the future maintenance of the tree or trees

3.3 Tree Removal

· Trees will not generally be removed to maintain private views, remove shading or for the control of leaf litter.

· Trees that are dead, dying, or storm damaged will be removed as a priority.

· Tree removal may be undertaken where significant public views from the road and footpath are compromised.

· Tree removal may be undertaken to eliminate an ice hazard where trees shade the road.

There is a small range of tree species that will be proactively removed due to the

following factors:

· rapid growth rates

· eventual large size of the tree (in relation to the site)

· prolific at self-seeding

· pose a major risk when ageing

· often colonise or grow on inappropriate sites

· considered a pest plant

4.0 Cost recovery for Discretionary Work, Storm Damage and Potential

Hazards

Where Council agrees that a tree is blocking a view, or shading a property by the occupier of the property and Council carries out work on the tree the following criteria will apply to cost recovery for the work:

4.1 Full cost recovery

Re-instatement of views where this is considered to be work of a discretionary nature.

Mitigating the effects of shading where this is considered to be work of a discretionary nature.

Cost recovery, will be agreed to by both parties before work commences.

4.2 No cost recovery

Essential work to mitigate an actual or potential hazard.

4.3 Ability to waive cost recovery

Council will consider the following factors when exercising discretion in relation to cost recovery, or the requirement to mitigate a nuisance:

· the level of direct benefit to the applicant or Council as a result of the work

· the priority or the need for the work.

· The need for assistance as determined by the Community Board or Council

4.4 Replacement Planting

Where the work is of a discretionary nature and cost recovery is appropriate, Council may also require an additional contribution for replacement planting. Replacement of trees by the applicant will not generally be considered due to the ongoing maintenance requirement.

5.0 Tree management

5.1 Shading and re-instatement of views

Council will be a ‘good neighbour’ and will assess Council owned trees, and undertake work to mitigate a nuisance as defined by The Property Law Act 1975 in response to requests from the occupiers of properties that are affected by trees on reserves. The cost of the work will be recovered in accordance with this policy.

The following factors determine the significance of the issue and will be considered when making decisions on requests for work on trees from the public or a landowner/occupier:

· The wider community’s interests in the maintenance of an aesthetically pleasing environment.

· The value of the tree as a public amenity, including the ability to provide shelter from wind,

· The likely effect (if any) of the removal or trimming on ground stability or the stability of other trees.

· The historical, cultural, botanical or scientific significance (if any) of the tree.

· The length of time the property owner has resided in the property. Often the applicant has recently purchased the property and was aware of the trees at the time of purchase.

Council will give full consideration to residents’ concerns

5.2 Overhead Wires

Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 define the requirements for works associated with trees and overhead power wires. However, as the owner of these trees, Council will deal with requests for line clearance on an individual basis.

The permission of Council must be obtained in advance of carrying out any pruning or removal of trees to clear overhead wires from Council land

5.3 Clearance and Repair of Drains

Where a significant tree is blocking a drain on reserve, the tree takes precedence.

For trees that are not significant trees, the drainage infrastructure will take precedence.

Where a significant tree is blocking a drain the general practice will be to move and relay the drain.

Cost recovery will be at the discretion of Council.

In general there will be no cost recovery for:

· repairs to private drains on reserve (i.e. laterals from private properties to the mains),

· work on private property with the agreement of the property owner, if the fault originated from a Council tree, and

· work where a tree on private property is damaging a public main (percentage of public mains are on private property).

Note: Council does not accept liability for damage by tree roots to drives and pathways where these cross reserves.

5.4 Removal of Large Ageing Trees

Where Council considers large trees to be inappropriate or high risk, the trees will be added to a list of larger trees for removal and prioritised by their level of risk.

Assessment criteria:

· the condition of the trees,

· previous failure history,

· the potential damage or target if the tree was to fail, the tree species and

· topography or other factors specific to the site.

5.5 Storms and Clearance of Trees

The main priority during storms is to keep roads clear and open. Private access ways and drives are generally given a lower priority.

Private trees will be cleared from roads but the cost of the work will be recovered from the tree owner.

Cost must be agreed to before work is commenced.

6.0 Planting of Trees on Road Verge

6.1 Only plantings that offer some aesthetic value will be considered. Self propagating species will not be permitted. Private individuals must consult with Council before any planting is done.

6.2 To avoid winter shading of the road, plantings will generally only be permitted on the southern side of sections of roads aligned north-west to south-east through to south-west to north-east.

