The meeting focused on the appointment of the chair and the approval of funding applications for community projects in East and West Molesey. Councillor Annette Popum was appointed as chair for the 2024-25 year. Two funding applications were discussed and approved.

Appointment of Chair

Councillor Annette Popum was nominated and confirmed as the chair for the local spending board for East and West Molesey for the year 2024-25.

Declarations of Interest

Councillor Steve declared that he had previously met some of the applicants but stated that it was not a pecuniary interest.

Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

The minutes from the meeting held on June 5, 2023, were agreed upon without any objections.

Funding Applications for Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Funds

East Molesey Methodist Church

Annette Petty from the East Molesey Methodist Church presented an application for funding to replace single-glazed windows with double-glazed ones in Moss Hall. The south side windows were replaced in March 2022, and the church seeks funds to replace the north side windows, which are in poor condition. The project aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and lower fees for hall users. The hall is used by various groups, including a nursery, dancing groups, brownies, rainbows, and a photographic company.

Councillor Steve supported the application, noting the hall's extensive use. The board decided to fund the project fully.

St. Peter's Community and Youth Hub

Alex and Jo from St. Peter's Community and Youth Hub on Ray Road, West Molesey, applied for £18,607.78 to refurbish the kitchen. The current kitchen is inadequate for the building's heavy usage, which includes baby groups, toddler groups, a food bank, a night shelter, and a youth program. The refurbishment would include installing commercial-grade appliances to better serve the approximately 500 people who use the facility weekly.

Councillor Tony and other members praised the work being done at St. Peter's and supported the application. The board decided to fund the project fully.

Conclusion

Both applications were approved for full funding, and the meeting concluded with the applicants being informed of the board's decision.