Minutes of PUBLIC MEETING held at Garve Village Hall on 24th January 2011
Chairman: Bob Cameron Corporate Manager Highland Council.
Present: Robbie Bain Ward Manager, Di Agnew Ward Manager (Black Isle), Jonn Barnes and Nicola Brookes – Eneco; Robert Trotta, Sophie Moeng and Matilda Urie – E-ON; Mark van Rij – Infinergy; Daljit Singh – Scottish Communities Foundation; Val MacIver – Platform PR.
Members of public: 28
Meeting was opened at 7.00pm by Mr. Bob Cameron who welcomed everybody. Kenny MacLean Chairman of G&DCC then stated that there had been a public meeting 15 months ago when it was suggested that SCF should be invited to give a presentation to inform the community about the work they do managing community benefit funds. Also tonight we have representations from three windfarm companies here to give update on their present positions.
Jonn Barnes, Senior Production Developer – Eneco, gave a brief resume, stating that Eneco are a Dutch utility company, solely Dutch owned who have been operating in the UK for 2 ½ years with a windfarm in Aberdeen, Lochluichart and one offshore in southern England. Update on Lochluichart windfarm - further site investigations taking place, it will take over one year to build and will become operational in two to three years. They are creating a data base of plant contractors from the local area. They will honour the agreements already set up and are looking to finalise these agreements within the next few weeks, as they are keen to see the site built as soon as possible. The community benefit is £2750 per mega watt which equates to £140,000 per annum over 25 years. Pan Highland fund will not be part of this agreement.
Sophie Moeng - E-ON representative stated that E-on are already negotiating with SCF on 2 other windfarms. They are constructing 2 windfarms in Highlands and have built 1 off-shore in Solway Firth. They anticipate that the planning application will be determined on 8th March 2011. Negotiations taking place with Highland Council; community benefit on the table is £2750 per mega watt installed which equates to £120,000 per annum for 20-25 year life span. They wish to reserve the right to approve the fund manager. Pan Highland fund will not be part of this agreement.
Mark van Rij – Senior Project Manager, Infinergy. Having previously worked on the Lochluichart Windfarm application he knows the site well. Infinergy have started surveys for the proposed Extension and will complete the Environmental Statement soon. Plan to have public presentations on the proposed windfarm at the end of March 2011. The scheme will be smaller than previously proposed – less than 13 turbines. Cannot say much about community benefit at this early stage but it will not be less than £2750 per mega watt.
Daljit Singh – SCF. SCF work with over 50 Community Councils throughout Scotland to support and administer community benefit funds of different kinds. These groups need a vehicle to receive funds. SCF can provide a service to cover the administration of appointment of trustees, costs involved in management of Community Benefit Fund, auditing. They open a bank account for the fund which is a restricted fund. A written agreement will be in place on how funds are spent. Decisions would be made at Community Council meetings, minuted then passed onto SCF. SCF take legal responsibility; they monitor use of money granted to groups and report back to the Community Council. Cost of administration would be £400 per year. Community Council could also have a micro grant scheme where they have a pot of cash to hand out small sums of money direct to applicants – this would be an extra £100 per year to administer.
There is also an option to have an Endowment Fund, where some money is directed into an investment portfolio which is managed by SCF appointed experts– gives a potentially bigger return than keeping the money in a bank account.
There is an option to set up an award programme for example a sum of money set aside each year to distribute to individuals or groups. SCF create an application form and set up a community panel to approve applications; they will run ballots to appoint the panel members.
Another option is to commission a community profile – this service costs extra.
SCF currently administer the Fairburn Windfarm Community Benefit Fund.
Robbie Bain Ward Manager – update on negotiations. The negotiations with Eneco are at an advanced stage and will hopefully be signed within days/ weeks. Negotiations with E-on are quite far forward – have agreed on a lot of principles but are not yet at the legal agreement stage.
Has not been asked to negotiate with Infinergy. By the time Infinergy are ready, the community may be able to negotiate with them directly. Infinergy have different ideas on what form community benefit may take – not necessarily cash, possibly cheap electricity instead.
Legal terms for Lochluichart – the signatories will be Eneco (LZN)/Landowner/Highland Council. The agreement will be binding on successors of all parties, i.e. if Highland Council became something else then that new body would still be bound to the agreement, and similarly for other signatories.
With Corriemoillie, it is not clear if the landowner will be a signatory – the agreement will be between E-on and Highland Council. In some cases SCF may be signatory rather than HC. E-on are keen to follow a similar agreement to the Lochluichart agreement.
The agreement allows the fund to be retrieved from SCF in the future.
Tea break was followed by Q & A session.
Q: If SCF are chosen are they willing to work with all three energy companies and vice versa?
A: Yes
Q: Are the developers willing to pay SCF fees?
A: Eneco – open to suggestions; E-on – open to suggestions; Infinergy – open to suggestions.
Comments: Understand that it is the norm for developers to pay fees; Fairburn developers pay the fees.
Q: Would payment of the fees be in the contract?
A: (Robbie Bain) Actively negotiating.
Q: Do the public get a vote on setting up fund?
Comments: Fairburn have a public meeting and four people are elected to the panel; Highland Council would be guided by CC; CC want to hear the public’s views so CC as elected representatives of community can make the decision.
Q: Are SCF the only body offering this service?
A: No, but others charge more.
Kenny MacLean, CC Chairman then asked what the general feeling in the room was, should we get SCF involved? Positive response, no-one objected.
