Minutes of October 07 Meeting

MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 7.30 P.M ON WEDNESDAY THE 17TH OF OCTOBER 2007 IN THE MUICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.



CATHAOIRLEACH; COUNCILLOR CUNNANE.

COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE; COUNCILLORS DALTON, ENGLISH,
DALY, O’SULLIVAN, BRESLIN,
LAWLER, WRIGHT.

OFFICALS IN ATTENDANCE; DES PAGE, TOWN MANAGER,
MARIA AHEARNE ACTING TOWN
CLERK, PAUL HICKEY TOWN
ENGINEER, OLIVE KAVANAGH
ACTING SENIOR STAFF OFFICER.


The meeting commenced at 7.00pm with a presentation by the Tidy Towns Committee.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed the Tidy Towns Committee and thanked them for the great work they had carried out in 2007. He congratulated them on the 23 point increase on last year’s marks in the tidy town’s competition.

The Tidy Towns Committee outlined where the gains had been achieved. The committee outlined areas that could be improved upon. Some of these were, removal of advertising boards, getting rid of graffiti at the swimming pool, the arch centre on the Kilkenny rd, painting the seats in the Peoples Park, painting the bollards in Offaly St, the grass area on the Stradbally Rd needs to be levelled, removal of overhead cables. The Committee highlighted the need for signage cleaning and looking at signage types etc. A copy of the report is to be circulated to the councillors.

Suspend Standing Orders at 7.30,
Proposed by Cllr. Daly,
Seconded by Cllr.Lawler.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the tidy towns committee for their presentation.

Cllr. English also thanked them for their great work, and stated that he had seen them out many evenings sweeping and cleaning. He said we, as a council should help the committee, and said we could look at cleaning our signage. With regard to signage type he stated that the council had introduced byelaws on signs. With regard to derelict sites he stated that we as a council should be fining the owners of derelict sites.

Cllr. Lawler supported the views expressed. He stated that they were a voluntary group and the 23 point increase was a credit to them. He agreed that Athy Town Council needs to be more pro-active on derelict sites.
Cllr Daly acknowledged the very hard work of the committee. He stated that the simple issues like signage the council could address. He informed the meeting that the council needs to meet the tidy towns committee early in 2008 to prepare a plan of action for 08 and to see what assistance Athy Town Council can give the committee.
Cllr Dalton also wished to be associated with the compliments and congratulations issued to the committee. He stated that the council could look at the approach roads with Kildare County Council and look at our own derelict buildings. He also requested that the owners of the property listed in the May monthly meeting be written to and asked what are their plans for this building.

Cllr O’Sullivan also congratulated the tidy towns committee, and stated that it was a very small committee, who were very hard working and dedicated.

Cllr Breslin congratulated the committee and agreed with all of the above. She said why would we not paint our furniture, she also stated that the committee should liase with the town engineer on the small jobs.

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that Athy Town Council, Kildare County Council, the chamber of commerce, the educational establishments and residents associations all need to work with the tidy towns committee in order to maximise our points. Tullamore won a bronze and if we can increase out votes by 10% next year we will not be far off achieving a bronze medal. He told the tidy towns committee that Athy Town Council would take their suggestions on board.

Standing Orders resumed,
Proposed by Cllr. Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.


1. ADOPTION OF MINUTES.

The minutes of the September monthly meeting held on the 19th of September 2007 were adopted,
On proposal of Cllr. Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr. Dalton.

The minutes of the Special Meeting held on the 26th of September 2007 were adopted,
On proposal of Cllr. Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr. O’ Sullivan.

The minutes of the Special Meeting held on the 9th of October 2007 were adopted.
On proposal of Cllr. Daly,
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.


The Cathaoirleach welcomed Declan Keogh the new Road Safety Officer for County Kildare and congratulated him on his appointment. The Cathaoirleach also wished Cllr. Noel Scully who is in hospital, a speedy recovery. All of the councillors wished to be associated with these remarks.


2. MATTERS ARISING

The Cathaoirleach complemented the town clerk on the task list and said it would be very helpful.

Cllr. Dalton enquired if the Town Council had any indication of when the hearing on the part v units would take place. The Town Clerk informed the meeting that as negotiations were taking place she was reluctant to discuss the matter.

Cllr O’ Sullivan asked when the pedestrian lights in Stanhope Street would be operational. The engineer replied that Athy Town Council was still trying to get them connected. The Cathaoirleach commented on the very bad service the ESB was providing Athy Town Council.

Cllr. Daly acknowledged the work of the caretaker in ordering the CFL bulbs for the chamber, and he stated that he welcomed the report circulated on the water quality in the river Barrow, but said we will need to keep this monitored. He noted that the formation of the protocol committee would wait until the new town clerk was in place.


3. CORRESPONDENCE

· Copies of A.M.A.I Newsletter for circulation.

· Notice of the 7th Ernest Shackleton Autumn School in Athy from the 26th to 29th of October.

· Notice of the Douglas Hyde Conference in Ballaghaderreen from Friday the 26th to Sunday the 28th of October.

·
The Cathaoirleach to attend this conference,
On proposal of Cllr. English.
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.

Cllr English to attend this conference,
On proposal of Cllr. Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.

· Notification of conference on economic development “Gateway Status What’s it worth?” in Dundalk on the 1st of November.


· Notification of Local Authorities Association Annual Winter Conference, in Carlow on the 9th and 10th of November.

· Notification of training seminar on effective communications for councillors on the 16th to 18th of November, in Letterkenny.

· Notification of conference on “Tourism for Changing Lifestyles” in Ennistymon, Co. Clare. On the 22nd to the 24th of November.


The Cathaoirleach Sean Cunnane to attend,
On proposal of Cllr. O’Sullivan.
Seconded by Cllr. English.

· Notification of training seminar on The Local Government Budget 2008.

· Invitation to Book Launch and Art Exhibition in the Seven Oaks Hotel, in Carlow on the 24th of October.

· Letter from The Inland Waterways Association of Ireland requesting that Athy Town Council take over the jetty.

The following discussion took place regarding this letter.

Cllr. English enquired what is the procedure for this.

The Town Clerk replied that a number of issues needed to be addressed before Athy Town Council could consider taking over the jetty e.g. ownership of the river bank needed to be ascertained, specifications and drawings of the jetty would have to be submitted to the council, maintenance issues and costs needed to be investigated, and insurance costs also had to be obtained. Cllr Dalton stated that we need to take over ownership of this jetty and he stated that the Inland Waterways feared loosing the funding for the purchase and installation of the jetty from Kelt, as in order for them to receive the funding the jetty has to be signed over and insured by the council. He enquired if the council could intercede and make sure Inland Waterways did not loose its funding.Cllr Lawler asked if a letter could be issued stating that Athy Town Council are willing to take over the jetty pending the submission of the above mentioned documents.

The Town Manager replied that direct contact to Kelt from the council would help, Kelt have been very flexible in the past. The Town Clerk informed the meeting that she had spoken to Kelt, and they had informed her that they would like the matter dealt with as soon as possible, and that she had assured them that the matter would be dealt with as soon as possible.

· Letter from Minister John Gormely regarding the subvention of private refuse collection.

· A letter of thanks from Athy Sports and Acrobatics club for the €500.00 donation received from the council.

· Letter from Regional Authority, inviting the councillors and the Town Clerk to one of the public information meetings for the revised Retail Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area.

· Letter from Athy District Resource Centre seeking funding.

· Correspondence from the Association of Town Clerks of Ireland, outlining the submission of the Association on Minister Gormley’s proposal for a Green Paper on Local Government Reform.

Cllr English stated that it is important that Athy Town Council discusses the green paper at some point soon. Cllr Dalton informed the members that the paper should be published in January. The Cathaoirleach proposed that in 2008 the council discuss the green paper and offer our views on it to the minister.

The Cathaoirleach then welcomed the Road Safety Officer to the meeting, and invited him to make his report.

Declan Keogh s in his report (a copy of which was circulated to the councillors) stated his role as Road Safety Officer is to promote public awareness among key groups within the community to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries on the roads. He informed the members that he worked with the school wardens throughout the county. Mr. Keogh outlined his plans for the county and Athy area. They included the acquirement of a Mobile Safety bus, the setting up of a road safety awareness programme in conjunction with the court services, initiatives for the removal of unlawful placement of vehicles for sale on roadsides, the formation of a road safety together committee. He outlined three specific plans for Athy, the KCC and AXA road show, the walking bus programme, and pedestrian crossings at the Barrow Bridge Edmund Rice Square, and Upper Leinster St.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the road safety officer for his presentation.

Cllr Daly also thanked Kildare County Council for having the foresight to appoint a road safety officer. Cllr Lawler stated that he had reservations about the pedestrian crossing at the Barrow Bridge, Edmund Rice Square, as he felt it would slow the traffic in the town down even further. He added that he would welcome the pedestrian crossing in Leinster St. Cllr English and O’Sullivan also stated that they would welcome a pedestrian crossing in Leinster St.

The Town Clerk informed Mr. Keogh that he should make his submission for funding of the road show now so that it could be considered for the 2008 budget.


5. NOTICES OF MOTION


“That this council considers the feasibility of setting up a representative committee of all interested groups and organisations for the purpose of maximising the use and development of the river Barrow and Grand Canal within Athy.”

Speaking in support of his motion Cllr Dalton informed the meeting that utilisation of the waterways was not being maximised. There is a need to pull all the organisations responsible for the river and with an interest in the river together. Cllr English stated that there was a huge opportunity there and that towns in the midlands with similar amenities were using the waterways to their fullest. He also asked how can we best use these assets. Cllr Daly endorsed these remarks and said that all the bodies involved in the river should be brought together.

Proposed by Cllr. Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr. English,
All Agreed.

6. “That the resurfacing of Ballybough Lane be completed as previously agreed”

Speaking in support of his motion Cllr. Dalton stated that he had made representations on this matter to Colm Flynn and he had agreed that the work would be carried out, but only a portion of the work had been completed. The Engineer replied that he would list it for consideration for the 2008 road works programme to be funded by the block road grant.
Cllr Dalton stated that he thought some of the funding received for the sewage scheme had been earmarked for this.

