Residents at the Hope Hill meeting on July 11, 2012.

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Residents at the Hope Hill meeting on July 11, 2012.

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Residents have expressed their frustration over a number of issues including drainage, poor supply of water and the fluctuations in the fuel surcharge, but Eighth District Representative, Hon. Marlon Penn has expressed his desire to work with the residents to address the issues.

At a meeting held at the Kingdom Praise Centre at Hope Hill on July 11, 2012, Hon. Penn discussed some solutions for drainage, improvements to the shed near the old reservoir at Hope Hill, signage and having a proper functioning resource centre.

The residents pointed out that water is gone for days upon days and they are really concerned and have asked that water be switched on at least in the early morning so residents can get ready for work or school. Residents suggested that the water be supplied between 5am - 9am and in the evenings from 5pm - 8pm.

Hon. Penn said he was unaware that the water issue was so severe in the Hope Hill area and promised to speak with the Minister of Communications of Works, Hon. Mark Vanterpool on addressing the matter. He also mentioned that the Ministry of Communication and Works is looking into the problem of providing water throughout the Territory.

Speaking on drainage, Hon. Penn said that it is evident that drainage in the area needs attention and pointed out the area of Neville Smith's home coming from Belle Vue and right below the wall supporting his home. The District Representative said that the engineers at Public Works Department are working out a plan to fix this matter.

Some residents suggested that this section of the road should be just concrete, rather than putting the asphalt. Hon. Penn noted that these projects are costly, but they are on the to do list once funds are available.

Another resident mentioned that the corner just before Smith's house needs to be widened and explained that it is very difficult for two cars to pass at the same time.

In relation to the existing shed, Hon. Penn suggested a crosswalk/traffic in this area to control the speed through this area. However, residents stressed that this would not help for drivers will not slow down.

Hon. Penn also spoke of improving the shed's appearance and making the entire area a tourist historical site with the salvaging of the old reservoir and making a look out with a coin stethoscope to generate revenue back for the Government.

He expressed the view that it should be developed similar to the watch house in Fahie Hill. Residents said the development should also have a restroom as there are no public areas in the east that accommodate a tourist rest stop.

Hon. Penn went on to state that this development, coupled with the painting of the mural, would create a perfect tourist stop point. He explained that this development would create jobs for the residents, tour guides and vendors.

He also stated that the blank wall by Neville Smith is to be considered for a mural, which will depict the history behind Hope Hill and blend in with the improvements done at the shed. Hon. Penn explained this is intended to create a cultural site where locals and tourists can visit.

It was highlighted that signage is also something needed throughout the Eighth District, but Hope Hill needs one to distinguish the Hope Hill area as to where it begins and ends.

Eighth District Representative, Hon. Marlon Penn at the Hope Hill Meeting on July 11, 2012.

Photo Credit:

Eighth District Representative, Hon. Marlon Penn at the Hope Hill Meeting on July 11, 2012.

Photo Credit:

As it relates to the resource centre, Hon. Penn said that this will be opened at the District Office in Long Swamp. He stated that transportation will be provided from Hope Hill to East End and back if one needs to use any services provided. According to Hon. Penn, a smaller branch of the resource centre will be available to Hope Hill residents downstairs the Church of God Prophecy/Kingdom Praise Centre which hosts many meetings and more for the community.

Hon. Penn said that this is still something to work out with the church and the residents.

Residents also mentioned that there is no bus service to the college and Hon. Penn stated that the Government is looking into to having a proper bus system in place with a specific schedule.

Meanwhile, Residents pointed out that seniors in the community are having a hard time getting around, getting help and finding persons to take care of them.

Hon. Penn mentioned that the Social Development Department has a programme that helps persons get the training necessary to fulfill these types of jobs. He said that the Government is also looking into to a Hospice Programme for the seniors to get the right care they deserve. He stated that this is something that can be a business opportunity for the residents of the community.