Community Council aim for this meeting was to put the SCF option on the table for the public to consider so they can then go away and think about it; CC will make decision at next CC meeting and welcomes responses from members of public.
Other Comments – Could negotiations on cheaper electricity from Infinergy start now? A (Robbie Bain) there is not enough information to base negotiations on yet; both Eneco and E-on are clear in their agreements that money is for charitable groups not individuals; Pan Highland Fund would be a 3 tier system that may address the idea of individuals applying for money/ free electricity etc (in the future); member of public keen on idea of free electricity.
Bob Cameron thanked CC, speakers, tea ladies, audience for coming and Jean Hollingdale for taking minutes and closed the meeting at 8.40pm.
Press Release: Highland emergency restrictions on the use of road salt removed
Tuesday, 25 January 2011
A 2,000 Tonne load of salt delivered to Inverness yesterday (24 January 2011) has boosted total stock on salt for Highland Council roads to 14,800 Tonnes.
With a further 8,300 Tonnes due later in the week, stocks are now sustainably above the 12,800 Tonne threshold at which Councillors decided last week that restrictions should be lifted.
Of the recent deliveries, 7,600 Tonnes has come from the Government’s strategic stock and the remainder from our usual supplier. A total of 57,000 Tonnes has been used so far this winter.
The restrictions were imposed on 23 December when stocks were dwindling and there were no guaranteed deliveries on the way.
The improved rate of delivery, together with a few days milder weather, has allowed stocks to recover. The use of salt/sand mix on priority 3 and 4 routes, instead of just sand, will recommence from tomorrow morning, 26 January, while higher priority routes may be treated with pure salt.
The public are still advised to be cautious when travelling in adverse weather and to remember that the application of salt cannot guarantee that roads will be ice free.
-ends-
Chief Executive's Service
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
A 2,000 Tonne load of salt delivered to Inverness yesterday (24 January 2011) has boosted total stock on salt for Highland Council roads to 14,800 Tonnes.
With a further 8,300 Tonnes due later in the week, stocks are now sustainably above the 12,800 Tonne threshold at which Councillors decided last week that restrictions should be lifted.
Of the recent deliveries, 7,600 Tonnes has come from the Government’s strategic stock and the remainder from our usual supplier. A total of 57,000 Tonnes has been used so far this winter.
The restrictions were imposed on 23 December when stocks were dwindling and there were no guaranteed deliveries on the way.
The improved rate of delivery, together with a few days milder weather, has allowed stocks to recover. The use of salt/sand mix on priority 3 and 4 routes, instead of just sand, will recommence from tomorrow morning, 26 January, while higher priority routes may be treated with pure salt.
The public are still advised to be cautious when travelling in adverse weather and to remember that the application of salt cannot guarantee that roads will be ice free.
-ends-
Chief Executive's Service
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
Press Release: Young People wanted
Tuesday 25 January 2011
Young people from across the Highlands still have time to stand as candidates in the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) elections which take place across Scotland in March.
SYP is the national organisation which provides young people aged 14-25 a platform to represent young people across Highland and Scotland and is an opportunity to influence politicians and formal decision makers.
Anyone aged 14-25 who wants to be part of the next group of youth activists can either stand as a candidate in the elections, or influence the voting in the upcoming elections this March.
Being an Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament involves consulting with young people to find out their views and opinions on the subjects important to them; taking part in local events representing your constituents; representing peers at SYP National Sittings held several times a year all over Scotland; taking part in discussions and debates; playing an active role in SYP campaigns and training.
The Highland Youth Convener Gemma Mackintosh said: “Last year nearly 35,000 votes were cast across Scotland so young people do want to get involved. This is an exciting opportunity to make a difference and get involved in helping to make Highland and Scotland a better place for all young people.”
Interested young people should go to www.syp.org.uk/elections to sign up as a candidate. The nominations process will close on 11th February and voting will take place in March 2011.
-ends-
Chief Executive's Service
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
Young people from across the Highlands still have time to stand as candidates in the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) elections which take place across Scotland in March.
SYP is the national organisation which provides young people aged 14-25 a platform to represent young people across Highland and Scotland and is an opportunity to influence politicians and formal decision makers.
Anyone aged 14-25 who wants to be part of the next group of youth activists can either stand as a candidate in the elections, or influence the voting in the upcoming elections this March.
Being an Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament involves consulting with young people to find out their views and opinions on the subjects important to them; taking part in local events representing your constituents; representing peers at SYP National Sittings held several times a year all over Scotland; taking part in discussions and debates; playing an active role in SYP campaigns and training.
The Highland Youth Convener Gemma Mackintosh said: “Last year nearly 35,000 votes were cast across Scotland so young people do want to get involved. This is an exciting opportunity to make a difference and get involved in helping to make Highland and Scotland a better place for all young people.”
Interested young people should go to www.syp.org.uk/elections to sign up as a candidate. The nominations process will close on 11th February and voting will take place in March 2011.
-ends-
Chief Executive's Service
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
Press Release: Emergency measures remain in place to conserve winter salt supplies
Thursday 20 January 2011: Members of The Highland Council’s Transport Environmental and Community Services Committee have agreed that emergency measures to conserve road salt should remain in place until the stock returns to a sustainable level of 12,800 tonnes, which provides eight days of supply at heavy usage.
The latest stock level stands at 12,300 tonnes and it is hoped that the restrictions can be lifted by the end of next week, if further scheduled salt supplies arrive. At this time last year, the stock stood at 5,055 tonnes.