Proposed by Cllr Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr. English,
All Agreed.

7. “That consideration is given to the provision of ramps on the Fortbarrington Rd close
to the entrance to Dunbrin housing estate”

Speaking on the motion Cllr English stated that there were now three to four hundred new houses built in that estate and thus many more cars and pedestrians were now using that road.

Proposed by Cllr. English,
Seconded by Cllr. Dalton.
All Agreed.

8. “That Athy Town Council implement a policy which prohibits the private roadside
selling of vehicles and uses the community warden scheme to implement the policy.”

Speaking on the motion Cllr Daly informed the meeting that a programme aired on TV had dealt with this problem, and the programme indicated that byelaws were needed to deal with the problem. We should request that Kildare County Council introduce byelaws on this. He added in some areas the community wardens’ scheme was being used to tackle the issue. The manager replied that byelaws would allow the council to prosecute those who were using this method to carry on a car trade and he added that Kildare County Council is examining this issue. Cllr. O’ Sullivan stated that she had noticed these cars parked on footpaths. Cllr Dalton supported the motion, and also raised the issue of HGV‘s parking in estates, and he stated that perhaps the council should look at the provision of a safe parking area for these vehicles. The Cathaoirleach added that all enforcement procedures available should be used to prosecute the owners of these vehicles.

Proposed by Cllr. Daly,
Seconded by Cllr. O’ Sullivan,
All Agreed.

9. “That Athy Town Council should make application to Garda authorities for the
the appointment of a community garda in Athy.”

Speaking on the motion Cllr. Daly said that a community garda works with the community and supports the people of that community. The gardaí would welcome our support in endorsing their application for a community Garda in Athy. Cllr. Lawler stated that as chair of the JPC committee he would welcome the appointment of a community Garda. Cllr. English informed the meeting that Athy had a community Garda approximately ten years ago, as part of a pilot scheme, and that pilot scheme had been very successful.

Proposed by Cllr. Daly,
Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan,
All Agreed.

10. “In order to encourage recycling that Kildare County Council be asked to suspend
charges at the Athy Civic Amenity Centre and to undertake an active campaign to promote recycling throughout the community.”

Speaking on the motion Cllr. Daly stated that he thought that the council should not be charging for items like glass, furniture, carpets and cooking oil as it is counter productive, and will discourage people bringing these items to the centre. They will end up being dumped. Other council’s don’t charge for these items and we should be doing everything in our power to encourage people to bring items to the centre for recycling. I understand that Kildare County Council needs revenue, but we should seek to have these charges removed with the exception of domestic household waste.

Cllr O’Sullivan stated that she was aware that a lot of illegal dumping was taking place on back roads, and she informed the meeting that she would support the motion with the exception of domestic waste. Cllr Lawler stated that some irresponsible people would still dump even if refuse collection were free. He also stated that fining people who dump is the only way to stop it. Cllr. Dalton informed the meeting not charging might not be feasible from a council budget point of view. It is important to be able to keep the facility open. Waste is a serious problem and for the price of a packet of cigarettes people can get their waste collected. He also stated that there is a lot of dumping, and this should be tackled by way of litter fines and a name and shame campaign. Cllr Dalton concluded by saying that he thought not charging is not an option.

The Cathaoirleach stated that promoting recycling was a very important point, and he stated that he took on board the financial issues. He said he was in favour of asking Kildare County Council to suspend the charges.

The manager replied that the centre was costing €650,000 per year to operate and it does not break even. The glass and paper recycling markets are ok but it costs a significant sum of money to export other materials for recycling. He added we must also adhere to the polluter pays policy.

Cllr Daly added that there is also an inequality issue here, in that families on low incomes get waivers in areas where Kildare County Council still operate the refuse collection system, while they have to pay in Athy. If waiving the charges fully is not feasible then waiving them a couple of times a year should be considered. We have to get people used to using the centre first before we start charging them.

Proposed by Cllr. Daly,
Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
In favour, Cllr Daly, Cllr, O’Sullivan, The Cathaoirleach.
Abstentions, Cllr. Lawler, Cllr. Dalton.

11. “That Athy Town Council seeks reassurance from the HSE that the new Oncology
Unit in Naas General Hospital remains open for routine treatment”

Cllr O’ Sullivan stated that the unit was only opened six months ago, and prior to this patients had to go to Dublin. Now it is announced that Naas will loose its cancer services with the plans to move them to larger centres. She stated that we should write to the HSE asking them not to close down the unit.

Cllr Dalton stated that the announcement referred to the treatment of breast cancer, and Naas hospital does not deal with this. He said the council should write to confirm this.

Proposed by Cllr. O’ Sullivan,
Seconded by Cllr. Daly,
All Agree.


12. CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS

The Cathaoirleach stated that he intended to arrange a civic reception for Stephen Roche who won two gold medals in the Special Olympics.

Proposed by The Cathaoirleach,
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed.

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that a civic reception had been held on the 5th of October for the 750th Anniversary Celebrations of the Dominican’s in Athy. A plaque had been unveiled on the 6th of October. He requested that a letter of thanks be issued to Frank Taaffe and the committee who organised the celebrations. He also conveyed his thanks to the Acting Town Clerk and her staff for the tremendous work she did to ensure our council made a contribution to the celebrations.

The Cathaoirleach also conveyed his best wishes to the boxers who would be representing Ireland in the world boxing championships in Chicago.

The Cathaoirleach also informed the meeting that the year of the Barrow concluded on Sunday the 14th of October with Minister Sean Power officiating. He requested that the North Barrow branch be thanked for organising the annual water festival, and for winning the Barrow award for 2007. The triathlon was the biggest event held on the Barrow in Athy in 2007, he stated that it was a huge success and he wished to thank Arthur Lynch and all associated with this great event. He also wished to express his thanks to the Athy Rowing club and to congratulate them on their 10th birthday. He stated that he was delighted to learn that fifteen young people were involved including two girls. Its regatta on Sunday, which will become an annual event, had the official recognition of the rowing association of Ireland.

The Cathaoirleach also informed the meeting that three members of the Le Grandvielliers twinning committee had met with Councillors Daly, Breslin and Deputy Wall, Tom Yates and himself last Saturday, and they had outlined a number of events taking place in 2008. The Cathaoirleach thanked Cllr Daly for acting as chair for the local twinning committee and stated that Cllr Daly had resigned and that a new chair of the twinning committee was needed. He requested that the twinning committee meet as soon as possible.

The Cathaoirleach stated that Option A had been chosen for the Arts centre, and he thanked the Methodist community for giving Athy Town Council that option.

The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that the members had held a meeting in the council offices last night to discuss the retail strategy. The Cathaoirleach stated that it was a very positive meeting and he said he was glad to report that the members are anxious to complete the strategy as early as possible in November.

Lastly the Cathaoirleach stated that it was his intention to meet with the chamber of commerce soon regarding the Christmas lights, and the official launch of Christmas in Athy.

13. MANAGER’S BUSINESS.

The Town Clerk informed the meeting that 6 CCTV cameras had been installed and they were all operational at present. She also gave a Rapid Update, stating that the results of the Pride of Place competition held in June will be on the 10th of November. The Town Clerk stated that herself, Cllr O’Sullivan, representatives from St. Dominic’s Park, the travellers club, age action, the boxing club and Anne Redmond would be attending.

The Town Clerk requested nominations to sit on the finance committee for the 2008 Budget.

Cllr. John Lawler
Proposed by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
Seconded by Cllr. Dalton.

The Cathaoirleach,
Proposed by Cllr. Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr. Daly.

Cllr. Mary O’Sullivan,
Proposed by Cllr. Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr. Daly.

The Town Clerk then proceeded to brief the meeting on the quarterly finance update.

Cllr Lawler noted that the council’s revenue from the parking meters was down due to the robberies, and he enquired what type of safety devices would be fitted to the meters to prevent them being robbed again and stated that we need to get them fixed as soon as possible. The Town engineer replied that he had placed an order for a protection system for the meters and it would take two to three weeks for them to be in place.

The Town Clerk then proceeded to inform the meeting that the part 8 procedure had to recommence for the Youth Café as the advertisement had been incorrect, in that it did not state that it was a listed building.

Cllr Dalton requested a report on why this was not advertised correctly, he stated it was not good enough that systems were not in place to prevent this from happening. He requested that John Lahart explain to the council how this happened.

Cllr Lawler stated that some de-listings had not been done on the development plan and now this procedure had not been carried out correctly. It makes the elected representatives look incompetent.

Cllr Daly stated that he now had to go and tell the youth sub-committee that the provision of the youth café would be delayed. It is total incompetence; we are applying to ourselves for permission under part 8. I am the one who has to face the youth.

Cllr. O’ Sullivan informed the meeting that she too was very disappointed at the news, and that she agreed with a meeting with John Lahart.

The Cathaoirleach shared the councillor’s disappointment and frustration. He stated it was very difficult to take this set back and he added it showed total incompetence in that that the council could not even put an add in the paper correctly.

The manager replied that he appreciated the councillor’s disappointment and frustration. He said it was a genuine mistake, and nobody can claim to be mistake proof. The end result will be positive and we should not loose sight of that.

The Town Clerk informed the meeting that the correct advertisement would appear in next week’s paper. An advertisement for the one-way system would also be in the paper. It is also intended to have a leaflet drop.

Cllr Dalton stated that he hoped the works would not cause huge traffic disruption.

The Town Engineer replied that he did not envisage the works causing huge chaos as the schools were off.

The Cathaoirleach stated that we should be mindful that this is an experiment and that it would go if it did not work.


14. PLANNING REGISTER

Cllr Daly referred to a planning application received on the 17/09/2007, and stated that the developer was to have engaged with the councillors before an application was lodged. He stated that he was disappointed that the application had been lodged without that engagement.


15. OTHER BUSINESS

Cllr Lawler requested that the council get a costing for the provision of public lighting in the people’s park; he also stated that the gardaí should be informed that vandals are breaking off branches of trees in the park and the gardaí should investigate this.

