Small Hire Charge Increase Agreed

Small Hire Charge Increase Agreed
The Community Centre Committee decided Tues February 2nd to increase the room hire charges by only 1.2%, the current rate of increase in the Retail Price Index. This should mean small increases of between 8p and 15p an hour for most users.
Ted Lush, Treasurer explained " It is always tempting when small increases are proposed to do nothing, but the danger is that, two or three years down the line, a significant increase is needed that can suddenly impact on our customers. We think this small increase will help us keep our finances healthy"
As the Committee readies itself for the hard work of the redevelopment, it took a hard look at the immediate financial future.

On the positive side;

• Income from regular bookings continues to increase
• More people are using the Centre and space for activities is at a premium
• Falling oil prices should lower the heating bill

However there are pressures on the Community Centre's income:

• The annual service charge will rise as the Committee prepares to take responsibility for a larger floor area
• The Centre will lose income from the cancellation of two Ashton Hayes theatre productions
• Possible changes to Cheshire Rural Touring Arts payment system may restrict profits from plays.

The plans for the redevelopment have been carefully and conservatively costed, and the combination of grants and reserves should be more than adequate.

However Ted says "Anyone undertaking a major building project knows that, no matter how well-planned, there is always the risk of unexpected expenses. It is essential that we keep the income stream flowing."

One issue caused much discussion. It has been noted that at a number of events where a bar is provided, a few customers bring their own alcoholic drinks. Ted explained "All our events are intended to raise funds. We have kept our bar costs very reasonable with a bottle of wine at £9, a glass at £2 and a can of beer £2. While we don't sell 'fine wine' we believe that what we sell is very drinkable. It is frustrating to see a few people bringing their own and thus depriving the Community Centre of much needed income"
The Committee would be very pleased to have some feedback on the range of drinks available and the prices charges. Please go the website www.tarvincommunitycentre.org to get in touch.
The Committee also decided that should the situation arise in the future then the individuals would be asked to desist and to buy from the bar. They agreed that this policy did not apply to children bringing sweets to the Film Night.