The emergency measures were introduced on 23 December, last year, when there was a danger of exhausting the stock before the end of the year if the consumption had continued at its maximum of 2,200 tonnes per day. By that time, the Council had used 40,300 tonnes.
Even before 23 December, the Council had reduced consumption to 1,600 tonnes per day by mixing salt with grit, which is permissible under the Council’s Winter Maintenance policy.
As a consequence of the emergency measures, low priority routes are treated with grit only. Low priority routes are defined as Priority 3 and 4 routes in the Council’s winter maintenance policy. If dangerous road conditions develop on Priority 3 and 4 routes, and salt is required to treat ice, efforts are made to treat localised sections with salt in the interests of public safety.
Committee members also heard that following the very cold temperatures experienced last year the Scottish Government had provided £5 million to local authorities for road repairs. Highland’s share was £552,000, The Council also provided £1.1 million to deal with the additional damage to the road network. The Scottish Government had announced that £15 million will be provided to local authorities to assist with the additional damage caused during the current winter period. The allocation of funding between Councils is still to be announced.
-ends-
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
The latest stock level stands at 12,300 tonnes and it is hoped that the restrictions can be lifted by the end of next week, if further scheduled salt supplies arrive. At this time last year, the stock stood at 5,055 tonnes.
The emergency measures were introduced on 23 December, last year, when there was a danger of exhausting the stock before the end of the year if the consumption had continued at its maximum of 2,200 tonnes per day. By that time, the Council had used 40,300 tonnes.
Even before 23 December, the Council had reduced consumption to 1,600 tonnes per day by mixing salt with grit, which is permissible under the Council’s Winter Maintenance policy.
As a consequence of the emergency measures, low priority routes are treated with grit only. Low priority routes are defined as Priority 3 and 4 routes in the Council’s winter maintenance policy. If dangerous road conditions develop on Priority 3 and 4 routes, and salt is required to treat ice, efforts are made to treat localised sections with salt in the interests of public safety.
Committee members also heard that following the very cold temperatures experienced last year the Scottish Government had provided £5 million to local authorities for road repairs. Highland’s share was £552,000, The Council also provided £1.1 million to deal with the additional damage to the road network. The Scottish Government had announced that £15 million will be provided to local authorities to assist with the additional damage caused during the current winter period. The allocation of funding between Councils is still to be announced.
-ends-
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
Press Release: Council welcomes Euro-funding boost
Friday 21 January 2011: Highland Councillors have welcomed the award of £1.24 million of Euro funding towards three transport and travel projects in the Highlands.
£500,000 worth of European Regional Development Funding will help the £2 million enhancement of the assembly area of the Sconser Ferry Terminal in Skye and provide much-needed additional parking spaces for cars, buses and commercial vehicles.
The project, which is due to start in October of this year and last for a year, will bring the waiting area for the ferry into the 21st century and provide a modern approach to this, the only gateway to Raasay.
Councillor John Laing, Chairman of the TEC Services Committee, said: “The project will bring a quality finish to the terminal making it an attractive stopping off point for those catching the ferry as well as those seeking further information about the area. It will add to the experience of visiting Skye.”
The Council has also received £500,000 from the ERDF towards the £2,250,000 cost of upgrading lifeline roads in north-west Sutherland, Wester Ross and west Lochaber, which all suffer from poor access as a consequence of the substandard width of road and poor alignment on short sections of road which are otherwise of good quality.
This project will focus on:
* A861 Drynie Hill in West Lochaber
* A890 Strathcarron- Balnacra (Coulags), Wester Ross; and
* A838 North Approach Laxford Bridge, N-W Sutherland
Work is due to start in September of this year and last for a year.
Councillor Laing said the objective of the project is to continue the removal of localised road bottlenecks in these remote and peripheral parts of the west Highlands. He said: “It will remove the barrier for freight and goods movement which constrains transport and has adverse impact on local business competitiveness and community accessibility. Journey times will be more reliable and access to local service centres for essential services will be improved.”
The third grant from the ERDF focuses on a Green Travel project. £224,000 has been awarded to the Council’s plan to implement improvements to core walking/cycling routes. This three-year project, due to get under way in April this year, will encourage local residents and visitors alike to walk and cycle for recreation, commuting and business. The routes under consideration will link communities, businesses and tourism attractions with safe, well marked active travel trails suitable for all ages. The Council’s partners - HiTrans, Sustrans and the Inverness Common Good Fund - have contributed an additional £185,000 to ensure the success of the project.
-ends-
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
£500,000 worth of European Regional Development Funding will help the £2 million enhancement of the assembly area of the Sconser Ferry Terminal in Skye and provide much-needed additional parking spaces for cars, buses and commercial vehicles.
The project, which is due to start in October of this year and last for a year, will bring the waiting area for the ferry into the 21st century and provide a modern approach to this, the only gateway to Raasay.
Councillor John Laing, Chairman of the TEC Services Committee, said: “The project will bring a quality finish to the terminal making it an attractive stopping off point for those catching the ferry as well as those seeking further information about the area. It will add to the experience of visiting Skye.”
The Council has also received £500,000 from the ERDF towards the £2,250,000 cost of upgrading lifeline roads in north-west Sutherland, Wester Ross and west Lochaber, which all suffer from poor access as a consequence of the substandard width of road and poor alignment on short sections of road which are otherwise of good quality.
This project will focus on:
* A861 Drynie Hill in West Lochaber
* A890 Strathcarron- Balnacra (Coulags), Wester Ross; and
* A838 North Approach Laxford Bridge, N-W Sutherland
Work is due to start in September of this year and last for a year.
