Review of funding policies to assist community groups

Auckland Council is reviewing policies covering support of community groups through funding, subsidised rentals, and the leasing of council-owned buildings.

“The aim is to provide common arrangements across the region that are fair and transparent,” said the chair of the Regional Development and Operations Committee, Councillor Ann Hartley.

“Currently there’s a myriad of different arrangements inherited from the seven former councils and we need to introduce some clarity and consistency.”

The review will also assist the council to better identify its assets across the region and their requirements for maintenance.

The council is exploring the introduction of standardised rentals and fees including free maintenance of buildings to ensure community groups are better able to budget for their operation.

“We’re conscious of trying to do the best for community groups with policies which are transparent and equitable,” said Councillor Hartley.

Officers will report back with recommendations to the committee prior to it setting policies before 1 July 2012.
 

• The council has inherited more than 1200 leases on or in council-owned land and buildings and about 400 are due for review or renewal.