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Camposol, Sector D Community Group, Information and updates.
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THE 2009 REPORT OF THE SECTOR D COMMUNITY GROUP The Chairman concluded by saying he would like to finish by saying that if any member knew of any area that you consider needs attention then please speak to John and Mike tonight or get in touch with any committee member at any time Bob also gave a resume of the Neighbourhood Watch group activities and stressed that each poligono should organise their own Watch. The Neighbourhood Watch had been an outstanding success and was continuing to grow in strength. If any group needed help from the Neighbourhood Watch Committee it was available. John Holderness and Mike Margiotta took the meeting through their plans for work over the next few months. It was further stated that if any member had ideas or suggestions they would be most welcome. Lloyd Jones asked if MASA had been invoiced for the work carried out on the storm drains. Bob confirmed he had raised an invoice and handed it in to MASA. He asked Lloyd not to hold his breath waiting for a reply or payment. There were another couple of items raised by members which Bob said he would pass on to the CRA committee as it was more likely they would be able to help. They were missing street names and dumping on MASA´S yard. There being no further business the meeting closed. CLICK HERE to see the information about the groups ongoing activities, which is located in the clubs and societies directory.
Tuesday 1st December 2009
The Chairman, Mick Drummond opened the meeting and welcomed around 150 members to the SECTOR D Community Group General Meeting.
He introduced the two areas covered by the group; gardening and neighbourhood watch and introduced the committee's responsible for both functions.
He thanked the members for attending and, on behalf of the Committee, extended their warmest congratulations and thanks for the donations they had given throughout the past 12 months. These donations allow us to continue improving the look of Sector D.
Bob will present to you a précised version of our accounts that will show you the figures of the money raised through donations, dances and raffles, how the money has been spent, our current balance and our future projects. We have also put together a few photographs of some of the work we have done.
Mick felt that recognition should be given to Zoe & Lawrence of Simplynetworking.com who helped us in so many ways, especially during our early months. They organised sponsorship for some roundabouts and areas and obtained discounts for us on materials. They also donated plants and much needed advice. The Chairman asked the meeting to show their appreciation. A round of applause followed.
The group still have a couple of roundabouts that although done, still require sponsors and our project managers are working on this.
Resulting from our initial work we have gained momentum in forming not only a gardening and neighbourhood watch group but a community group and through our dances and BBQ's that occasionally follow our work days, we have all made many new friends.
We have had four very successful dances thanks to our Entertainment Committee - well done, Les, Lin and Marion assisted by Joan and Nev.
They have asked if you'd like them to organise Theme Nights, such as a Rod Stewart Night, an Elvis Night etc. This was agreed by all present. We are also still looking for raffle prizes for the Dance Night.
We have had a couple of BBQs after our Friday work with sausages provided by the English Butcher and bread sticks by Quicksave, thanks again to both supporters.
Our next dance is our Christmas Dinner and Dance on the 11th December. Tickets are still on sale.
We have been offered an evening's Carol Singing to be held on the 21st December at the triangular roundabout at 1700 hrs. There will be mince pies and mulled wine provided by the committee.
As you probably know, we spent 900 Euros to clear the area around the storm drains opposite D7. This was agreed by all the committee members as the silt was blocking the pipes and the rainwater was causing a terrible flood on the field that then overflowed into the streets right through D. The proof that we had taken the correct action was evident only two weeks later when we had the worst rainfall for many years. HOWEVER this was a one off task of such dimension and although we have discussed the possibility of repairing potholes and small damaged areas we are not civil engineers and cannot even contemplate the major damage to roads. We are, with the help of the CRA, trying to get the Council to do something. Also we are not able to "police" the residents of D who allow their pets to foul our pavements and public areas or the ignorant people who dump mattresses and settees at the bins.
With the donations that you have given we have purchased two strimmers to help us with clearing heavily weeded areas. If any resident wishes to borrow these then please contact Mick or John Holderness. We have also purchased a 2 tonne double wheel based trailer and we intend providing the residents of D with a service that will remove garden rubbish for burning/composting. We are also discussing and considering other services that we can provide for all on Sector D.
We have introduced membership cards and one of the benefits is a 15 euro reduction in the cost of the spa at the hotel. We intend expanding the discount scheme to other suppliers for the benefit of members. More details as we develop the discount scheme.
We have also made a donation to our Scouts and Guides; who have helped us in the past, they have passed on their thanks.