Cllr. O’ Sullivan stated that a motion had been tabled earlier in the year regarding a CIE property and she noted that the grass and debris still had not been removed.

Cllr Dalton sought an update on the Carbury Park, Townparks remedial works. The Town Clerk replied that contracts should be signed shortly.

The Councillors expressed a vote of sympathy to David O’Flaherty on the recent death of his wife Catherine, and to the Cathaoirleach on the recent death of his sister Teresa.



THIS CONCLUDED THE MEETING



CATHAOIRLEACH__________________________________


DATE ___________________________________

October 07 Agenda

NOTICE OF OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY, THE 17TH OCTOBER, 2007 AT 7.30 P.M. IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

AGENDA

1. Minutes of Sept Monthly Meeting held on the 19th Sept, 2007.
Minutes of Special Meeting held on the 26th of Sept 2007.
Minutes of Special Meeting on the 9th of Oct 2007


2. Matters Arising.

3. Correspondence.

4. Notices of Motion:-

Councillors Dalton & English:
5. “That this council consider the feasibility of setting up a representative committee of all interested groups and organisations for the purpose of maximising the use and development of the river Barrow and Grand Canal of within Athy.”

6. “That the resurfacing of Ballybough Lane be completed as previously agreed.”

7. “That consideration be given to the provision of ramps on the Fortbarrington rd close to the entrance to Dunbrin housing estate.”


Councillor Daly:
8. “That Athy Town Council implement a policy which prohibits the private roadside selling of vehicles and uses the community warden scheme to implement the policy.”

9. “That Athy Town Council should make application to Garda authorities for the appointment of a Community Garda in Athy.”


10. “In order to encourage recycling that Kildare County Council be asked to suspend all charges at the Athy Civic Amenity Centre and to undertake an active campaign to promote recycling throughout the community.”

Councillor O’ Sullivan:

11. “That Athy Town Council seeks reassurance from H.S.E. that the new
Oncology Unit at Naas General Hospital remains open for routine treatments.”





12. Cathaoirleach’s Business:
.
. 13 Manager’s Business:
· CCTV update.
· RAPID update.
· Nomination to sit on Finance Committee ref Budget 2008.
· Quarterly Finance update.

14. Planning Register.

15. Any Other Business.


Maria Ahearne,
A/Town Clerk.

September 07 Meeting

MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 7.30 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY THE 19TH OF SEPTEMBER 2007 IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

CATHAOIRLEACH; COUNCILLOR CUNNANE

COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE; COUNCILLORS DALTON,
ENGLISH, SCULLY, DALY,
LAWLER, O’SULLIVAN,
BRESLIN, WRIGHT.

OFFICALS IN ATTENDANCE; TOMMY SKEHAN, TOWN MANAGER,
MARIA AHEARNE, ACTING
TOWN CLERK,
PAUL HICKEY TOWN ENGINEER,
OLIVE KAVANAGH, A/S.S


1. ADOPTION OF MINUTES

The minutes of the July Monthly Meeting held on the 18th July, 2007 were adopted,
On proposal of Cllr Breslin.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.

The minutes of Retail Strategy Meeting on the 23rd of July 2007 were adopted,
On proposal of Cllr Dalton
Seconded by Cllr Scully.

The minutes of Special Meeting held on the 5th of Sept 2007 were adopted,
On proposal of Cllr O’Sullivan
Seconded by Cllr Wright.


2. MATTERS ARISING

Cllr Breslin raised three issue, the first referred to the sub-committee which was to be set up with representatives from Slievemore Homes, the Kingsgrove/Grayslands residents associations, Athy Town Council staff and the Councillors, and informed the meeting that there may be a number of different residents associations in the estate, and had the council given thought as to how to contact these different group and how many representatives from each group should be on the committee. Secondly Cllr Breslin asked if the council would organise an independent study of the traffic management plan and traffic calming needs for this development. Thirdly Cllr Breslin requested that a formal reply be issued to correspondence the Grayslands residents association submitted to the council on the Slievemore Development.

The Town Engineer replied that the construction management plan had been received and he was in the process of evaluating the submission.

The Cathaoirleach enquired if a copy of the plan could be issued to the councillors and would an independent traffic management study be required.


In response the Town manager said the engineer had requested the Traffic Management plan from the builder’s consultants and once the engineer had signed off on it and the committee had examined it, a copy of the plan could be issued to the councillors.

Cllr Dalton stated that some confusion existed among the residents on the status of the green areas in Kingsgrove and asked if a letter could be issued to the councillors clarifying
the status of the green areas.

The Town Engineer stated that the green areas were marked on the site maps and designated as green open spaces on the planning files for Kingsgrove on which planning permission was granted.

The Town Manager informed the meeting that the town clerk would write to the members and inform them on the position of the green areas in Kingsgrove.

The Cathaoirleach then proceeded to seek nominations for the Kingsgrove, Graysland, Slievemore sub-committee. He suggested that the councillors’ representation should consist of four members and the Cathaoirleach.

All Agreed to this composition.

That Cllr Dalton be appointed to the Kingsgrove, Graysland, Slievemore sub-committee.
Proposed by Cllr English.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler
All Agreed

That Cllr Lawler be appointed to the Kingsgrove, Graysland, Slievemore sub-committee.
Proposed by Cllr Breslin.
Seconded by Cllr English
All Agreed

That Cllr Daly be appointed to the Kingsgrove, Graysland, Slievemore sub-committee.
Proposed by Cllr O’ Sullivan.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler
All Agreed.

That Cllr Breslin be appointed to the Kingsgrove, Graysland, Slievemore sub-committtee.
Proposed by Cllr Daly.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed.

Cllr Dalton asked when a meeting will be set up with the Athy Town Soccer Club, and requested an update on the Part V housing issue in Rheban Manor.

The Town Clerk replied that a meeting will be set up with the Soccer Club, and with regard to the part v development she informed the members that a meeting had taken place with the developer, council officials and the council’s solicitor. The issue was not resolved.

The Town Manager stated that the council has engaged in discussions with the developer,
and hopefully an agreement will be reached quickly. The manager stated that he would prefer to go the consensus route rather than the high court route.



3. CORRESPONDENCE.

Notification of Heritage Week 25th to 2nd of August.

Notification of Parnell Summer School held on the 12th to 17th of August.

Notification of conference on rural Tourism held on the 6th and 7th of September.

Notification of conference on “Developing Local Heritage for Tourism Purposes” held on the 6th and 7th of September.

Invitation from the Riverbank Arts Centre to the launch of An Fomhar, at 7 pm on the 13th of September.

Notification of Irish Language activity course, on the 17th 20th and 27th of September held in the Clochan Bhreanainn Gaeltacht.

Notification of conference on “Local Government and Rural Development” in the Tullamore Court Hotel on the 25th and 26th of September.

Notification of conference on Social housing in Whites Hotel in Wexford, on the 25th to the 27th of September.

Town Clerk to attend this conference.
On proposal of Cllr English.
Seconded by Cllr Dalton.
All Agreed.

Cllr Scully to attend this conference.
On proposal of Cllr Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr O’ Sullivan.
All Agreed.

Cllr Wright to attend this conference.
On proposal of Cllr English.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed.

Notification of Conference on “Understanding and improving attitudes to disability”, on the 27th of September in the Radisson Hotel, Dublin Airport.

Notification of Conference on “The changing Ireland – are Local Authorities prepared” on the 28th to the 30th of September in Greystones, Wicklow.

Notification of conference on “developing arts tourism in Ireland” on the 4th of October in Killarney.

Cllr Scully to attend this conference.
On proposal of Cllr Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
All Agreed.

Notification of conference on “The battle against substance abuse” on the 4th and 5th of October in Killarney.

Cllr English to attend.
On proposal of Cllr Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed.

Cllr. O’ Sullivan to attend.
On proposal of Cllr. Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.
All Agreed.

Notification of conference on Irish Housing, on the 11th of October in the Plaza Hotel, Santry.

Notification of conference on “The challenge of Climate Change for the island of Ireland” on the 19th of October in Killarney.

Notification of training seminar for councillors on “Health and Safety in Local Government” on the 26th and 27th of October.

The Town Clerk to attend.
On proposal of Cllr Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed.

Notification of “Douglas Hyde Conference” on the 26th to the 28th of October in Ballaghaderreen.

Cllr Lawler to attend.
On proposal of Cllr Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr English.
All Agreed.

Cllr Scully to attend.
On proposal of Cllr Breslin.
Seconded by Cllr Daly.
All Agreed.

· Correspondence from Helen Dowling, tendering her resignation from the Athy Town Council Twinning Committee, and requesting that a special meeting of Athy Town Council be held to adopt the Youth Café Part 8 scheme.

The Cathaoirleach stated that the new town clerk should take Helen Dowling’s position on the twinning committee and he proposed that the special meeting be held on Tuesday the 9th of October at 5.00pm to adopt the youth café part 8 scheme.

All Agreed

Correspondence outlining details of the works to be carried out in the change of use of the old dispensary at Meeting Lane to the Youth Café.

Correspondence from Bryan Doyle former Town Clerk, and Director of Services with Wicklow County Council, congratulating Cllr English on his 40 years service as a councillor.

Notification of new Outreach Drop-in Clinic at Athy Health Centre, Woodstock St.

Correspondence from Minister Gormley, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government acknowledging receipt of a recent letter from the council in connection with Private Refuse Collection.

Correspondence from Cuan Mhuire requesting sponsorship of their fund raising Golf Classic to be held on September 28th.

That Athy Town Council sponsor a tee in the sum of €300.00
On proposal of Cllr Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr English.
All Agreed.

· Correspondence from Clonakilty Town Council seeking support for their motion “That this council writes to the Minister for Transport calling for an amendment to the present Hackney Regulations so as to enable Hackney Drivers to legally stop and pick up potential customers who flag them down on the street without prior arranged bookings”

Cllr Daly informed the meeting that Kildare County Council are looking at the taxi rank regulations in the county, and he asked that the council defers a decision on this request until the county has regularised the situation for taxis who have paid for their permits.