Councillor Laing said the objective of the project is to continue the removal of localised road bottlenecks in these remote and peripheral parts of the west Highlands. He said: “It will remove the barrier for freight and goods movement which constrains transport and has adverse impact on local business competitiveness and community accessibility. Journey times will be more reliable and access to local service centres for essential services will be improved.”
The third grant from the ERDF focuses on a Green Travel project. £224,000 has been awarded to the Council’s plan to implement improvements to core walking/cycling routes. This three-year project, due to get under way in April this year, will encourage local residents and visitors alike to walk and cycle for recreation, commuting and business. The routes under consideration will link communities, businesses and tourism attractions with safe, well marked active travel trails suitable for all ages. The Council’s partners - HiTrans, Sustrans and the Inverness Common Good Fund - have contributed an additional £185,000 to ensure the success of the project.
-ends-
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www.highland.gov.uk
Press Release: New extended way of paying Council bills
Monday 24 January 2011: Highland householders are being advised by The Highland Council of new and extended ways of paying their Council Tax, rent and other Council bills. The new payment system takes effect from 1 April – the start of the new financial year.
From then, the public will be able to pay by cash or cheque at any Post Office and more than 300 PayPoints and Payzones throughout the Highlands.
From 1 April, the public will not be able to pay by cash or cheque at a Council Service Point, although they will continue to be able to pay by debit or credit card.
As a result of the new arrangements, the HQ cash office on Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, is closing permanently on 31 March.
Already 67,400 people pay their Council Tax by direct debit, so they will not be affected by the change.
The Council is following a number of other Councils throughout the United Kingdom in modernising the way it accepts payments from the public to ensure it does so in the most efficient and effective way.
Leaflets advising the public of the changes will be included in the 116,500 Council Tax demand notices which will arrive on doorsteps ahead of the implementation date. The change will also be prominently featured on the Council’s web site and posters are being displayed in public offices.
Councillor Carolyn Wilson, Chairman of the Council’s Resources Committee, said: “The change to the way we receive payments is aimed at providing a service that is more efficient but fair to everyone. The new extended service will give the public a greater choice of where to pay and more flexibility about when to make payments. It is also cheaper to collect payments at the new outlets and this keeps our administration costs down.
“There will be outlets right across the Highlands, making it more convenient for many customers to make payment locally. There will be longer opening hours at many of the new outlets.
“The additional Council business will help post offices that are important to so many communities and help sustain small businesses, such as local convenience stores and garages.”
The public can also pay by Direct Debit – the easiest way to pay bills or by debit or credit card at any Service Point; online via the internet at www.highland.gov.uk
-ends-
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www: highland.gov.uk
From then, the public will be able to pay by cash or cheque at any Post Office and more than 300 PayPoints and Payzones throughout the Highlands.
From 1 April, the public will not be able to pay by cash or cheque at a Council Service Point, although they will continue to be able to pay by debit or credit card.
As a result of the new arrangements, the HQ cash office on Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, is closing permanently on 31 March.
Already 67,400 people pay their Council Tax by direct debit, so they will not be affected by the change.
The Council is following a number of other Councils throughout the United Kingdom in modernising the way it accepts payments from the public to ensure it does so in the most efficient and effective way.
Leaflets advising the public of the changes will be included in the 116,500 Council Tax demand notices which will arrive on doorsteps ahead of the implementation date. The change will also be prominently featured on the Council’s web site and posters are being displayed in public offices.
Councillor Carolyn Wilson, Chairman of the Council’s Resources Committee, said: “The change to the way we receive payments is aimed at providing a service that is more efficient but fair to everyone. The new extended service will give the public a greater choice of where to pay and more flexibility about when to make payments. It is also cheaper to collect payments at the new outlets and this keeps our administration costs down.
“There will be outlets right across the Highlands, making it more convenient for many customers to make payment locally. There will be longer opening hours at many of the new outlets.
“The additional Council business will help post offices that are important to so many communities and help sustain small businesses, such as local convenience stores and garages.”
The public can also pay by Direct Debit – the easiest way to pay bills or by debit or credit card at any Service Point; online via the internet at www.highland.gov.uk
-ends-
The Highland Council
Glenurquhart Road Inverness IV3 5NX
Tel: 01463 702022 Fax: 01463 702025
www: highland.gov.uk
Garve and District Community Council - Agenda: 1 February 2011
Garve and District Community Council
Meeting Tuesday 1 February 2011
Garve Village Hall - 6.30pm
AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. Approve the minutes of the last meeting
3. Matters arising from the last minutes
4. Treasurers Report
5. Correspondence received
6. AOB from CC members
7. AOB from members of the public
8. Planning applications
9. Licensing applications
10. Community Benefit Fund
11. Date of next meeting
Meeting Tuesday 1 February 2011
Garve Village Hall - 6.30pm
AGENDA
1. Apologies
2. Approve the minutes of the last meeting
3. Matters arising from the last minutes
4. Treasurers Report
5. Correspondence received
6. AOB from CC members
7. AOB from members of the public
8. Planning applications
9. Licensing applications
10. Community Benefit Fund
11. Date of next meeting
Garve & District Community Council - Draft Minutes: 11 January 2011
Draft Minutes of Garve & District Community Council meeting held
11th Jan 2011 in Achnasheen Village Hall
PRESENT: Kenny MacLean, Jean Hollingdale, Jean Bailey, Jennifer Haslam, Pam Morrison, Ruari Matheson, Jimmy Ruggles-Brise, Jock Logie, Alex Mackenzie, Sue Tarr, Bob Moir, Steve Jones; Cllr Jean Urquhart; Robbie Bain; Val MacIver; 16 members of public.