On the 18th November Mick Drummond and Bob Owen along with representatives from Sectors A, B, and C attended a meeting with members of the Mazarron Council. The meeting brought together all gardening groups and the council resulting in very positive decisions being made. The council would supply plants and trees and hopefully a work party with machines. The groups would supply volunteers to assist with the work required. The groups will have a pre meeting prior to our next meeting with the council to decide where we should commence the work. More details as soon as we decide. The council also agreed to look into the whole problem with disposal of garden waste.
The members were asked to confirm that they were happy with the committee and that they would like them to continue. All present agreed to this.
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The Chairman then handed the meeting over to Bob Owen.
Bob took the members through the finances of the group, explaining items of expenditure to them. At its conclusion the members accepted the finance report.
SECTOR D COMMUNITY GROUP
MEETING NOTES, 5TH OCTOBER 2009-10-06
Laurie Lewis sent apologies for not attending.
The Xmas dance was to be held on 11th Dec not 5th as previously reported
Bob explained the finance report. Tom Wills confirmed that he was holding 497.00 euros not previously entered into the accounts .This figure would be added next month and once added would show that our balance of cash to be 3275.69 euros.
Linda reported that tickets for the Halloween dance had almost sold out, there being only 20 left. Food for the dance would be supplied by the fund raising committee and consist of nibbles and dips. Fancy dress was optional but it was hoped that many would enter the spirit of the event and “dress up”. A prize would be made for the best costumes on the night.
A lengthy debate followed on the recent heavy rains and damage caused. It was agreed by all that funds would be made available to address some of the problems. Cleaning up mud on the roads should be the responsibility of individual poligonos.
A sub committee consisting of Tony, Joan, John and Mike would look at the areas concerned and report back to the next meeting.
The road sweeper mentioned at a previous meeting would be investigated again .Bob would liaise with Greg Green to approach Miguel about the possibility of using Masa’s machine.
John & Mike outlined the work for the following 8 weeks. Membrane and gravel will be laid on the roadside of D11,16,21,22,26,35,32 and D20. Work to complete repairs to the irrigation system will be organised by Mick.
The car boot at Canadas started off well with the stall being set up at 6.30am, Shortly after, a flash of lightning followed by the worst rain storm in recent history ruined the whole event and the volunteers retired soaked to the skin. The clothes remaining were to be donated to a local charity.
In spite of that they raised 44 euros. A tremendous effort in very difficult circumstances. Well done all.
Two Carol Singing events are being organised for the 21st and 23rd of December by the community group involving the Camposol Fiesta Committee, by the triangle on D. The community group would organise a social function around this event to include mulled wine, mince pies etc. More details to follow at a later date.
Bob asked that a copy of the notes be put on the notice board to keep residents aware of our activities. Mike agreed to do this.
Lin offered to do the weekly work schedule notice board for the following few weeks.
Lloyd raised the subject of the strimmer that had been authorised at a previous meeting. It was decided that it was still needed so Mick Drummond volunteered to go to Leroy Merlin to get one.
Neighbourhood Watch.
Mick Drummond offered to design a logo for printing the street light signs. To be reviewed at the next meeting.
No other problems were reported.
The next meeting will be on 2nd November, 5pm in the golf club.
Bob Owen
Secretary/Treasurer.
Meeting notes, 7th Sept 2009
Apologies received from Tony Hagan, Frank Bell and Tom & Helen Wills.
Mick asked if the strimmer authorised at the last meeting had been purchased. Tom Wills had offered to go to buy it but was not present to answer. Mick would ring him to clarify.
Bob reported that the storm drains had been cleared to everyone’s relief. It had cost 900 Euros regarded by everyone as money well spent. Lloyd had suggested sending a bill to MASA but after lengthy discussion it was decided that Bob would raise an invoice and ask Greg Green CRA Chairman to submit it to MASA on our behalf. No one was holding their breath in anticipation.
Mick raised the subject of the irrigation system. It was decided to carry out the survey and repairs on Friday 18th Sept at 0900hrs. Everyone to meet at the hotel roundabout.
Gardening works were to start again on Friday 2nd October. A BBQ would be held and the Wills asked to organise. Mick would speak to the English Butcher and Quiksave re provisions.
John and Fred were to organise the digger to carry out works on D11 and D20
Fundraisers announced that the Halloween dance plans were well under way for the 30th October. They were organising their own food instead of the hotel providing it.