Defer.
All Agreed

· Correspondence from Fermoy Town Council seeking support for their motion “That all third level students who attend universities or institutes of technology be eligible to vote in the Seanad Eireann elections”

That Athy Town Council support the motion.
All Agreed.

· Correspondence from Kildare County Council regarding the setting up of an on-line discussion forum asking if the councillors are willing to become part of the process.

Noted.

· Correspondence form Athy Hurling and Camogie Club seeking to be considered for land to provide a pitch under the community gain scheme.

The following discussion followed the reading of this correspondence. Cllr Dalton stated that the Athy GAA had only one pitch, and understood the importance of the hurling and camogie club having their own facilities. Cllr Breslin suggested that the council sit down and talk to the Hurling and Camogie Club. Cllr Daly stated that if land does become available under the scheme that they should be considered for it, but he added the council should not be earmarking land for particular clubs at this stage.

Noted.

Report on the CCTV scheme.

Correspondence from Trevor Shaw, regarding the Methodist Church and Hall, Woodstock St.

Put on the agenda for the special meeting on the 9th of October.
All Agreed

Correspondence from the Athy Sports and Acrobatic Club seeking funding.

That €500.00 be paid to the Athy Sports and Acrobatic Club.
On proposal of Cllr Breslin.
Seconded Cllr Dalton.

Cllr Daly raised the issue of the properties that should have been delisted in the development plan. Cllr Breslin stated that a list of buildings for de-listing had been submitted for the development plan. The Cathaoirleach replied that the omission was on the bureaucratic side, as the list that came before us in the development plan was not what we had submitted. The Town Manager replied that he got the entries on the development plan proofed from the minutes. Councillor Daly asked do we have to delist these properties individually or globally. The manager requested that the councillors submit a copy of the de-listing submission they submitted for the development plan. We will have the submission examined by the conservation officer and request a report on same from the conservation officer. We will be doing the mid term review shortly. Cllr Lawler asked would the conservation officer’s reports from his work on the list for the development plan be sufficient, as a report would have been issued on the list at the time the development plan was being prepared. The Town Manager requested that the list in question be submitted to the Town Clerk.


4. NOTICES OF MOTION;

“That Athy Town Council ask the Minister for Environment to lower the age from eighteen to sixteen for persons eligible to vote in all local elections.”

Cllr Breslin stated that young people were studying political science in school and she felt
allowing them to vote in local elections would get them involved in politics and their communities. Cllr. Daly added that at 16 students are responsible and supported the motion. Cllr English informed the meeting that he had reservations and why not allow them to vote in Dail elections or allow them to drink at 16. Cllrs, Lawler and O Sullivan also spoke in favour of the motions.

Proposed by Cllr Breslin.
Seconded by Cllr. Daly.
In favour; Breslin, Daly, Lawler, O’ Sullivan, Scully, Wright.
Against; Cllr English.
Abstained; The Cathaoileach, Cllr. Dalton.
Motion Carried.


5. “That Athy Town Council investigates the feasibility of a yearly servicing
Of gas central heating system for tenants who are old age pensioners.”

Cllr Breslin stated that servicing the boilers was costly and represented a burden on our old age pensioners.

Proposed by Cllr Breslin.
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed

6.. “That Athy Town Council investigates the reasons why the street lights and green areas of Branswood estate have not been completed as per the planning permission granted by Athy Town Council.”

Cllr Breslin asked if the Town Engineer would investigate this. The Town Engineer replied
that the developer has to comply with the planning conditions, there is no time scale for complying except for the seven-year rule by which the development must be completed. This gives rise to issues. He also stated that our development enforcement officer is following up this issue.

Proposed by Cllr Breslin.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed



7.. “That Athy Town Council designates specific parking spaces which are not paying parking for persons using the facility of Athy Adult Literacy Centre at Nelson St Athy.”

Cllr. Scully stated that provision of parking spaces was important for people using this excellent service. The Cathaoirleach acknowledged the importance of the service but stated we have not been granting such parking requests to date, and consistency should be upheld. Cllr English replied, if we agree to this what about the people using doctors’ surgeries, post offices etc. If this is the road we go down as a council we should forget about the pay parking. He stated he could not agree with the motion. Cllr O ‘Sullivan agreed with councillor English and said it would create too great a precedent.

Proposed by Cllr. Scully.
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.
In Favour; Cllr Scully, Breslin, Wright.
Against; The Cathaoirleach, Cllrs English, Dalton, Daly, O’Sullivan, Lawler.
Motion not carried.



8. “That Athy Town Council investigate and make good the problems with wheelchair accessibility at the Augustan Canal Bridge considering the problems it represents for wheelchair users and accessibility problems at other locations including Plewmans’s Tce.”

Cllr. Scully stated that people in wheelchairs, and people with children in buggies can’t use this bridge, and Athy Town Council should investigate this problem and present a solution. Cllr Dalton agreed with the motion and asked if Athy Town Council could look at a board walk solution like the one on the Liffey Bridge in Newbridge. Could we look at a multi agency approach? Cllr. Lawler and English requested that the engineer investigate this problem. Cllr Wright informed the meeting that the Barrow Bridge presented a similar problem. The Town Engineer replied that he would consider the feasibility of the boardwalk solution to the problem. He also stated that the council was reviewing the 2005 Access group report and its recommendations at present. Cllr Daly requested that a copy of the access report be circulated to all the councillors. The Town Clerk agreed to circulate the report, and she stated that she would instruct the litter, traffic and community wardens to police the footpaths on market days in Emily Square to ensure they were not being obstructed by traders.

Proposed by Cllr. Scully,
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed.



9. “That we as council look at the possibility of having Kildare County Council and Department of Health to investigate water pollution in the River Barrow from raw sewage coming from Portarlington and Monasterevin and that in all years I have never seen the Barrow so filthy.”

Cllr Wright spoke about the above motion, and asked if it could be investigated and requested that samples be taken from the river. Cllr Daly also requested that the water quality be tested as it seemed quiet dark at the moment. Cllr Dalton suggested that it was scare mongering and that the reason for the dark colour of the river was our wet summer. Cllr Lawler agreed and said there was a lot of rain this summer and a lot of silt had washed down from the Slieveblooms as a result of the rain. The Town Manager replied to the motion and stated that Kildare County Council had legal responsibility for the river. He stated that the river was the heart of the town, and that an environmental report was issued every year to say that the water quality in the river was fine.

Proposed by Cllr.Wright.
Seconded by Cllr Daly.
In favour of the motion; Cllr Wright, Cllr Scully.
Against the motion; The Cathaoirleach, Cllrs Lawler, O’Sullivan, Dalton, English, Breslin.
Abstained: Cllr Daly.
Motion not carried.


10. ” That in view of the fact that Tegral has decided to invest in Athy in the form of a new factory it illustrates the confidence that Tegral has in Athy and its dedicated workers and that it must be seen as a catalyst for other companies and IDA to invest here and I propose that we invite the IDA to our next meeting to discuss it.”

Cllr Wright stated that it had been 20years since the IDA attended a council meeting. He also stated that Tegrals confidence in Athy should be a catalyst for further development. Cllr Daly stated that it was not necessary for the IDA to attend a council meeting as representatives from the IDA were on the Athy Investment and Development Forum. They work with all the other bodies on the forum to attract investment to the town, and Cllr Daly said he wanted to complement the work of the IDA on the forum. Cllr Dalton stated that he had no problem with inviting the IDA to attend a council meeting, and he endorsed the work they had done as part of the forum.

Proposed by Cllr Wright,
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed.


11. “That 4 Emily Row be removed from the list of protected structure.”

Put the process in place to remove 4 Emily Row from the list of protected structures.

Proposed by Cllr Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr English.
All Agreed.


12. “That a safety barrier be erected at corner of Town Hall close to Heritage Centre in order to protect pedestrians at this location.”

Cllr Daly asked if the engineer would investigate this.

Proposed by Cllr. Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr. English.
All Agreed.


13. “That a review of the upkeep and maintenance of St Michael’s Cemetery with a
view to increasing resources available to the caretaker.”

Cllr Dalton informed the meeting that several issues have to be addressed, and it was very difficult for one caretaker to look after everything. Cllr Dalton said we need extra resources, and would the council consider providing extra funding in the 2008 budget. Cllr English welcomed the seating in the cemetery, but on the negative side he stated that the bins were overflowing, potholes needed filling, and kerbing was also needed. He also stated that the caretaker needs more assistance. Aoife Breslin enquired if a meeting of the cemetery committee was soon to take place. The Cathaoirleach informed her that the cemetery committee was to meet on Monday the 24th of September. Cllr O’ Sullivan stated that the committee did not get a lot of support, their were only 4 or 5 people on it. In reply to the motion the Town Manager replied that we could look at it in the context of the 2008 budget.

Proposed by Cllr Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr English.
All Agreed.


14. “That the Town Council have pedestrian lights at St. Michael’s Church
operational as soon as possible.”

Cllr O’ Sullivan stated that the lights had been erected a year ago and they still were not operational, and she called on Kildare County Council to contact the ESB and get the electricity connected so that they can be switched on. Cllr. Breslin added that the ESB were constantly letting us down and we should write to the chief executive of the ESB and get it resolved. The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that since the ESB had been segmented we did not know whom to contact. The engineer replied that efforts were being made to contact the ESB, and he was working on having the pedestrian lights operational.

Proposed by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.
All Agreed.



15. “That Athy Town Council instructs Kildare County Council to install a
pedestrian crossing on the N78 road at the GAA Centre Athy.”

Cllr Lawler speaking in support of his motion said that having the GAA, Soccer Club, Rugby Club, and Gael Scoil all situated in this area, meant that a lot of children and pedestrians were crossing the road at that point. He stated that he did not want to hold up traffic on the Dublin Rd, but public safety had to be our paramount concern.

Proposed by Cllr. Lawler.
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.
All Agree.


16. “That Athy Town Council ensure that all our premises are fitted with CFL
energy saving bulbs.”

Speaking on his motion Cllr Daly stated that if we as a council wished to do something for the environment we should look to ourselves first. Could we also look at advising our tenants of the difference it would make to the environment and to their energy bills if they used energy saving bulbs. Can we advise our tenants pre tenancy also.

