My Account
Two community groups that are long term users of Orewa Community Hall are concerned that local board belt-tightening could see their hall hire subsidy cut.
Both the Hibiscus Coast Senior Citizens Association and the Hibiscus Coast Country Music Club receive a 50 percent subsidy from Auckland Council on hall hire. Since 2014 the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board has given them an additional subsidy.
The issue was discussed at a local board workshop on March 21.
Staff told local board members that last year’s subsidy of $5000 was spent and next financial year, that amount could be halved or cut completely.
“The groups have used the hall for decades and are attached to the space,” the staff member said. “We don’t want to take that away but with cost of living rises we have to try and recoup costs and do what the Mayor wants.”
The Country Music Club hires the hall monthly for line dancing, live music and refreshments. It has been going there for at least 30 years. Secretary Alan Powell says the subsidy has been the difference between the club breaking even and losing money and wants it retained.
The Senior Citizens Association also wants to keep the subsidy. Patron Des Adams has written to local board members saying the club raised substantial money to build the hall. He says a peppercorn rental would be fair recognition for that.
A further report will come back to the local board, and any changes in the hire fee will take effect in July.