The Boot Sale at Canadas was planned for 27th September. Bouncers were required to be in attendance by 6.30 am to help control crowds.
The Xmas dance was also being planned for December 5th with Bernie Mac providing the music.
Neighbourhood watch. Bob was to liaise with Graham on signs for the lamp posts.
The following poligono reps had not attended the last three meetings. Would they please contact the Secretary to re confirm their interest.
Terry Southgate D14
Alberto D 28
Laurie Lewis D34
Joan Lambert/ Nev Low D35
Bob Owen
Secretary/Treasurer
SECTOR D COMMUNITY GROUP
Notes of the meeting on Monday 3rd August 2009.
Stan (D24) asked for reimbursement of 100 euros spent on plants. This was agreed with the proviso that any future works that required cash would be submitted to the project management team. It was arranged for 100 euros from Les Crooks fund holding to be passed to him.
Representatives from the ICA medical practice attended the meeting to outline the medical scheme available to CRA members with green cards. For a cost of 15 euros a month unlimited access was available to the Doctor and Practice Nurse. 50% discounts was also available on other treatments. The initial payment was to be 6 x 15 euros =90 euros then 15 euros a month by direct debit. A donation of 2.50 euros to the CRA would be paid each month for the first 12 months. Full details from the Surgery.
I HAD PLANNED TO SCAN THE FORMS AND CIRCULATE THEM BUT AM UNABLE AT PRESENT DUE TO NO COMPUTER AND PRINTER OF MY OWN. I do have some forms if you would like to collect them from me.
Greg Green Chairman of the CRA was present and asked for volunteers to take over the control of the irrigation system for the central reservations. It was agreed and volunteers led by the Chairman, Mick Drummond agreed to meet with him for initial instruction. Some repairs caused by weeding work were needed at an estimated cost of 100 euros.
Bob Owen raised the problem again of the storm drains. It had been agreed at the last meeting that failure to get MASA to act on this would result in the Community Group having to take remedial action to prevent homes being flooded this coming winter. It was agreed that Bob Owen would seek out estimates for the work and input from anyone qualified to help would be sought.
Marion and Lin reported that all tickets (160) had been sold for the BBQ/DISCO.
It was not intended to make a profit for this event as it was seen as a social event.
They had visited Javier at the hotel to clarify our requirements for the BBQ.
Would anyone with prizes for the raffle please arrange to get them to Marion or Lin before the event. There was to be a charity auction of various high value items including a coffee machine and dogs bed.
There would be a list of poligonos without reps left on each table asking for volunteers for these coveted positions to make themselves known to Bob Owen. Bob would also make a brief appeal for reps just prior to the auction. Bob would supply an up to date list to Lin of current Reps.
Neighbourhood Watch.
Progress with the Guarda and local Police. Both think our Neighbourhood Watch is a good idea. Attempts are being made to get a formal response from them. The subject of street signs is the responsibility of the local council. This will be investigated further at the next meeting.
The next meeting will be at the Golf Club on Monday 7th September at 5 PM.
Regards
Bob Owen
Secretary/Treasurer
SECTOR D COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES, 6TH JULY 2009 Mick introduced Bernard (C) and Dave, Rob and Darren from (B) Sector A rep sent his apologies. A discussion followed on the merits of sharing equipment. The proposed WALL OF REMEMBRANCE was discussed in detail and it was proposed by Mick and seconded by Marion to donate 200 euros to the project. It was also agreed that SECTOR D volunteers would help with the project. Bob explained the finance report and the reasons for splitting up the monies. Helen explained that she was holding a total of 497 euros which had been earmarked for the petang court but was now available for general expenditure. The TABLE TOP SALE had raised 345 euros which would be allocated to buy a strimmer. All agreed that it was an excellent effort by the FUND RAISING COMMITTEE. A Halloween and Xmas dance were in the planning stage and there were only four tickets left for the BBQ dance in August. Donations for the raffle had been received from Liz at the Pasty shop, 2x 5 euro vouchers. Ally Pally have donated two free bowling tickets and Glitzy Bits a neck lass. Les reported that very few of the membership of the CRA had renewed their membership since the 10 euro charge was applied. It has since been decided to make the 10 euro charge an annual fee. Les inquired if the poligono reps could be used to promote the CRA. The discussion went around in circles with no decision being made. Bernard explained the special offer he had negotiated with the hotel for use of the spa. He was prepared to renegotiate to include all legitimate members of the various groups. He was asked to go ahead. The project managers reported 10 new projects for starting in September at a cost of around 2000 euros. The storm drains on D were discussed again and no progress had been made with MASA. All felt that it was MASA responsibility but in reality they were not going to do anything about it. Bob reminded those present that our failure to carry out remedial works would result in flooding of large areas of Sector D this coming winter. It was agreed that if no positive response was received from MASA by next months meeting the work would be scheduled for September. ANY OTHER BUSINESS. Mike explained that this item will not appear in future. Anyone with items to discuss must put them to Bob for inclusion in the agenda. Tom Wills suggested that a general public meeting should be held annually to ask residents what their expectations were of the committee. This was agreed with this years meeting to be organised by the Chairman for September. A request was made for assistance from the committee for genuine requests for help with private gardens by people unable to maintain them. Each case would be decided on its merits. It was reported that during the 3 month break from work parties the plants still needed looking after. Watering would be needed. Mike and Bob would chase up Gregs offer of a trailer and would obtain a water tank for use by members. Tom suggested that Septembers work party should start with clearing the central reservation followed by a BBQ.