Proposed by Cllr Daly.
Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
All Agreed.


17. “That Athy Town Council calls on the Minister for Education and Science
address the shortage of qualified Irish teachers which exist within the
country and effects our schools locally.”

Cllr Daly stated that this motion was self-explanatory, and the issue should be brought to attention of the minister. The Cathaoirleach informed the meeting that as chairperson of the VEC he welcomed the motion and said that the shortage of Irish teachers was a serious matter.

Proposed by Cllr. Daly.
Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
All Agreed.


18. “ That Athy Town Council establish a Procedures and Protocol Committee
to ensure the efficient and transparent operation of our Council.”

Cllr. Daly said that as a council we need to examine how we do business. We need to sit down with the new Town Clerk and management and draw up a set of procedures of how we conduct business. Their needs to be clarification of what happens when motions get passed, why the same motions appear again and again on the agenda, even though the motions had been passed at previous meetings. Why are reports not circulated to the members? The councillors should be getting feedback on the progress of motions passed. The Cathaoirleach suggested that a committee be set up at the October meeting to investigate this matter. Cllr. Daly requested that this include the standing order committee.

Proposed by Cllr Daly.
Seconded by Cllr Lawler.
All Agreed.


19. De-Listing of 22 Offaly Street Athy.

The Town clerk informed the meeting that the procedures had been carried out for de-listing 22 Offaly Street and asked that 22 Offaly Street be de-listed from the record of protected structures of Athy Town Development Plan 2006-2012.

Proposed by Cllr. Dalton,
Seconded by Cllr. Breslin.
All Agreed.


20. Cathaoirleach Business:
The Cathaoirleach informed the members that he proposed holding a civic reception on Friday the 5th of October to celebrate the Dominican Order’s 750th anniversary in Athy. A plaque will be unveiled on the 6th of October, and he stated he had requested the priors’ advice on the wording and where the plaque is to be situated. Cllr Dalton proposed the council make a contribution of €500.00 to the committee organising the celebrations.

That payment of €500.00 be made to the committee organising the Dominican’s 750th celebrations.
Proposed by Cllr. Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr. O’Sullivan.
All Agreed.

The Cathaoirleach also sent best wishes to the 4 members of the Athy Boxing club off to the world championships. He also wished all the Olympians off to the Special Olympics in China luck with a special mention to Stephen Roche from Kilmead. The Cathaoirleach informed the members that the Olympic torch would be visiting Kilmead on Tuesday the 25th of September at 2.00pm.

The Cathaoirleach congratulated the Tidy Towns committee on the results Athy received in the Tidy Towns competition. Athy achieved 240 marks, and this was an increase of 23 marks on last year. He requested that a copy of the results be circulated to the members at the October monthly meeting.

The Cathaoirleach also stated that the closing ceremony for the year of the Barrow would take place in Athy in October.
He welcomed the two new community wardens Mary Boland and Jennifer Mulhall, and he welcomed the new county road safety officer Declan Keogh. He wished to invite Declan Keogh to the October Monthly meeting.

The Cathaoirleach also extended congratulations to KARE who are celebrating 40 years in existence, and the Athy branch would be celebrating this Shrewleen Lane.

The Cathaoirleach also informed the meeting that he did not attend the area committee meeting as he did not receive notification to attend.

The Cathaoirleach informed the councillors that a meeting was being organized with Joe Boland, RPS consultants and the members, on the Northern Distributor Route.

The Cathaoirleach also stated that he would be resigning from the Rapid Area Implementation team and stated that he had enjoyed working on all the various agendas, and he sought a member to replace him on the committee. He requested that the members elect a replacement.

That Cllr Daly replace the Cathaoirleach on the Rapid Area Implementation team,
Proposed by Cllr. O Sullivan.
Seconded by Cllr. Scully.
All Agreed.

Cllr. Daly stated that he would resign his position as VEC representative on the committee, and take up the place of council representative on the committee. The Cathaoirleach congratulated Cllr. Daly on his appointment as the Athy Town Council representative.

To Suspend Standing Orders.
Proposed by Cllr Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed.

21. Manager’s Business:

· Circular Increment (EL 05/07) Application of increases
under Section 27.17. of towards 2016

Proposed by Cllr. Dalton.
Seconded by Cllr. Lawler.
All Agreed

22. Planning Register.


23. Any Other Business.

Cllr Breslin informed the members that she was disappointed that Frank Corr had to go to the ombudsman to get a reply to his queries and she requested a copy of the correspondence. She referred to the river bank planning application and stated that the rowing club was to have been consulted before a planning application was submitted. She requested that a meeting be set up with the rowing club.

Cllr Wright highlighted the fact that the fuse box in 55 Clonmullin had gone on fire; the fire brigade had been called. This fuse box had been replaced, and he requested that the fuse boxes in all the council’s houses in Clonmullin be inspected.

Cllr Breslin asked if smoke alarms were in all the council’s houses. She also asked if the bus bays outside St. Michael’s school be realigned and would the council look at tarmacing the entrance to St. Michael’s boxing club. Would the engineer look at these issues?

Cllr Lawler asked if the engineer would look at the following, resurfacing on the Kildare road, and cutting back overgrown hedges on the footpath outside Perry’s garage. The lighting in the people’s park and the handing over of the jetties on the Barrow to the council, though this will have insurance implications.

The Cathaoirleach replied that he had spoken to John Lynch regarding the taking over of the jetties on the Barrow, and he said he had informed him to submit his request in writing to the council.

Cllr. Dalton enquired if there had been any progress on the 1798 monument.

Cllr Lawler stated that he had spoken to the former engineer on the matter and he asked the new town engineer to meet with him to discuss the issue.

THIS CONCLUDED THE BUSINESS OF THE MEETING

Minutes of July Meeting

MINUTES OF JULY MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 7.30 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, 18th JULY, 2007 IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

CATHAOIRLEACH : COUNCILLOR CUNNANE

COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE: COUNCILLORS, SCULLY
DALTON, ENGLISH, BRESLIN
O’SULLIVAN, WRIGHT.



OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE : T SKEHAN, TOWN MANAGER,
M. AHEARNE A/ TOWN CLERK,
OLIVE KAVANAGH A/SO.

APOLOGIES : COUNCILLOR LAWLER & DALY.



6.30 P.M – Deputation from Rheban Manor Residents Association

The Cathaoirleach welcomed all to the meeting and requested the representatives from Rheban Manor residents association to make their presentation to the council.

Ger Davis spoke on behalf of the Rheban Manor Residents Association and asked the following,

The residents wanted to know why planning inspectors have not inspected whether works had been carried out by the developer i.e. works to finish the estate in accordance with the planning conditions. The developer has left many jobs unfinished. Reps from the residents association met with the developer in Antrim in December and the developer informed them that he had requested a snag list from the council and he had not received this. The developer had carried out some works as a result of this meeting. The residents wanted to know if bonds held by the council could be used to carry out unfinished works, and would the council take the estate in charge.

Mr. Davis also stated that there are 322 houses in the estate and 700 cars using the roads in the estate, and some of them are speeding and the residents association requested that the council install ramps within the estate to slow down the traffic.

He also requested that the litter warden enforce the litter laws in the estate, fine people who dump or burn household rubbish and whose bins are overflowing with rubbish in their front gardens for weeks on end, also fine tenants who leave full rubbish bins outside of properties they have vacated. They also requested that the litter warden co-operate with the committee in clean up projects.
Mr. Davis asked why Athy Town Council had not answered any of their letters or e-mails regarding these issues.

He also asked what was happening with the 22 vacant houses in Holland’s Park. These houses are being vandalised and that section of the estate was being turned into a slum. These houses were not being monitored. The association also requested that the council monitor anti-social behaviour in the council houses within the estate.

The residents association requested that the money given to the council by the developer for work which would benefit the estate, be used only for the benefit of the residents and the money received (bonds) be used to finish any outstanding unfinished work within the estate. They requested that the money needed for the repair of the 22 houses in Holland’s Park be found from other sources.

When the deputation had concluded the Cathaoirleach informed the councillors that they could seek clarification of the issues raised from the residents association.

The Town Clerk read a report on the housing development at Rheban Manor to the meeting.

Councillor Dalton requested that a copy of this report be circulated to the members.

Councillor Breslin stated that Colm Flynn had informed her that several enforcement notices had been served and a detailed snag list had been completed. She also asked where the enforcement officer Sean Byrne’s report was as he had been in the estate for days carrying out an inspection.

Councillor Dalton acknowledged that all of the points raised by the residents association were relevant, and that the issues had been ongoing for a number of years. He asked for clarification on any repairs required on the 22 houses and said they were becoming an island slum in the middle of the estate. He asked for assurance that public money would not be used to repair them.

The manager thanked the delegation and said there had been many difficulties with this development. It is before the courts at present. The land was zoned for housing; the developer had got his profits from the sale of the houses. The developer has a responsibility to complete the estate to the standard as laid down in the planning permission. He also stated that the residents association would have to apply formally to the council to have the estate taken in charge and requested that they submit a formal application to the council. Upon receipt of this the council would get the engineer to assess what works needed to be carried out.

Councillor English enquired if the bond money held by council would be sufficient to cover all of the works needed to finish the estate.

The manager replied that he doubted it would be enough to cover the works.

Councillor Dalton said that if this were the case then works would have to be prioritised.

Councillor English stated that the developer had made the money from the sale of houses in the estate and we cannot let him off the hook. He enquired if there was anyway the council could get any more money off him.

The Cathaoirleach replied that it is normal to use the bond and that the council covers the shortfall.

Councillor Dalton informed the meeting that the Part V problem was critical. He stated he knew it was being pursued through legal channels and he said the council should do whatever it had to sort out the problem.

The Town Clerk addressed the residents association on their litter warden request, stating that the litter warden’s position had been vacant since January. A new litter warden had only been appointed a week or two ago and she would enforce the litter laws within the estate. Athy Town Council has also employed two new community wardens who will work with the residents association on these issues.

