The following were matters arising from previous meetings:
FLi contract – future website developments still under discussion
Simon Olorenshaw continuing to collect data for the SWOC exercise
Risk management – arrangements for implementing the audit still to be agreed
Joint meeting with the Community Trust to be arranged when their new CEO is in post
Junior Blues relaunch progressing
Family zone – a paper had been produced outlining a proposal for a family zone in the West Stand, it was agreed that this should be supported but more information was needed relating to pricing.
Finance – the finance report included an update on the year end accounts which still had to be finalised and a proposed budget for 2016/2017, the latter had to be submitted to the Conference and remained at £330k.
Operations board – since the last meeting the main focus for the Operations board had related to the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer. Also noted that the report had been received from ‘Level Playing Field’ regarding disabled facilities, this was now being considered along with other options.
Commercial – Jonny Hughes was undertaking a major review of the content of the programme and it was agreed that the price should be increased to £3 which was in line with the charge made by other clubs. There will be a single programme covering the friendly games. It was agreed that improved external signage was needed as there is currently no sign over the main entrance.
Youth Academy – the Youth Team will be entering the Cheshire Youth Cup this season and recruitment of players and coaching staff is in progress.
CFU – Marion Needham reported that the Financial Conduct Authority had still not accepted the wording submitted in relation to the proposal to amend the constitution and this will need to be considered further. Questions for the Big City Survey for 2016 need to be finalised with the aim being to issue it to members in July. CFU memberships were being renewed, many as season tickets were purchased and a reminder will be sent to those who have not renewed shortly. A schedule of dates for CFU meetings for the remainder of 2016 will be agreed at the next board meeting.
Volunteer groups – The following specific issues were noted:
Office and shop – another Sunday opening was planned for selling season tickets and possibly an evening
Match day and hospitality – arrangements are on track relating to booking arrangements for the Legends Lounge.
Media group – work is in progress to develop closer links with a local radio station.
Maintenance team – some major items would need to be addressed e.g. replacement of stadium exit gates, but this will only be possible if funding was available. Other routine work was progressing including some painting and cleaning and plans were in place to undertake work on the car park to clear the drainage grid that had flooded recently.
Fundraising – there was a discussion about a possible event in September which could be linked to a community day, further information to be provided at the next board meeting.
Any other business – noted that Non League Day was planned for 3rd September 2016 and agreed that this should be promoted.