Coatesville community leads the way

Publish Date : 11 Oct 2017
Coatesvillecommunityleadstheway

Coatesville Settlers Hall is the first hall in Rodney to operate under the new community-led incorporation model.

Coatesville Settlers Hall Committee Chairman Alan Curtis says, “Our hall has always been a vital part of the community and all credit to the council for allowing us to make it so. Now with the new management structure we really feel it gives the community a sense of belonging.”

The hall’s advisory group has obtained incorporation status, which means the group is responsible for public liability insurance, all bookings, setting hire fees, minor maintenance and cleaning while retaining hall revenue to offset operating costs.

The council is responsible for all capital expenditure and major maintenance. This option gives a community the opportunity to govern, manage and operate the hall.

The local board received feedback from the community that locals wanted different options for managing halls and in response three different options were set up.

Rodney Local Board Parks and Recreation Committee Chairperson Brent Bailey says the local board is keen to support communities who want to manage and operate their local hall themselves.

“It’s often a much better result when a community decides what is best for their hall,” he says.

If you’re interested in finding out more about managing and operating your local hall, contact Rural Hall Advisor Jo Heaven at jo.heaven@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

If you’re looking for a location for a function or an event in Rodney, there are 23 council-owned community halls available for regular use or to hire. Search ‘community venues’ at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to find and book a venue.

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