Councillor Scully concurred with what the issues raised by the residents association, and stated that ramps were needed within the estate.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the deputation for their submissions. He requested that they submit a letter to the council requesting the council to take the estate in charge. He said the council would do its best to solve the problems and that the council would keep the residents informed.

Mr. Ger Davis thanked the councillors on behalf of the residents association.

7.10 pm Presentation by RPS on the Athy Northern Distributor Route feasibility study.

RPS representatives, Susan Joyce and Andrew Archer, Niamh Bannon. Daniel Brennan.
Mr. Joe Boland Director of Services Kildare County Council.
David Reel Roads Design Section Kildare County Council.

Joe Boland informed the meeting this was an information seminar, no decision was required this evening. He stated that the council should try to finalise a decision on this in September. He outlined the main constraints on the Northern Distributor route, these being existing roads, the Athy Golf course, the Barrow, the Grand Canal, Archaeological restraints etc. He outlined the three options A, B, C.

Suspend Standing Order at 7.30
On proposal of Councillor English.
Seconded by Mark Dalton.

RPS presented their report to the council. It outlined the above constraints, and reported on the findings of the public consultation held in the Carlton Abbey Hotel. The results of this public consultation were as follows, 110 people attended over the two days, 26 responded to the questionnaire. 11 of these respondents favoured route C, 10 respondents favoured route B, and 5 respondents favoured route A.

Following the consultation route A & B were moved slightly to reduce severance at Prussellstown. Routes were moved north to reduce impact on properties at Cardington Rd.

The main points on route B were that it was closer to the town and better for planning. It impacts on lands zoned for education. It was accessible to lands zoned for schools. It was a shorter route and it does not sever access to Barrowford house.

The main point of route B link to C were, it was further from the town and from a planning point of view was slightly less desirable. It does not impact on lands zoned for education. It was a longer route and this would affect journey times and cost. It severed access to Barrowford house.

They also outlined the options at Boheranouca crossroads.

The presentation looked at the three different routes, and the projected traffic flows in the town today and with the three options in 2017 and 2025. Route B was preferred for the following reasons; it was closer to town and thus was better form a planning point of view.

The WSP report presentation concluded that Route B is the preferred alignment of the Northern Relief Road in terms of traffic volumes carried and average network journey time. It stated that the Northern Relief Road should be built between 2017 and 2025 to maintain traffic volumes in town centre at or below current levels. It also concluded that despite provision of the Northern Relief route and Southern distributor road, traffic volumes in Athy would remain similar to present day traffic flows.

RPS Concluded that the next stage was to take into considerations the councillors comments. Carry out further investigations –Archit, Heritage & Ecology. Get approval on a route from Athy Town Council and revise the development plan.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the RPS and WSP for there presentation.

Councillor Dalton said he would take there advice on board. With regard to the educational lands, there were discussions pending with the Department of Education, and he said the council should talk to the VEC regarding this.

The Cathaoirleach replied that the VEC were in the process of purchasing lands next to their own 10 acres, on which it was proposed to build a Gael Scoil, He said this needed to be taken into account.

Councillor Wright said he was glad to see the inner relief street form part of the report as the provision of the street was critical for the town. He enquired if lands surrounding the purposed routes would be frozen until the route was decided on.

David Reel replied that when a route was defined it would be reserved from planning into the future.

Joe Boland stated that some work still had to be finalised and that they would take on board the councillors comments and give them any planning advice they needed.

Councillor English raised the query, “we have zoned a lot of land for building in the development plan, if we have to now refuse development on these lands due to the road route, could an action be taken against the council.”

Joe Boland replied that the roads design section had taken into account the existing zoning of lands when deciding on the route options. The sooner a route is picked the better.

The manager agreed with Joe Boland and said by finalising a route it would bring more certainty to the issue and thanked Joe Boland and his team as they had put a lot of work into furthering the road.

Councillor English requested Mr. Boland to update the council on the other roads projects.

Joe Boland replied that work would commence shortly on the new traffic flows at St. John’s Lane, and Meeting Lane and work should be finished on these by September. With regard to the Southern Distributor Route, a large amount of the work on this project has been completed. All the topographical work has been more of less completed. The Procurement process on this has been 80% completed. The ground investigation has been finalised. Negotiations with Iarnróid Eireann are very close to conclusion. Kildare County Council have committed to the design and CPO stages only. The funding aspects for building the road will have to be addressed.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the Joe Boland and his team for the work they had carried out on behalf of the Town Council and for his update on the projects.

Proposal to Resume Standing Orders
Proposed Mark Dalton.
Seconded Frank English.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed the new Co. Manager Mr. Michael Malone to the meeting, and said he hoped the manager would have a good working relationship with the town and he asked Tommy Skehan to introduce the new manager.

Tommy Skehan introduced the manager and he listed the local authorities the county manager had work in. He said the manager thinks strategically and welcomes his input into Athy Town Council

Mark Dalton added that he would like to be associated with the above remarks, he said it was fitting that the county manager was present for the council’s discussion on our most important piece of infrastructure. The council will need the county manager’s help to get funding for the infrastructure. The council would also need his expertise on how to develop Tegral’s tract of land when they exit the town centre.

Councillor Mary O’Sullivan welcomed the manager and looked forward to working with the manager.

Councillor Noel Scully also welcomed the new county manager.

Councillor Wright stated that he hoped the new county manager would use his skills to help this end of the county.

Councillor English also welcomed the new county manager.

The County Manager congratulated Councillor English on his 40 years as a councillor. He stated that he sees the manager, staff and the members working as a team, and said he would be looking to develop the strengths of each part of the county. He proceeded to outline some of the issues he sees facing Athy Town Council.

Employment.
Tegral’s relocation was good for the town. Tegral had confidence in Athy, and its decision not to relocate away from Athy was very good from an employment point of view. Athy Town Council and Kildare County Council would work with Tegral to help them with their relocation plans and advise them on the best options for their site in the town.

The enterprise centre units were full, and many additional units are being provided by the private sector. He stated that Kildare County Council was working with the IDA to attract Foreign Direct Investment. Attract industry to Kildare first, and then the council and IDA would look at dispersal within the county.

Retail
He stated that the retail strategy Athy Town Council was undertaking was important, for the quality of life in the town.

Rapid.
Rapid has been very successful in Athy.

New Communities.
One of the new issues facing Kildare is the large inward movement of people, and the challenge of helping these communities to bed in, and contribute to the community.

Tourism.
The challenge of how best to promote the resources of the Athy area, like the canal, the Barrow etc

Infrastructure.
The challenge of providing the infrastructure for the area, like roads, water service, housing etc.

The county manager concluded by hoping that the Town Council and Kildare County Council would work together in a strategic fashion, and he wished the members well.

The Cathaoirleach thanked the County Manager, and he stated in the past the southern part of the county was often neglected, but in the past two years he has sensed a change and he hoped that he new county manager would accelerate that change.


1.ADOPTION OF MINUTES

The minutes of the June monthly meeting held on the 20h of June were adopted.

On the proposal of Cllr Dalton
Seconded by Cllr English
And agreed

The minutes of the retail strategy meeting of Athy Town Council held on the 3rd of July were adopted.

On the proposal of Cllr English.
Seconded by Cllr Dalton.


2. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Cllr Wright enquired if any reply had been received to the letter written to the Inland Fisheries in regard to the mound near the Moneen River.

The Town Clerk replied that the correspondence had been issued but no response had been received.
Cllr Wright also enquired if it had been ascertained who was looking after the nun’s cemetery in Stanhope Place.

The Town Clerk replied that correspondence had been issued but no response had been received.

Councillor O’ Sullivan noted that Councillor Lawler and Councillor Dalton were not nominated to attend the AMAI conference. The councillors agreed that Councillor Dalton and O’Sullivan attend as delegates, and that Councillors Lawler, English, Scully and Cunnane attend the conference.

All Agreed

3. CORRESPONDENCE

· Letter from Scoil Phadraig Naofa Parent’s council thanking the councillors for their sponsorship of “A Gardening Evening with Helen Dillon.

Letter from Athy Community Development Project Ltd, requesting payment of €1,000.00 as agreed to support the establishment of the Athy Women’s Integrated Network. The Cathaoirleach asked if there were any objections to this payment. The councillors replied no.

All Agreed to payment of the €1000.00

· Notification of National Literacy Awareness week, 24th to 28th of September.

· Notification of the Taoiseach’s Public Service Excellence Awards.

· Notification of Pathfinding Conference in Flanders and the Somme.

· Notification of the 6th Annual Benedict Kiely literary, on the14th to the 16th of September in Omagh.

· Notification of Conference on Rural Tourism 2017-2013 in Kilkee, on the 6th and 7th of September.

· Notification of Conference on Developing Local Heritage for Tourism purposes in Listowel on the 6th and 7th of September.

· Notification of Conference on Local Government and the Arts in Tullamore on the 24th to the 26th of August.

Proposal that Mary O’Sullivan attend the conference on Local Government and the Arts.

On proposal of Mark Dalton.
Seconded by Frank English.

Proposal that Cllr Cunnane attend the conference on Local Government and the Arts.

On proposal of Councillor English.
Seconded by Councillor Dalton

· Notification of annual AMAI Conference on 13th to 15th of September, in New Ross.

· A letter from Dorothy Mullen thanking the councillors and staff of Athy Town Council for their kindness during her illness and bereavement.

· Correspondence from Waterways Ireland regarding a proposed development of a public footpath along the canal at Athy.

Councillor Dalton stated that he was not sure what the letter was about and proposed that it be put on the agenda for the next council meeting.

All Agreed


4. NOTICES OF MOTION Cllr Wright

“That we as a council look at the possibility of having Kildare County Council and the Department of Health to investigate water pollution in the river Barrow from raw sewage coming from Portarlington and Monasterevin and that in all my years I have never seen the Barrow so filthy.”


The Motion was deferred to the September meeting.



