Joint Boards meeting 9th January 2006 at 17.00.

 

Present: Rob Doidge (RD), Frances Farley (FF), Martin Lawrence (ML), Trevor Manley (TM), David Thompson (DT), David Treharne (dt), Denise Watts (DW).

 

  1. Press statements from Alex Inglethorpe. RD had been asked to raise concerns about press statements attributed to the Manager, specifically in the 'Express and Echo" concerning repeated references to the reduction of the playing budget. FF informed those present that Alex had told her that he referred to the cuts in order to make sure that the fans did not have unrealistic expectations. FF contended that some press sources repeatedly quoted "old" comments or quoted comments out of context and that Alex had no control over this. There was a lengthy discussion of the topic.
  2. Merchandising. RD asked a question about merchandising opportunities for the Trust. He expressed concern that the Trust had not been more fully consulted over the new merchandising contract, which is currently being negotiated. dt pointed out that the proposed new deal was much better than the current one, and it was hoped that it would lead to a reduction in unit costs as well as allowing the production of 'retro' kit. It was agreed that cost benefits would be achieved if Club and Trust merchandising was co-ordinate. No contract has yet been signed and the proposed new contract is currently being redrafted to cover specific concerns raised at a recent Board of Society meeting.
  3. Club staffing and staffing the St James Centre. FF talked about staffing levels in both the Club and the St James Centre, and explained that overhead costs were to be reduced to give saving of c£150,000 in a full year. It was agreed that setting up a Supporters Social Committee would help to ensure that the bar could become financially viable and remain open seven days a week. There was lengthy discussion of this topic in which all present agreed that in order to take the club forward and to achieve our aims of league football, prudent and careful management of the Club's finances is essential.

 

 

Meeting ended 18.20

 

Next meeting 6th February 2006 at 17.00