1 – Apologies for Absence
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr J Burrell
Relevant Legislation: Local Government Act 1972, s 85.
2 – Disclosure of Pecuniary Interests
There were no declarations of pecuniary interests.
Relevant Legislation: Localism Act 2011, s 31.
3 – Public Participation
There were no members of the public in attendance.
4 – Approval of Minutes
To approve the minutes of the Community Engagement & Events Committee held on Wednesday 7 June 2023
The Minutes of the Community Engagement, Wellbeing and Events Committee held on Wednesday 7 June 2023 were approved.
Relevant Legislation: Local Government Act 1972, Sch 12, para 41 (1).
5 – Kent Police
To note the Crime statistics map from Kent Police for Stone Castle and Stone House
Members discussed the statistics presented on the Crime maps and felt that it was misleading due to the inclusion of Bluewater. It was confirmed that the local Police Constable would be invited to the next Committee meeting to provide a more clear update on crime in Stone.
Members resolved to note the Crime statistics map for Stone Castle and Stone House Wards.
6 – Events
6.1 – Summer Events
To note cost and attendance details for the Summer Youth Activities 2023.
Members were presented with a report on the Summer Youth Activities provided and the cost and attendance for these.
It was felt by members that the use of social media to advertise these events was very helpful, but it was felt that using the noticeboards and potentially newsletters to ensure everyone is informed about the events would be preferable to include. It was also suggested that any posters could be requested to go in the local shop windows too.
Members resolved to note the Summer Youth Activities Report 2023.
6.2 – Autumn/Winter Events
To discuss the Autumn & Winter Events as outlined in the attached report.
Members were presented with a report outlining a proposal for events over the Autumn & Winter period. This included recommendations for cancellation of the Christmas Market event to be replaced by a smaller Lights Switch-On event at Stone Pavilion.
Members understood the need to cancel the Christmas Market event on this occasion and agreed that with several others happening on the same day, holding an event anyway would impact both the likelihood of successfully booking enough stallholders and the potential funds that each organization could potentially raise towards their respective activities. Members agreed that a smaller switch on event with the St Mary’s Choir and an appearance by Santa would work better on this occasion. They were keen, however that if possible a Christmas Market event would be considered for next year.
Members raised again the need to find a parade marshall for the Remembrance Service. It was confirmed that the office would contact the local Royal British Legion to request help, although in previous years, they have not been able to provide a marshall.
Members noted the details for the Santa Tractor Trail event were in hand.
Members resolved to note the details of the report and resolved to cancel the Christmas Market event for this year.
6.3 – Calendar of Events 2024
Members were presented with a draft calendar of events for 2024. It was noted that many of these events would be subject to change depending on the Stone Recreation ground Masterplan works and the return of the Community Engagement & Events officer returning from maternity leave.
Members resolved to note the draft calendar of events 2024
7 – Committee Budget 2024
To Consider and Resolve Committee budget recommendations for 2024. Members are requested to discuss and make suggestions for budgetary inclusion for 2024-25 for activities falling under the remit of the CEWE Committee.
Members discussed the need for a launch event for Stone Recreation ground following the substantial works in the Masterplan. It was felt that the events budget should consider the need for this inclusion, however it was also felt that the Masterplan works could affect which events were able to take place in 2024, meaning that the events budget could remain the same.
Members resolved not to make budget recommendations for 2024.
There being no further business, the Chairperson closed the meeting at 20:23.