Three options are now available for managing council-owned rural halls in Rodney.
The management process was developed after receiving community feedback last year on a review carried out by Rodney Local Board.
The feedback indicated that a flexible management approach for rural halls was required.
The local board called for a new hall model to be developed, with input from existing hall advisory groups.
Along with community requirements, the model has to meet health and safety requirements and be able to accountably manage public money.
New hall management structures
- Community-led incorporation: A community group obtains incorporation status and 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.
- Community partnership: An existing advisory group needs to meet the council's requirements under health and safety legislation. The council is responsible for all capital and operating expenditure and maintenance. This structure will operate by way of an agreed memorandum of understanding.
- Reserve charter: Current reserve advisory groups continue in their role. A representative from the group meets with the council on matters relating to the management, maintenance and development of the reserve, which is in accordance with the reserve management plan.
The Coatesville Community Hall will be the first hall to operate under the community-led incorporation model.
Warkworth Town Hall, opening later this year, will operate as a venue for hire while the community and local board agree on the best management model.