6.3 The applicant shall contact all utility providers to determine the presence and location of underground and overhead services, (for example; power, telephone, water) and also land survey marks. The applicant shall be responsible for any damage done to underground and overhead services and survey marks.

Note: Network South advises that trees must be trimmed when they come within a 4m vertical separation distance from power wires. If they become too close to the wires they will be trimmed by the network operator, at the applicants cost.

6.4 All plantings shall be a minimum of 5.0m from the road edge.

6.5 Plantings shall be of species with a mature height not exceeding 5.0m, and shall be spaced not closer than 5.0m apart.

6.6 Issues including, but not limited to, sight distance, distance from existing access ways, drainage, known safety concerns, and possible road upgrade plans shall be considered by the Council when considering applications.

7.0 Trees on Neighbouring Property that Causes a Nuisance

7.1 Trees on adjacent private property may be ordered by the Council to be cut down, lowered, or trimmed when they overhang or overshadow a road/footpath to such an extent that they cause damage to the road/footpath or obstruct use of the road/footpath or obstruct the maintenance of the road/footpath.

7.2 When planting trees within 5 metres of Council property e.g. road verge or footpaths, Section 7.1 should be considered. If in doubt, a Council staff member should be asked to give guidance of the type of tree to be planted and the distance the tree is to be planted from adjoining boundaries e.g. road verges or footpaths,

8.0 Heritage trees

Council’s District Plan identifies and provides protection for heritage trees, specimen trees or groups of trees.

Specifically, the plan decrees the following to be discretionary activities unless they are conducted in accordance of an approved management plan

Ø the removal of any protected tree;

Ø the significant trimming of any protected tree;

Ø the construction of any building or laying of any underground or overhead services with 5m of any protected tree;

Ø paving within 0.5 metres of the base of any protected tree.

These provisions apply to protected trees regardless of whether they are on private or public land.

Attachments:

· Protected Trees Schedule From The District Plan

· District Plan, Appendix O - Other Significant Trees

Fairlie Community Board Meeting Agenda 1 February 2018

7.5 Use of Mackenzie Community Centre

File Reference: WAS 7/4

Author: Garth Nixon, Community Facilities Manager

Authoriser: Suzette van Aswegen, Chief Executive Officer

Attachments: Nil

Purpose of Report

For the Community Board to consider the request by staff to use the Mackenzie Community Centre Stadium free of charge for lunchtime exercise.

Staff Recommendations

1. That the report be received.

2. That the Fairlie Community Board approve the trial of staff usage of the stadium for a six month period.

Background

A Mackenzie District Council staff member has suggested the Stadium be made available to staff during lunchtime, for exercising. It is envisaged that it could be used for basketball or indoor soccer type activities.

The health and wellbeing of staff is very important, and if we were able to offer the Stadium to staff on a regular basis it would go a long way to promoting this.

A large proportion of our staff are Timaru based, and during their one hour lunchbreak struggle to fill in time. The offer of activities in the Stadium would be of benefit to them.

At the time of writing this report, the staff have not been advised of the proposal of having the Stadium available to them for lunchtime sport so it is unclear of the numbers of staff who would take up this offer.

It is envisaged that it would be trialled for six months before making a decision on whether to continue with this or not. All other bookings of the Stadium would take priority over the Council staff use.

Policy Status

Not applicable.

Significance of Decision

Not considered to be significant in terms of the Significance and Engagement Policy.

Options

There are two options available to the Community Board:

1. Decline the request from Mackenzie District Council for staff to use the Stadium in the Mackenzie Community Centre, free of charge.

2. Approve the request from Mackenzie District Council for staff to use the Stadium in the Mackenzie Community Centre, at a negotiated rate.

The Community Centre is cleaned weekly regardless of how many users have used it during that week. The cleaning is funded by the Fairlie Community Board rate.

There are showers in the Community Centre which could be made available to staff should they chose to shower after exercising. The showers are cleaned weekly by the cleaners regardless of how many users have showered in that week.

Considerations

Legal

Not applicable.

Financial

The cost to hire the Stadium for a regular user is $16.80 per hour, which includes the use of the showers.

Other

The use of the Stadium by staff will be reviewed in six months time to see if it is worthwhile to continue this offer.

Conclusion

The Community Centre Stadium is largely unused by other organisations during the lunch hour, and would be worthwhile for staff to use this as part of the Council’s promotion of health and wellbeing for its employees.

Suzette van Aswegen

Chief Executive Officer