The Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday 17 June 2026 to discuss financial assistance applications, review the fund's monitoring report and budget, and consider updates on various local initiatives. The meeting will also address a motion regarding an annual Christmas tree for Hawick and a property update.

Applications for Financial Assistance

The sub-committee will consider two applications for financial assistance. The first is from Tunes by the Teviot, requesting £1,750 towards the costs of their 2026 event. This funding would contribute to artist and band fees, as well as essential event infrastructure such as stall provision and water supplies. The application highlights that the event aims to provide accessible opportunities for local residents of all ages, with a focus on families, young people, and those facing barriers to participation. The event is planned for Saturday 15 August at the Wee Haugh, featuring tribute acts, local bands, family activities, and food vendors.

The second application is from the Hawick Common Riding Committee SCIO, seeking £1,996 to cover the cost of additional portable toilets required for the Common Riding weekend. This request arises due to the removal of existing permanent toilets on Hawick Moor, which are awaiting replacement. The committee states that the additional units are necessary to ensure adequate facilities for attendees and to maintain the financial viability of the event.

Monitoring Report and Proposed Budget

A key item on the agenda is the Monitoring Report for the 12 months to 31 March 2026 and Proposed Budget for 2026-27. This report, prepared by the Director of Finance, details the income and expenditure for the Hawick Common Good Fund for the past financial year and presents a draft budget for the upcoming year, along with forecasts for the subsequent two years. The report indicates a projected deficit balance of £98,340 at 31 March 2026. It also provides details on rental income, property expenditure, the status of the approved grant budget, and the performance of the Aegon Asset Management Investment Fund. The sub-committee will be asked to note the financial position and approve the draft budget for 2026/27.

Frederick Douglass Working Group Update

An update from the Frederick Douglass Working Group (FDWG) is scheduled for discussion. This group has been working on projects commemorating Frederick Douglass's visit to Hawick in 1846, as well as other individuals of colour who have contributed to the Borders. The report details achievements such as the unveiling of a bronze plaque, inspiring an Edinburgh World Heritage Trust plaque, and the development of equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives for students. It also outlines future projects, including the establishment of a Frederick Douglass Prize and a book and exhibition titled 'Adopted Teries'. The FDWG has a remaining balance of £802, ringfenced within the Hawick Archaeological Society accounts.

Motion for Annual Christmas Tree

Councillor Watson McAteer, seconded by Councillor Stuart Marshall, has put forward a motion concerning the provision of an annual Christmas tree for Hawick. The motion proposes that the sub-committee recognises the value of an annual Christmas tree and asks the Director of Environment and Infrastructure to investigate the Hawick Common Good woodlands for suitable tree species. It further requests the identification of an area for planting Christmas tree species to ensure future provision and suggests ring-fencing a sum of up to £1,500 in 2026 to support an application from a community organisation for the purchase of a Christmas tree, should a suitable one not be found within the woodlands.

Woodland Management Plan

An update on the development of the Woodland Management Plan is also scheduled.

Property Update

The sub-committee will receive an update on Common Good property.

The meeting will also include consideration of the minutes and action trackers from previous meetings held on 19 November 2025, 15 December 2025, and 4 March 2026.