Old Park Farm Garden Holders Association

Present: Jane Bowden, John Stooke, David Kirkham, Mark Robinson, Steve Williams Charles Dewa

Apologies: None

Minutes from 4th April (mini meeting) 2020: These were accepted. It was noted that there is no quorum stated in the constitution so this meeting of the officers was quorate.

Water: There has been a very large increase in the amount of water used. From 19.4. to 23.5 255 m cu were used costing £383. It seems that someone has left a tap flowing overnight. We have collected more than the usual water bill so should be ok to pay it, but it was agreed to monitor the situation and remind people about good water use.

Treasurer: Generally finances are ok. Mark has increased the water bill provision to £2000 given the usage. He proposed a £200 disbursement to the new Acting Chair to cover incidental costs but it was agreed to leave this till we can hold an AGM. (DK)

There is some concern that the stock in the ‘shop’ is slow moving although it shouldn’t run out of date and may well be sold once we can open the shop properly. Jane and John agreed to look at the possibility of opening for a one off sale in the near future.

Secretary: Dave outlined the options regarding the new lease (documents previously circulated). There are 3 possible options:

1. Stay on our current lease until 2025 when it runs out and accept the proposed link to Direct let associations which would mean a massive increase in rent
2. Accept the new lease by September
3. Reject the lease and ask to become a Direct let association.

It seems unlikely the /council would accept option 3. Option 1 will involve a massive increase in costs to tenants. Option 2 will involve a large increase in administration which is going to be difficult to carry. John and Jane agreed to do some work on the lease and to produce a consultation document to go to tenants. They also agreed to contact Mr Dymond at the Council to ask for a postponement of the September date for both the rent review and the new lease decision, given the number of new people running the Association. Dave had sent an e mail to the secretary of Whitemoor Allotments asking her to share experiences of the two allotment sites. He had also requested legal advice from the NAS (National Allotment Society) on the new lease.

Other issues:

1. plot holder had been given a verbal warning by email and letter as there had been no communication and no sign of any cultivation or maintenance having taken place.
2. We need to appoint new Trustees in order for the lease to be signed. Dave would find out about insurance for Trustees from the NAS.
3. It was suggested that Vanessa might be able to find out what benefits the NAS offer to tenants and to advertise these. DK to check with her.