The Chairman opened the meeting at 7.25pm following the public meeting regarding the future of the News & Views and wished everyone a Happy New Year. He had received a request to read out a letter received from Mr MacPhail which had not been read out at the previous meeting. He summarized the sequence of events that had led to this letter, and read out the letter. Steve Jones then read out the letter that he had sent to Mr MacPhail in reply. Jennifer Haslam stated that the CC should support Steve Jones.
The Chairman then raised an email which Steve Jones had received from Dave Mudie, Planning Officer, which the Chairman had received via Robbie Bain enquiring about G&DCC comments on Corriemoillie Windfarm Planning Application. Agreed that the CC reply was that they had no comments on the application a had been agreed at the Special meeting on 19th Oct 2010.
APOLOGIES: Cllr Audrey Sinclair.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: for 20th December2010 meeting (query from Pam Morrison about BMX magazine comment – all agreed it should remain unchanged) proposed by Ruari Matheson and seconded by Bob Moir.
The Chairman then read out an item found in CC files which listed questions about “GM”, his business, family and windfarm interests. Agreed that it shouldn’t remain in files.
MATTERS ARISING:
Grit Bins: Concerns that a particular grit bin in Achnasheen had a lot of salt removed by a single resident, possibly leaving others with not enough. The Chairman will deal with this issue.
Blue Bins: Jock Logie had received query about why the people living on the Achnasheen road did not have blue bins. Secretary to find out when we will get blue bins.
Scottish Water: Reply received about query about Garve mains supply. They confirmed possibility of a mains pipeline from Assynt to Garve – more information will be available by Feb. Willing to come to a CC meeting. Denied that Garve water was below standard.
Winter Roads Maintenance: Reply received from Ian Hay. The gritter drivers have discretion on how to use the snow blades and spreading of salt, according to road conditions. Comments were made that the salt/grit mix being used now was not so effective; shouldn’t the Highland Council be getting a better share of Scottish salt resources?
Level Crossing: Jock Logie raised issue of dangers of Garve Level Crossing – very difficult to see red lights when the sun is low at this time of year. Dave Thompson MSP is leading a campaign on level crossing safety. Secretary to write to the MSP for an update.
Police issues: a speed camera vehicle has been seen up and down the Garve/Achnasheen road this last week.
Slow signs: Cllr. Urquhart has sent an email to Ian Hay Tec services, on going.
CC Members’ liability: Ongoing.
TREASURER’S REPORT: Balances as follows - Main Account £1267.80; News and Views Account £1364.63; Senior Citizen’s Account £615.72; War Memorial Account £82.38.
NEWS AND VIEWS: Following the public meeting held earlier this evening by the new AGNV Management Committee to endorse their constitution, CC agreed to wish AGNV well. The Management Committee had requested a meeting with CC representatives. This would go ahead on Wed 12th Jan 2011 with Jean Hollingdale, Jean Bailey, Sue Tarr and Alex Mackenzie attending on behalf of CC. Jean Bailey proposed that CC hand over ownership of the printer and News and Views account as soon as possible; Jennifer Haslam seconded and all agreed.
Jackie West (editor) stated that Management Committee would continue to work hard and give the community the newsletter that they want. ALL FUTURE INQUIRIES REGARDING THE NEWS & VIEWS SHOULD BE MADE TO THE AGNV MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND NOT THE G&DCC.
CORRESPONDENCE: Christmas card from John Farquhar Munro MSP; SEPA magazine; Association Scottish Community Councils; Highland Small Communities Housing Trust re representative from G&DCC; Sea Energy Consultation on Moray Firth wind energy (not meant for us). E mails: Moira Harris re 12th Jan meeting with G&DCC; Scottish Water reply; Ian Hay Tec services reply; SCF re public meeting; Platform PR re public meeting; Jackie West to Jean Bailey Treasurer.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
TranServ – Bob Moir highlighted that a number of jobs that we requested had not yet been done (trimming of beech trees at Station Road and Killin, clearing of branches at Rogie and now also at Hazelbrae, water lying on the road at Hazelbrae and at the Check Rail brae, and the low verges between Killin and Rogie.) Secretary to write to TranServ for an update.
Donation of paper – The Chairman thanked Jennifer Haslam for her donation as the CC members receive a lot of paperwork from the Secretary.
Resignation – Jimmy Ruggles-Brise is moving out of G&DCC area by the end of January so will no longer be a CC member. He wished the CC luck, saying it had a lot of important things to decide. The Chairman thanked him and wished him well for the future.
Cllr Jean Urquhart left the meeting.
PLANNING MATTERS: No planning applications this month.
The Chairman had received a verbal request from Simon Bedwell for help with planning applications for two houses at Achnaclerach. Some details of the applications have been refused. Agreed that while the CC has sympathy for the situation it is not able to get involved.
LICENSING MATTERS: No Licensing applications this month.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUNDS:
A Public Meeting has been organised for 24th Jan 2011 7pm in Garve Village Hall. Bob Cameron (Highland Council) will chair the meeting and representatives from Eneco (Lochluichart Windfarm), E-on (Corriemoillie Windfarm), Infinergy (Lochluichart Extension), and Scottish Communities Foundation will attend. The public will get the opportunity to ask questions about fund management, with a view to the CC taking a formal decision at the next CC meeting. An agreement about community benefit fund management can then be signed. The Chairman suggested that CC distribute a flier to all households advertising the meeting and asked for volunteers from members to deliver to their areas. All agreed.
