Building and Grounds Update - Archived
Interior Updates
We are beautifying our building. Impact Painting, the company that painted the exterior of our building last year, will soon be working inside. Their task is to paint the peeling ceilings in both the kitchen and foyer. They are planning to complete this project within the next week or so, taking advantage of the bad weather to get the work done efficiently.
Exterior Landscaping Enhancements
At last week’s town hall, we discussed the landscaping plans for the exterior of our building. The Schefflera hedge along the Pali Highway will be cut down and, over the next year, replaced with native plants. Suggestions for replacements include a’ali’i, dwarf hau, and ulei. We are beginning this transition by testing a small a’ali’i plant in the gap area along the highway.
Reimagining the Office Garden Area
Additionally, there is a need for a new vision for the small garden area outside the office. About three or four years ago, this area was originally designated as a playground for toddlers. Artificial turf was installed, and volunteers set up chain link posts around the perimeter, supporting wood-framed panels with hog wire for a variety of plants. Since the original volunteers are no longer with us and the community has changed, church members and building residents have erected a temporary fence and planted vegetables as well as common herbs, such as green onions and sage. The area has since fallen into disuse; while some herbs are well tended, the perimeter fencing is now covered with dead vines and a mix of plants.
Maintenance Challenges and Future Ideas
While gardens can be beautiful, their upkeep is essential. Maintenance has been an ongoing challenge for this area. Based on our history, we need to consider a solution that is very low-maintenance.
Some ideas include installing chain link top and bottom rails and planting something permanent along the perimeter. The removal of a mock-orange hedge made space for this area. Another suggestion is to use low white vinyl fencing, similar to what is used in the trash area out back, or low white vinyl picket fencing. The artificial turf is now starting to sprout weeds! This small garden area presents an opportunity for volunteers who are committed to the transformational work of the Hope for Us congregational work. If you are interested in contributing and helping to synthesize and coalesce these visions, please step forward!
Reverend Debora gave me high praise for the work that I have done on the church building. However, I feel it would be remiss not to include Pierre Kleiber on the list of those who have helped. Not only well educated but also highly skilled. He has been there for just about every project and shown skills that I lack in making our electronic coded door work. I just installed it. He got it working. He has also been indispensable in keeping the skylights in the attic working.