RIVERMEAD RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

 

Minutes of Committee Meeting 19:30 2007-01-15, Monday at Flat 141

 

Present:

Christine Girolomini [CMG] (Chair)

Tim McCormick [TM]

Irene Dunstan [ID]

Peter Walsh [PW]

John Turner [JHT]

Chris Fraser [CF]

Marie Wilkins [MW]

 

Apologies for absence: Jean Minshull, Sally Gatherall

 

Correspondence: [CMG]

 A letter from Mr. Mott of Freshwater

1.      Car parking: They agree that something must be done to address the issue. MW pointed out that the problem causes almost daily arguments, citing an example.  CMG reminded us that this is also an opportunty for RRA to get revenue, if we can get the arrangements right.  After a general discussion it was agreed that all possibilities must be considered including installing barriers and better use of the underground garage space.  CMG proposed that a system should be implemented as soon as possible, providing one primary pass per flat, with a distinct pass for visitors and in view of the shortage of space, no flat automatically entitled to a second pass.  Proposal carried.

2.      Works: Management Consultants are to be appointed for the project, in addition to Mr Beale's role.  It was agreed that we need to ask what the cost to us will be.

3.      Balconies: several letters have been received objecting to having to pay for this.

4.      Forwarded copy of a letter from Mr. J. Nichols (132).  Three pages of general complaints about Freshwater.  It suggests that "many residents have expressed agreement with Mr Nichols' opinions"  Mr. Mott has asked if there was such agreement.  No committee members can recall such agreement.  Freshwater's reply to Mr Nichols was also noted.

 

Other Business:

1.      Cost and benefit of Major Works: ID encouraged us to remember that this cost is really an investment; our service charge is less than that of many similar local premises.  CMG suggested that committee (and other residents) could ask local estate agents for valuation figures, both as the flats are now and as they are envisaged to be when works are complete (cladding, balconies).  Unanimous agreement that balcony appearance is of great importance as a valuation factor.

2.      Site Damage: MW said we need to press for repairs to the front wall opposite Princeton.

3.      Floodwall: CMG: there is already graffiti on the new wall before it is even commissioned.

4.      Leases: CF pointed out concern about the cost and difficulty of renewing leases.  There is a website giving good advice: JHT to investigate and report to next meeting.

5.      Site: MW asked if Freshwater could be pressed on one-way road markings and also moving plant-tubs to improve parking.

6.      Access: ID: a neighbour has asked about access to the new loodwall gate for wheelchair users.  There is no special wheelchair acces planned, for cost reasons.

7.      Membership: ID noted that more members ave been recuited, but not accurately documented.  CMG suggested thaat the cleaners could help by pointing out when new residents move in.  We should write a “Welcome to Rivermead” booklet. JHT undertook to work on this.  Also a newsletter would be a good idea.

 

Next Meeting: Scheduled for Monday, March 5th 19:30 in flat 108 [JHT]