5. NOTICES OF MOTION Cllr Dalton and Cllr English.

“That this council provide a new name stone for the Coneyboro Housing Estate”

Councillor Dalton stated there is a lot of confusion regarding post etc between the New Coneyboro estates and the old Coneyboro estate. Can the council provide a new ornamental name stone for the Coneyboro estate? And can the issue of calling new estates names that are similar to older estates be brought to the attention of the planners

.
On proposal of Councillor Dalton.
Seconded by Councillor English.
All Agreed

6. NOTICES OF MOTION; Cllr Breslin

“That Athy Town Council ask the Minister for the Environment to lower the age from eighteen to sixteen for persons eligible to vote in all elections”

Motion Deferred.



7. NOTICES OF MOTION; Cllr Breslin

“That Athy Town Council investigates the feasibility of a yearly servicing of gas central heating system for tenants who are old age pensioners”

Motion Deferred.


8. NOTICES OF MOTION; Cllr O’Sullivan.

“That the town council updates its members re the forthcoming decentralisation to Athy”

Councillor O’Sullivan stated that it was announced that they were coming in June and requested an update on the situation.

The Town Clerk informed the councillors that initially 50 people would be coming towards the end of September, and the Department was in the process of looking for suitable accommodation for the remaining 250.

Councillor Dalton informed the meeting that it was announced in the papers in June that 75 people would be on site in Sept or Oct.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed the 50 or 75 people but he stated that he was disappointed that no permanent site had been found yet.

On Proposal of Cllr O’ Sullivan.
Seconded by Cllr Dalton.
Resolved.


10. CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS

The Cathaoirleach stated that since the last meeting Aontas Orgra had celebrated 50 years, Councillor English has celebrated his 40 years as a councillor, and the contracts for the Ardrew housing development had been signed. The Cathaoirleach asked for an update on the Arts centre at Woodstock St.

The Town Clerk read correspondence on same, and stated that the Methodist church in Woodstock St. was being looked at.

Cllr Wright enquired if that was the only location being investigated, and he suggested looking at the old swimming pool site.

Cllr English stated that Cllr Wright had a valid point. He stated that the Methodist church is the preferred option of the various art groups.

The Cathaoirleach requested an update on the register of listed buildings, citing his query that the development plan had more protected structures listed than he thought was agreed in the development plan meetings.

The Town Clerk replied that she had requested a meeting with everyone involved in the development plan, and that she was going through the minutes of the development plan meetings with Mark McLoughlin. A meeting was being held next Wednesday with the other officials present at the Development Plan meetings.

The manager said we were entering the mid term review of the development plan in 2008 and perhaps it could be looked at then.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed Tegral’s news and said he was delighted that Tegral had shown their confidence and commitment to the town by staying in the area. Tegral’s wages contribution to the local economy was over 20 million per annum. He also paid tribute to the workers. Tegral’s move would open up a large tract of land in the town centre, which offered enormous possibilities, and the council would do everything in its power to facilitate development on the site.

Councillor Dalton agreed with the Cathaoirleach and said he had worked there for 18 years. He stated that it was the productivity and dedication of the workforce that had ensured Tegral’s stay in the area. He said the council, the manager, the planners would work with Tegral’s management to facilitate development on the site.

Councillor Wright agreed with the above and he stated it would give encouragement to other multi-nationals to invest in Athy.

The manager concurred with the above and thanked the management and workforce of Tegral and he added that Tegral would have the full support of the Athy Town Council and Kildare County Council.



11. MANAGER’S BUSINESS

The manager informed the meeting that Pride of Place judging would be taking place shortly.

The Town Clerk stated the judging would take place next Wednesday next 10.00am.


12 REPORTS FROM SUB-COMMITTEE

Cllr Scully informed the meeting that he had asked several times for a meeting of the cemetery sub-committee to be held.

Cllr O’ Sullivan stated that she had enquired a while ago about a meeting and had been informed that one was to take place soon, but to date none had taken place.

The Town Clerk noted this fact and said she would write to Eddie Lawler regarding setting up a meeting of the cemetery committee.

The Town Clerk also read out the heritage centre report of forthcoming events.

Cllr Dalton requested that a copy of the report be circulated to each member.


13. PLANNING REGISTER


14. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Cllr Dalton raised the issue of notification of councillor of housing allocations.
He said the members were notified when schemes of houses were allocated, but not when single allocations occurred. He requested that the members be furnished with a list of allocations each month at the council meeting. He also enquired if the council was purchasing 9 social houses in one estate.

The Manager agreed with this and stated that all councillors should be notified of all allocations.

The Town Clerk stated that the council was purchasing 9 social houses in Dun Brin, and each case was looked at individually.

Cllr Dalton replied that he felt that a good social mix should be achieved and that the social houses should be peppered throughout the estate not in a block of 9 together.

Cllr Wright raised the issue of photographs taken by John Minahan of a local person, being on the cover of a book by another author.

Cllr Wright also raised the following issues, the tarmac in Garter Lane, the facia boards in Greenhills, the railings in Kirwan’s Lane, the clean up of the swimming pool, the temporary path to Pettit’s from Greenhills.

The Town Clerk replied that the Town Foreman was going to oversee the clean up op the swimming pool.

The Town Clerk informed the members that Helen Dowling would be departing on Friday and that their would be an informal gathering for tea and cakes on Friday the 17th at 4.30pm. She said she would be in contact with the councillors to organise an official presentation.

Cllr O’ Sullivan congratulated Cllr Dalton on his election as president of Athy Lyons Club.




THIS CONCLUDED THE BUSINESS OF THE MEETING


CATHAOIRLEACH: ________________________

DATE: ____________________________________

Minutes of June 07 Monthly Meeting

MINUTES OF JUNE MONTHLY MEETING OF ATHY TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 7.30 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JUNE, 2007 IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICES, RATHSTEWART, ATHY.

CATHAOIRLEACH : COUNCILLOR BRESLIN

COUNCILLORS IN ATTENDANCE: COUNCILLORS CUNNANE,
DALTON, DALY, ENGLISH,
LAWLER, O’SULLIVAN,
WRIGHT.


OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE : T SKEHAN, TOWN MANAGER,
H. DOWLING, TOWN CLERK,
M. AHEARNE, A/SSO.

APOLOGIES : COUNCILLOR SCULLY.


===================================================================

On the proposal of Cllr Dalton
Seconded by Cllr Cunnane
And agreed

MINUTES OF MAY MONTHLY MEETING HELD ON 16TH MAY, 2007

On the proposal of Cllr Daly
Seconded by Cllr English
And agreed

MINUTES OF MATERIAL CONTRAVENTION SPECIAL MEETING ON
14TH MAY, 2007

2. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Councillor Dalton requested an update on the Retail Strategy. The Town Clerk circulated a memo dated 13th June, 2007 from Marion Chalmers to all councillors.

Councillor Dalton requested an update in regard to the Coneyboro water situation. The Town Clerk read a report from Town Engineer Noel Dillon outlining there was little the Council could do until legal proceedings had decided otherwise. The Town Clerk outlined that the pressure had improved a little since the commencement of leak detection works and that the 11th September, 2007 was the date set for the court. Cllr Dalton requested assurance from the officials that there would not be an adjournment. The Town Manager said he would assist where he could.

Councillor Daly requested an update re: Whitecastle Lawns Boat Slip and right of way in People’s Park. The Town Clerk advised that Mr Donovan had submitted revised drawings and that a special meeting could be organised to discuss further. The Town Clerk also outlined that the Council had a map to say land was not ours to which Cllr Daly requested to know the legal position. The Town Clerk stated it was private land. Cllr Wright stated it was the caretaker’s years ago.

Councillor Daly stated that the IBAL seems to be out of sink and that it was a pity we don’t have an engineer at the moment. He stated it was critically important to keep the sweeping up to date. The Town Manager stated that interviews were held yesterday and the Town Council would have an engineer in a few weeks. The Town Clerk outlined that Athy was participating in Pride Of Place in a number of areas, St Dominick’s Park, CDP, Boxing club, Travellers club and Age Action. Councillor English stated we needed more litterbins in the park and that there were probably six seats without bins. Councillor O’Sullivan noted that a request was made to paint the seats. The Town Clerk said she would investigate. Cllr Wright noted that the park was beautiful and that litter was irresponsible. He requested more tables in the park to which the town clerk replied she would investigate. Councillor Dalton congratulated the progress made at McCauley Park and noted a lot of work had been done.

Councillor Daly requested an update on the swimming pool. The Town Clerk advised that a letter was sent out on the 29th May and that no reply had been received to date. Cllr Wright stated the ambience around the whole new swimming pool was disgraceful and could anything be done to improve the old pool visually. The Town Manager said he would look at this.

3. CORRESPONDENCE

IBAL – Irish Business Against Litter placing Athy 31st in the Moderately Littered rating.


Invitation from Clifford Reid retracing Sir Ernest Shackleton’s footsteps across South Georgia Island at Athy Library on Tuesday 26th June, 2007.

Training Seminar for Councillors – The Local Government Planning Service, Thursday, 5th to Saturday, 7th July, 2007 at The Baltimore Harbour Hotel, Baltimore, West Cork.

Letter from Department of Social and Family Affairs dated 16th May, 2007 re possible waiver of waste collection charges for pensioners.

Letter from Department of Environment re waiver of waste charges.
Cllr Wright stated that the letter did not mean anything anymore and requested the Town Clerk to write to the new minister, Mr Gormley. Cllr Cunanne stated it was grossly unfair and that it was not social justice to have no discretion in the same way that Bus Eireann and TV Licensing have. Cllr Wright stated that Kildare County Council gives free waivers and now that Athy has development levies we should subsidise.

Confederation of European Councillors hosting a one day Seminar in the Killyhevlin Hotel, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh on Friday, 29th June, 2007 to focus on ‘Tackling Poverty and Social Need in Ireland, North & South’.

Councillor Dalton informed the meeting that this seminar is now cancelled.

A letter from Jean-Pierre VASSEUR, Chairman of the Twinning Committee thanking the members of Athy Town Council for the warm welcome they received when over for the Water Festival.

A thank you for councillor’s contribution from The Inland Waterways Association of Ireland North Barrow Branch.

People of the Year awards Nomination Form 2007 closing date Friday, 20th July 2007.