Jennifer Haslam suggested we have a break in the middle with tea/coffee allowing people to discuss things; agreed that was a good idea and Penny Moir volunteered to help.
The Chairman asked Robbie Bain some queries about “Pan Highland Fund” where Highland Council gets a large share of any Community Benefit Fund arrangements. The HC is due to decide on this in Feb. Robbie Bain stated this won’t apply to agreements currently in negotiation (Eneco and E-on). The Lochluichart Eneco agreement can’t be signed until a means of management is in place. Signatories would be HC, Lochluichart Estate and Eneco although if SCF are going to manage the fund then they may be more appropriate as a signatory instead of HC. The meeting of 24th Jan will give us the means to move on to next stage. The negotiations with E-on are ongoing; a decision about fund management will be helpful.
Val MacIver confirmed that E-on would be very keen to use SCF as managers – advantages are that they protect the money, they protect the community, and E-on will pay SCF the management fees.
Chairman closed the meeting at 8.55pm
DATE OF NEXT MEETING: 1st Feb 2011 6.30pm Garve Village Hall.
11th Jan 2011 in Achnasheen Village Hall
PRESENT: Kenny MacLean, Jean Hollingdale, Jean Bailey, Jennifer Haslam, Pam Morrison, Ruari Matheson, Jimmy Ruggles-Brise, Jock Logie, Alex Mackenzie, Sue Tarr, Bob Moir, Steve Jones; Cllr Jean Urquhart; Robbie Bain; Val MacIver; 16 members of public.
The Chairman opened the meeting at 7.25pm following the public meeting regarding the future of the News & Views and wished everyone a Happy New Year. He had received a request to read out a letter received from Mr MacPhail which had not been read out at the previous meeting. He summarized the sequence of events that had led to this letter, and read out the letter. Steve Jones then read out the letter that he had sent to Mr MacPhail in reply. Jennifer Haslam stated that the CC should support Steve Jones.
The Chairman then raised an email which Steve Jones had received from Dave Mudie, Planning Officer, which the Chairman had received via Robbie Bain enquiring about G&DCC comments on Corriemoillie Windfarm Planning Application. Agreed that the CC reply was that they had no comments on the application a had been agreed at the Special meeting on 19th Oct 2010.
APOLOGIES: Cllr Audrey Sinclair.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: for 20th December2010 meeting (query from Pam Morrison about BMX magazine comment – all agreed it should remain unchanged) proposed by Ruari Matheson and seconded by Bob Moir.
The Chairman then read out an item found in CC files which listed questions about “GM”, his business, family and windfarm interests. Agreed that it shouldn’t remain in files.
MATTERS ARISING:
Grit Bins: Concerns that a particular grit bin in Achnasheen had a lot of salt removed by a single resident, possibly leaving others with not enough. The Chairman will deal with this issue.
Blue Bins: Jock Logie had received query about why the people living on the Achnasheen road did not have blue bins. Secretary to find out when we will get blue bins.
Scottish Water: Reply received about query about Garve mains supply. They confirmed possibility of a mains pipeline from Assynt to Garve – more information will be available by Feb. Willing to come to a CC meeting. Denied that Garve water was below standard.
Winter Roads Maintenance: Reply received from Ian Hay. The gritter drivers have discretion on how to use the snow blades and spreading of salt, according to road conditions. Comments were made that the salt/grit mix being used now was not so effective; shouldn’t the Highland Council be getting a better share of Scottish salt resources?
Level Crossing: Jock Logie raised issue of dangers of Garve Level Crossing – very difficult to see red lights when the sun is low at this time of year. Dave Thompson MSP is leading a campaign on level crossing safety. Secretary to write to the MSP for an update.
Police issues: a speed camera vehicle has been seen up and down the Garve/Achnasheen road this last week.
Slow signs: Cllr. Urquhart has sent an email to Ian Hay Tec services, on going.
CC Members’ liability: Ongoing.
TREASURER’S REPORT: Balances as follows - Main Account £1267.80; News and Views Account £1364.63; Senior Citizen’s Account £615.72; War Memorial Account £82.38.
NEWS AND VIEWS: Following the public meeting held earlier this evening by the new AGNV Management Committee to endorse their constitution, CC agreed to wish AGNV well. The Management Committee had requested a meeting with CC representatives. This would go ahead on Wed 12th Jan 2011 with Jean Hollingdale, Jean Bailey, Sue Tarr and Alex Mackenzie attending on behalf of CC. Jean Bailey proposed that CC hand over ownership of the printer and News and Views account as soon as possible; Jennifer Haslam seconded and all agreed.
Jackie West (editor) stated that Management Committee would continue to work hard and give the community the newsletter that they want. ALL FUTURE INQUIRIES REGARDING THE NEWS & VIEWS SHOULD BE MADE TO THE AGNV MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE AND NOT THE G&DCC.
CORRESPONDENCE: Christmas card from John Farquhar Munro MSP; SEPA magazine; Association Scottish Community Councils; Highland Small Communities Housing Trust re representative from G&DCC; Sea Energy Consultation on Moray Firth wind energy (not meant for us). E mails: Moira Harris re 12th Jan meeting with G&DCC; Scottish Water reply; Ian Hay Tec services reply; SCF re public meeting; Platform PR re public meeting; Jackie West to Jean Bailey Treasurer.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
TranServ – Bob Moir highlighted that a number of jobs that we requested had not yet been done (trimming of beech trees at Station Road and Killin, clearing of branches at Rogie and now also at Hazelbrae, water lying on the road at Hazelbrae and at the Check Rail brae, and the low verges between Killin and Rogie.) Secretary to write to TranServ for an update.
