Madam, Recent letters in the Ross Gazette have inferred that the Town Council is not following its own policies in deciding to offer financial support to a local club.
First, The Local Government Act 1972, S.137 and S.145, permits the Town Council to donate money to local organisations where it considers there is a direct benefit to the area or part of the area, or to some or all of the inhabitants. The Finance Committee has a remit that allows it to consider and award grants up to £1,000; many local organisations have benefited from this process, including the Country and Western Festival, both the summer and Christmas carnivals and the Sea Cadets. Anything greater than £1,000 is referred to Full Council for discussion by all Town Councillors following which an informed decision, based on the information available, is taken to offer financial support, or not.
In recent years the Town Council has awarded grants greater than £1,000 to the football, rugby and cricket clubs, Jamstand, Ross Live, and the bandstand concerts.
Secondly, might I suggest that concerned residents contact the Town Council directly if they have questions to ask.
There are several ways to acquire information on, or make comments about, any of the activities of the Town Council: attend the Annual Town Meeting (held in April); Full Council meetings (second Monday in each month); write or email the Clerk or the Mayor or any councillor.
The Town Council's website at http://www.rosstc-herefordshire.gov.uk">www.rosstc-herefordshire.gov.uk provides information including contact details, policies, agenda, minutes and a contact form.
Mrs D Mason,
Town Clerk