FC Board Meeting - September 2013

Progress on the ground featured significantly in the meeting’s proceedings and it was reported that we now have a target date for drawing down the lease in the very near future. We have been in discussions with the contractors and they are now making preparations to be ready to start work on the site as soon as the lease is signed.

Contractors have been on site dealing with a longstanding infestation of Japanese Knotweed and carrying out some essential pitchworks so that Moston Juniors can return to the site next season. The initial work on the knotweed has now been completed and the workmen reported a positive response from local residents who recognise the improvements that we are already making. There are those who remain opposed to the development and there are understandable concerns about the potential disruption that a match day may bring and we will work to ensure that any disruption is minimised.

An event was held with Moston Juniors last week at which the opportunity was also taken to keep them fully informed of the current situation and again the feedback was all positive. We recognise the disturbance that their Club has endured over the last year and more and we are committed to working closely with them to get them playing football again on the Ronald Johnson playing fields as soon as possible.

Issues surrounding social media and communications were discussed and a draft document was submitted for initial discussion. It was agreed that this document, the players Code of Conduct and Employee Handbook should be reviewed as one project to ensure that they are all consistent and avoid duplication where possible. Further work is to continue in this area.

The Club has previously considered the option of setting up a charitable organisation and following recent input from a Club member we have agreed to examine the subject once again to see if there could be benefits for the Club.

Following on from the Cooperantics governance report the board are drafting and reviewing a number of documents to improve the club’s governance function. These papers cover the duties and responsibilities of Board members and FA regulations. It is envisaged that this process will be completed in the near future with a comprehensive set of documents that will aid all board members.

The monthly Finance report was presented to the Board. It is still early in the season but we are slightly down on many budget targets so far. The situation needs careful monitoring and it is imperative that the Club must continue to manage its budget carefully and supporters and members are urged to support the Club through the gate, season tickets and Club events.

The board received a report on the transfer of Oliver Banks. The board wishes Ollie well in the furtherance of his career. Further information will be issued to co-owners in due course.