Donation of paper – The Chairman thanked Jennifer Haslam for her donation as the CC members receive a lot of paperwork from the Secretary.
Resignation – Jimmy Ruggles-Brise is moving out of G&DCC area by the end of January so will no longer be a CC member. He wished the CC luck, saying it had a lot of important things to decide. The Chairman thanked him and wished him well for the future.
Cllr Jean Urquhart left the meeting.
PLANNING MATTERS: No planning applications this month.
The Chairman had received a verbal request from Simon Bedwell for help with planning applications for two houses at Achnaclerach. Some details of the applications have been refused. Agreed that while the CC has sympathy for the situation it is not able to get involved.
LICENSING MATTERS: No Licensing applications this month.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUNDS:
A Public Meeting has been organised for 24th Jan 2011 7pm in Garve Village Hall. Bob Cameron (Highland Council) will chair the meeting and representatives from Eneco (Lochluichart Windfarm), E-on (Corriemoillie Windfarm), Infinergy (Lochluichart Extension), and Scottish Communities Foundation will attend. The public will get the opportunity to ask questions about fund management, with a view to the CC taking a formal decision at the next CC meeting. An agreement about community benefit fund management can then be signed. The Chairman suggested that CC distribute a flier to all households advertising the meeting and asked for volunteers from members to deliver to their areas. All agreed.
Jennifer Haslam suggested we have a break in the middle with tea/coffee allowing people to discuss things; agreed that was a good idea and Penny Moir volunteered to help.
The Chairman asked Robbie Bain some queries about “Pan Highland Fund” where Highland Council gets a large share of any Community Benefit Fund arrangements. The HC is due to decide on this in Feb. Robbie Bain stated this won’t apply to agreements currently in negotiation (Eneco and E-on). The Lochluichart Eneco agreement can’t be signed until a means of management is in place. Signatories would be HC, Lochluichart Estate and Eneco although if SCF are going to manage the fund then they may be more appropriate as a signatory instead of HC. The meeting of 24th Jan will give us the means to move on to next stage. The negotiations with E-on are ongoing; a decision about fund management will be helpful.
Val MacIver confirmed that E-on would be very keen to use SCF as managers – advantages are that they protect the money, they protect the community, and E-on will pay SCF the management fees.
Chairman closed the meeting at 8.55pm
DATE OF NEXT MEETING: 1st Feb 2011 6.30pm Garve Village Hall.
Achnasheen and Garve News and Views Management Committee
Minutes of meeting held on the 13th December 2010, 7.00pm, Achnasheen Village Hall
Present: Harry Grainge, Helen Grainge, Laura Gauna, Moira Harris, Barry Peters, Debbie Peters, Jackie West. Apologies: Jim Curry, Gill Ross, Michelle Stevenson
Minutes of previous meeting, 9th November 2010 approved, proposed Harry G, seconded JW.
Letters
Correspondence from HOE to Jean Bailey regarding invoice for the new printer. Forwarded by Jean Bailey to JW
Editorial
There are a few articles left over from the Christmas edition which can be used for February edition.
Advertising
One approach from a new advertiser for advertising space in the newsletter next year.
Following an approach from Lochcarron Garage, AGNV can now be bought online for 65 pence from lochcarron.com.
JW has set up a feedburner on the AGNV website. By providing an email address, subscribers receive free extracts from the AGNV website.
AGNV committee to encourage reciprocal website links.
Distribution
The one volunteer position has now been filled.
Production
Contin newsletter has found a cheaper quote and will not be requiring AGNV services.
ACTION JW to contact Peter Burrows-Smith regarding a possible re-negotiation of our printing costs with HOE.
Fund raising
In 2010, each newsletter sold had the potential of contributing 5p to the Over 60's Christmas party. We gave sales outlets the option of keeping the 5p for themselves (as a thank you) or donating it to the 'fund'. Some did take the 5ps whilst others paid the full price, thereby contributing. During the year some outlets reduced or stopped selling, and some then resumed with lesser quantities. On average 80 newsletters were sold, and should have attracted a 5p contribution. Working on this premise, over 6 issues the total is £24 (regardless of whether a contribution was made or not). Agreed that figure rounded up to £30.00.
Prior to the Over 60s Christmas Dinner (8th Dec), JW asked Jean Bailey to transfer the £30.00 to the Senior Citizens’ fund, as agreed. At a chance meeting at the Garve Christmas Fair (11th Dec) Jean Bailey told JW that she did not have the authority to do this and it would have to be agreed at the next CC meeting in January 2011.
ACTION JW to email GDCC to add this item to their Agenda so that the money can be transferred.
Post-meeting action. Subsequently, JW was informed by CC Chairman that instruction could not be taken from JW and a request for the money transfer would have to be done ‘officially’ by the secretary, MH. MH followed up immediately with a written request to the CC but CC felt the transfer had to be approved at the next CC meeting. Thankfully this was done at the postponed Dec 20th CC meeting and didn’t have to wait until January, which would have been a delay of 2 months from the initial request. However, this delay in process meant the contribution, which could have paid for 2 meals, could not be made in time for the 2010 party.
AOB
AGREED AGNV needs to draw up a business plan in the New Year in order to look at issues which include production costs, distribution, advertising – new and costs, fund raising.