Update June 14th.
A triumphant but exhausted Sector D volunteers called it a day today until the autumn cool, after several months of back breaking work, cleaning up the sector, transforming it with literally dozens of tons of gravel and re-planting areas that were previously left to go to ruin by MASA. The English butchers on Camposol yet again donated his marvellous sausages to the volunteers who relaxed at the end of the final work session. Have a good rest and enjoy the summer! SECTOR D COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES 1ST JUNE 2009 Greg Green explained to the meeting the thoughts behind the policing of the sponsors ensuring they honour their commitment to the community. The CRA would also police the erection of UN authorised signs to ensure Camposol does not become a forest of advertising signs. While Greg was still present Bob Owen brought forward item 6 of the agenda reference storm drains. Greg was going to see if he can get MASA to clear the drains as it is feared that failure to act this summer could result in flooding over large areas of Sector D during the next winter rains. If Greg is unsuccessful, Bob Owen stated that the only other people that could organise the clearance are the Community Group. If no one else is prepared to act then we must to protect our properties.
The financial report was submitted by Bob Owen and accepted by those present. The Group had funds of 2195.19 Euros. This may seem a lot of money to some people but it must be remembered that materials are expensive, over 1057 Euros being spent in May. We still have a long way to go so fundraising needs to continue. It was decided by the Committee that Andrews offer to supply plants for the triangle should be refused as it was felt there were enough plants already and to put more in only means more watering. The Project Managers said that the number of volunteers was diminishing by the week due to people having visitors, holidays and the hotter working conditions. It was decided to carry on for the next two Fridays clearing the weeds on the central reservation. After that would be a welcome summer break until September. The Committee meetings would carry on each month during the summer work break. The Fund Raising Committee announced a NEARLY NEW SALE to be held on Sat July 4th from 11am to 2pm outside TREVIS BAR. Anyone with items for the sale to contact LINDA on 606 874 193 or MARION on 636 573 431. Any items left over will be sold at the CAR BOOT at Canadas. Poligono Reps were asked to display the adverts for the sale on the bins on their poligonos. Bob Owen Secretary/ Treasurer 
Posted 20th may.
A couple of comments forwarded on which came from Camposolers.
Posted 16th may.
Correspondence ref drainage discussions, from Camposolers and emails.
PETE WROTE
On what could be a very serious matter has anyone considered the implications of the silting up of the dam near the "Shooting Lodge" at the back of D. The valley has silted up by a couple of feet over the last few winters. Much higher and the silt will enter the pipes. If these then block the prospects for serious flooding look pretty high. If you are up that way have a look over the wall and then think about where the water would run if the pipes failed.
1 day ago
Reply Quote Edit
This is why the Segura Hydro graphic Authority ( don't know the correct Spanish title) want Masa to construct a new ramba around D sector, the Masa plans for which are still to be approved by the authority. It is being used as an excuse by the council for not issuing planning permissions/ building licenses or escrituras on D23 & D32.
1 day ago
Reply Quote
I am also concerned about the possibility of these pipes getting blocked. These storm water pipes were installed by MASA in the natural culvert/ ravine which take rainwater off the fields and hills around SECTOR D7 and D8. If they become blocked the water will flow across open fields down Calle Guadix and flood the homes at the lower end of D8.