Preliminary Notice Association of Irish Regions 10th Annual Conference – “The Challenge of Climate Change for the Island of Ireland”, The Malton Hotel (Formerly The Great Southern Hotel), Town Centre, Killarney, Co Kerry, Friday, 19th October, 2007. Councillor Dalton requested that this be noted for the September meeting.

Chambers Ireland requesting nomination for the Partnership with Business Award 2007 by 29th June, 2007.

Athy Age Action Committee, Requested letter addressed to Kildare Civil Defence to be read re: Charity Walk on Sunday, 9th September, 2007.

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler
And Seconded by Cllr Cunanne
And Agreed

That a €500 donation be paid.

Social and Community Facilities Capital Scheme 2007 Approval of Grant – KE003/07 – Renovation of Heritage Centre, Athy €49,000 granted.

AMAI Conference in September

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler
Seconded by Cllr English
And agreed

That Cllr O’Sullivan attend

On the proposal of Cllr Dalton
Seconded by Cllr Lawler
And agreed

That Cllr English attend

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler
Seconded by Cllr Dalton
And agreed

That Cllr Scully attend

On the proposal of Cllr O’Sullivan
Seconded by Cllr English
And agreed

That Cllr Cunanne attend.


Councillor O’Sullivan requested that the plots be included in the correspondence to Iarnrod Eireann and that a copy of the correspondence received be reissued to Cllr O’Sullivan, Cllr Breslin and Cllr Lawler.


4. NOTICES OF MOTION

On the proposal of Cllr Wright
Seconded by Cllr Lawler
And agreed

5. “ That we as a Council seek confirmation from Kildare County Council and the Department of Environment that a footbridge will be erected over the barrow at Rathstewart so as to facilitate the people going to our new Swimming Pool and the people in general from the area.”

Cllr Wright stated the footbridge was essential for the town, paths are too narrow for pedestrians and he is awaiting an engineer’s report. It is in the Town Development Plan. It is not a costly job and the people of the town are crying out for it. Cha Chandlers put the motion in and we had no money. We will have a fabulous pool and need a bridge. Cllr Lawler supported the motion and noted it as a vision of the Development Plan and that it would seem the natural option to serve both ends of the town linking the schools, pitches, etc. Cllr Cunanne stated that there was a level of opposition 28 years ago but that it was definitely needed now. Cllr Daly noted to make sure it would be wheelchair friendly. Cllr Dalton remarked that the location of it would be critical. All members supported the motion.

The Town Manager stated that the footbridge is an objective of the Town Development Plan and that other projects are in consideration. The location, design and objective are critical and that Joe Boland, Director of Services would be attending the July Monthly Meeting.

Below Motion deferred

6. “That we as a council look at the possibility of having Kildare County Council and the Department of Health to investigate water pollution in the River Barrow from raw sewage coming from Portarlington and Monasterevan and that in all my years I have never seen the Barrow so filthy”

On the proposal of Cllr Wright
No Seconder

7. “That in view of the fact that Councils and Corporations around the Country have demolished low cost and old houses so as to provide better houses for their tenants I propose that we look at the possibility of doing likewise with Woodstock Houses and to relocate some and spread others out with consultation with the tenant’s and the Department of Environment as these houses will not stand the test of time”.

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler
Seconded by Cllr Dalton
And agreed

8. “That Athy Town Council de-list the property at Number 22 Offaly Street, Athy as the listing of this property is causing great inconvenience for the owner”.

The Town Clerk stated she would start the statutory process.

On the proposal of Cllr O’Sullivan
Seconded by Cllr Daly
And agreed

9. “That the Town Council could provide clothes and plastics bank along the bank at Edmund Rice Square”

Cllr O’Sullivan noted that people had requested it recently and that it would reduce refuse. Cllr Daly noted that recycling should be easy, we need more adequate provision and that the amenity centre is not accessible to all. Cllr Lawler did not support the motion because of the potential of them being set on fire. Cllr English requested if it could be monitored but agreed that if they were burnt they would look unsightly. Cllr O’Sullivan noted that the Bottle Bank in Nurney had a sign on it stating that a donation was being made to The Asthma Society.

The Town Clerk stated that there are alternatives at the moment, St Vincent De Paul being one. Helen noted that they were taken away because they were burnt out. Town Clerk agreed that CCTV could be considered if further funding was made available.

On the proposal of Cllr Daly
Seconded by Cllr O’Sullivan
And agreed

10. “That Athy Town Council erect signage at strategic locations informing people of our bye-laws on drinking alcohol in public places”.

Cllr Daly proposed the motion and noted he was trying to curb drinking illegally in the town and that we are lucky to have byelaws. The Horse Bridge was a particularly bad area. Cllr O’Sullivan noted that Off Licences could be brought into this too. Cllr Cunanne supported the motion and has requested prosecution figures for drinking in public places from the JPC. Cllr Breslin wondered how we could go about introducing a levy on cans. Cllr Lawler stated the role of the publican’s and supermarkets was very important. Cllr Dalton supported the motion fully, it’s a by-product to crime, and litter, anti-social behaviour/suicides and can have an intimidating feeling. Cllr Dalton we currently have a lot of signage that needs to be cleaned.

On the proposal of Cllr Daly
Seconded by Cllr Dalton
And agreed

11. “ That Athy Town Council calls on Kildare County Council to erect ramps on the Kilberry Road entrance to the town to slow down traffic”.

Councillor Daly remarked how cars are travelling at speed coming in from the straight stretch of road and has had a number of complaints from the resident’s of St Joseph’s Terrace. This needed to be addressed urgently. All councillors supported this motion and the need to protect life is important and that ramps are successful in slowing down traffic.

The Town Clerk read a report from Area Engineer.


12. CATHAOIRLEACH’S BUSINESS

The Cathaoirleach thanked Cllr Lawler and all the members for their contribution to the Ceremony for the Privates.

The Cathaoirleach noted that it was important to set a date to discuss the Retail Strategy.

The Cathaoirleach also noted that Cllr English would be 40 years a councillor next month – making him the ‘Daddy of the Chamber’ proposing July 6th or 9th to have a presentation.

Cllr English informed all he was first elected on 28th June, 1967. Cllr Daly said he would be on holidays for both dates unfortunately. All agreed July 6th.

The Cathaoirleach congratulated the Town Clerk on her recent promotion to RAPID co-ordinator. All councillors noted that Linda Mulhall would be a hard act to follow but there was no doubt that Helen would fulfil the role and do a fantastic job. Cllr Cunanne congratulated Helen on behalf of the A.I.T.Cllr O’Sullivan wished Helen all the best and noted how courteous and helpful Helen was at all times. The Town Manager congratulated Helen and was glad she was not leaving the town. The Town Clerk replied by saying she was glad not to be leaving the town and that Athy had been very good to her too.

13. MANAGER’S BUSINESS

AFS 2007 – The Town Clerk noted that the long-term debt was down €145,000 this year and is now at €1.6 m, also stating there would be a six monthly report for the next meeting.

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler
Seconded by Cllr Cunanne
And agreed

RE: Over expenditure

On the proposal of Cllr Lawler
Seconded by Cllr Cunanne
And agreed

RE: AFS 2007

Cllr English raised a query re the Water Collection Rate and was happy with the response that it was an issue in regard to the issuing of the bills and not the customers refusing to pay. The Town Manager thanked the cathaoirleach and members for their support in putting the budget together.

14. REPORTS FROM SUB-COMMITTEES

No reports to note.

The Town Clerk noted that a report on the Heritage, Community Council, Graveyard and Arts would follow at the next meeting.

15. PLANNING REGISTER

Cllr Wright wanted an update on the Shaws file. The Town Clerk stated the file was due next week and that there had been an objection.

Cllr Dalton enquired when we planned to scan the files. The Town Clerk stated she had a meeting next week in regard to this and would keep members informed.

Cllr Cunanne requested clarity on why there would be a planning application for a sub station.

Cllr Dalton queried where we were at in regard to the Development Levy Review. The Town Manager replied that Mr John Lahart is reviewing the County at the moment and Athy would be reviewed as part of this in September/October. The Town Manager noted that the 50% reduction served us well at the time and it is due a review now.

16. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

The Cathaoirleach passed on congratulations to Olive Kavanagh, Audrey Myles and Maria Ahearne for all passing exams recently.

The Cathaoirleach sympathised with the Town Manager on the death of his mother Mrs Nora Skehan.

Cllr Wright requested that a letter be written to the Inland Fisheries in regard to the mound near the Moneen River.

Cllr Wright enquired who is responsible for looking after the nun’s graves at the Carlton site. Sr Brendan Walsh is buried here and he would like it looked after.

Cllr Wright requested to find out who was responsible for the school wall at Convent View. The Town Clerk read a report compiled by the Town Engineer before he left. It was agreed that the Department of Education should be written to.

Cllr Daly conveyed congratulations to the three elected TDs and other members agreed and noted that Cllr Daly’s vote numbers were very good for the first time running.

Cllr Lawler remarked that bins are at times very full in the town and requested that the Town Clerk write to the Model School Board of Management with regard to the dangerous parking on the road instead of using the access system provided by the School.

Cllr Cunanne noted the triathlon was a fantastic success and requested that the organisers be written a letter of congratulations.

Cllr Dalton noted that the river was used on two successive weekends and that the river is underutilised.

Cllr O’Sullivan congratulated Arthur Lynch and his team for the successful triathlon. Cllr O’Sullivan thanked Tidy Towns on the way the square was prepared. The slipway at Dr McDougalds has been cleaned up too and the Town Clerk noted that the rail was on the way.

Cllr Wright requested that AIB be written to, to take away the ‘jungle’ at the front of their premises. Cllr Cunanne supported this and requested the manager be written to and asked to attend a council meeting.

Cllr Dalton noted that Aontas Ogra are 40 years next Thursday and to write a letter to them.

A minute’s silence was observed for the death of Mrs Nora Skehan, mother of Town Manager, Mr Tommy Skehan.


THIS CONCLUDED THE BUSINESS OF THE MEETING


CATHAOIRLEACH: ________________________
DATE: _______________________