Constitution – Robbie Bain has confirmed to the CC that either he or Jean Urquhart will chair the public meeting on Tuesday 11th January, 6.30 – 7.00pm regarding public endorsement of the AGNV constitution. RB made a few minor comments on the constitution, mainly semantics. MH has requested further input regarding constitution and running of the public meeting but has heard nothing to date.
MH and JW were unable to visit Gairloch and District Times because of the bad weather. MH has asked for another time plus a copy of the GDT constitution. Awaiting reply.
ACTION: MH to contact Robbie Bain, Jean Urquhart and Bob Cameron re set up of public meeting and to invite whoever is the Chair to attend at 6.00pm on the 11th January.
ACTION: Helen Grainge to invite a representative from RVA to attend the public meeting and to give them a copy of the constitution.
Date of next meetings: AGNV Committee Meeting, 11th January 2011, 6.00pm – 6.30pm.
AGNV Public Meeting, 11th January 2011, 6.30pm – 7.00pm.
Both meetings will be in Achnasheen Village Hall.
Meeting closed at 8.00pm.
Post-meeting action. CC members have agreed to meet with AGNV members after the public meeting, on Wednesday 12th January 2011, 2.00 pm, Achnasheen Village Hall, re next stage of newsletter. This meeting may be unnecessary If all business regarding the independence of the AGNV is completed at the CC meeting on the 11th January.
Present: Harry Grainge, Helen Grainge, Laura Gauna, Moira Harris, Barry Peters, Debbie Peters, Jackie West. Apologies: Jim Curry, Gill Ross, Michelle Stevenson
Minutes of previous meeting, 9th November 2010 approved, proposed Harry G, seconded JW.
Letters
Correspondence from HOE to Jean Bailey regarding invoice for the new printer. Forwarded by Jean Bailey to JW
Editorial
There are a few articles left over from the Christmas edition which can be used for February edition.
Advertising
One approach from a new advertiser for advertising space in the newsletter next year.
Following an approach from Lochcarron Garage, AGNV can now be bought online for 65 pence from lochcarron.com.
JW has set up a feedburner on the AGNV website. By providing an email address, subscribers receive free extracts from the AGNV website.
AGNV committee to encourage reciprocal website links.
Distribution
The one volunteer position has now been filled.
Production
Contin newsletter has found a cheaper quote and will not be requiring AGNV services.
ACTION JW to contact Peter Burrows-Smith regarding a possible re-negotiation of our printing costs with HOE.
Fund raising
In 2010, each newsletter sold had the potential of contributing 5p to the Over 60's Christmas party. We gave sales outlets the option of keeping the 5p for themselves (as a thank you) or donating it to the 'fund'. Some did take the 5ps whilst others paid the full price, thereby contributing. During the year some outlets reduced or stopped selling, and some then resumed with lesser quantities. On average 80 newsletters were sold, and should have attracted a 5p contribution. Working on this premise, over 6 issues the total is £24 (regardless of whether a contribution was made or not). Agreed that figure rounded up to £30.00.
Prior to the Over 60s Christmas Dinner (8th Dec), JW asked Jean Bailey to transfer the £30.00 to the Senior Citizens’ fund, as agreed. At a chance meeting at the Garve Christmas Fair (11th Dec) Jean Bailey told JW that she did not have the authority to do this and it would have to be agreed at the next CC meeting in January 2011.
ACTION JW to email GDCC to add this item to their Agenda so that the money can be transferred.
Post-meeting action. Subsequently, JW was informed by CC Chairman that instruction could not be taken from JW and a request for the money transfer would have to be done ‘officially’ by the secretary, MH. MH followed up immediately with a written request to the CC but CC felt the transfer had to be approved at the next CC meeting. Thankfully this was done at the postponed Dec 20th CC meeting and didn’t have to wait until January, which would have been a delay of 2 months from the initial request. However, this delay in process meant the contribution, which could have paid for 2 meals, could not be made in time for the 2010 party.
AOB
AGREED AGNV needs to draw up a business plan in the New Year in order to look at issues which include production costs, distribution, advertising – new and costs, fund raising.
Constitution – Robbie Bain has confirmed to the CC that either he or Jean Urquhart will chair the public meeting on Tuesday 11th January, 6.30 – 7.00pm regarding public endorsement of the AGNV constitution. RB made a few minor comments on the constitution, mainly semantics. MH has requested further input regarding constitution and running of the public meeting but has heard nothing to date.
MH and JW were unable to visit Gairloch and District Times because of the bad weather. MH has asked for another time plus a copy of the GDT constitution. Awaiting reply.
ACTION: MH to contact Robbie Bain, Jean Urquhart and Bob Cameron re set up of public meeting and to invite whoever is the Chair to attend at 6.00pm on the 11th January.
ACTION: Helen Grainge to invite a representative from RVA to attend the public meeting and to give them a copy of the constitution.
Date of next meetings: AGNV Committee Meeting, 11th January 2011, 6.00pm – 6.30pm.
AGNV Public Meeting, 11th January 2011, 6.30pm – 7.00pm.
Both meetings will be in Achnasheen Village Hall.
Meeting closed at 8.00pm.
Post-meeting action. CC members have agreed to meet with AGNV members after the public meeting, on Wednesday 12th January 2011, 2.00 pm, Achnasheen Village Hall, re next stage of newsletter. This meeting may be unnecessary If all business regarding the independence of the AGNV is completed at the CC meeting on the 11th January.
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