Whose responsibility is it? Well currently I believe MASA, eventually the town hall, but at present realisticly ours. If we don’t organise something before next winter many homes will be flooded plus all the mud and damage to walls pavements and roads.
1 day ago
Reply Quote Edit
Bob
Although it would not directly affect us, I agree entirely with what you say, as evidently do the Segura Hydro graphic Authority who wants this diversion rambla building, quite where it would run mystifies me, as the perimeter roads are much higher up the valley sides.
The situation is probably worse, because I doubt if Masa have put debris/ mud traps in the grids that drain into the culvert, so silt may be building up in them, hence the silt that you can see at the ends as it flows out during heavy rains.
Has anyone ever seen a gulley sucker clearing the grids anywhere on Camposol?
21 hours ago
Reply Quote
Having looked at the area from the top of the hill overlooking D4, you can clearly see the areas that lie the lowest and that would be affected by the flood waters.
Adding to my earlier concerns the following areas are also liable to flooding. Polyigonos D8, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, and even possibly 23 & 24. I am not an expert on the subject but having lived in the Trent Valley for many years I have seen the effects of building on low lying land flooding every winter.
The solution would be to hire a digger and tipper truck for the day and remove the debris and silt to ground where it won’t be washed down the ravine again.
There’s the problem and a possible solution. Is there a civil engineer or surveyor or anyone with previous experience who would be prepared to look at it for us and advise as to the best solution?
10 hours ago
Reply Quote Edit
Email from Greg to Bob.
As per our discussion I went up this evening to see the problem first hand.
I cannot see a problem with the clearance on all 3 pipes. There is a small pile of driftwood that could easily be moved by hand but the three pipes are all clear and at least a foot above the silt level. Obviously it would be benecial to clear the sediment but this would have to be done from above by somekind of dredge as access to the pipes is blocked by very large concrete pylons.
I will be happy to meet you down there to discuss further.
Thanks
Greg
Note from Zoe. During the tour of Camposol by the mayor a couple of months ago, the town architect was quite shocked to see the degree of damage being caused by the rambla problem. There have since been several meetings between various parties aimed at a long term solution for this problem, the main issue at the moment being the authorisatin of legal paperwork at a regional level, which will solve the problem long term. This is one of the most serious problems holding up the adaptation of Camposol as it will involve millions of euros worth of investment to sort it out properly.
Greg has been in regular discussions about this.We’ve asked for the plans several times, but keep missing the town architect when we call to collect them, as we want to get them on the website so everyone can clearly see whats happening.
Posted 11th May.
The fundraising dance on the 18th April went extremely well, with 1020 euros being raised to enable us to continue our work on sector D. Many thanks to all those who worked so hard to make it a success.
Work has been continuing apace, with the central areas on D23 being cleaned, mypexed and gravelled. Some of the space has been planted with fruit trees, which should see the first camposol community crops being avilable next year. Lots of volunteers turned up for this phase of the D projects,although we could still do with a few more pairs of hands on a regular basis every friday morning at 9.30am.
An appeal has also been made by Marion for the rockery area on the edges of
D29. The rockery area is looking fantastic, but needs more rocks just to support the back and build low walls to create more planting pockets. if anyone is out and about and sees any rocks lying around, could they bring back just one or two and leave them on the corner of the rockery area so that they could be positioned. Even one rock per person would make a massive difference in a very short time and would help Marion in a huge way. She has put in a lot of work as part of the fundraising team organising the dances and collecting raffle prizes for the fundraising efforts, and has very little help to manage a large area on her own. A little rock goes a long way and costs nothing other than a tiny bit of thought.
Posted 6th May.
The neighbourhood watch scheme appears to be continuing with its effectiveness, as no new burglaries have been reported on the sector during the last 2 weeks.
Notes received from volunteer group meeting.
SECTOR D COMMUNITY GROUP.
Notes of the meeting held on 4th May
Mick Drummond was voted in as Chairman and expressed his thanks to the outgoing Chairman for his efforts in getting the group up and running.
The treasurer offered her resignation and the Secretary offered to take on her duties as he was not physically capable of the manual work the group was involved in. He felt it was a contribution to the group he could make.
The Fundraisers reported that the dance had raised 1020 euro’s, a very welcome addition to our dwindling funds.
Next fundraiser would be a summer BBQ held on 14th August, a date carefully researched to ensure it didn’t clash with any other group’s activities.
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