Two requests for financial assistance by waiving fees and charges have met with a firm no from Council, and community and sporting organisations and groups can expect this to continue, at least for the current financial year.

Council’s budget allocation for assistance of $13,000 has already been fully expended after it was increased in February.

“We do not have any money left in the budget,” General Manager, David Webb said.

“Council is not immune to economical pressure.”

Assistance was sought from Hay Magpies Rugby League Club, requesting waiving the hire of the kiosk and lights for the social touch competition ($832) and from Hay Public School for the hire of the party trailer ($200) for its recent fete.

“This could set a precedent,” Mr Webb warned.

“Expect a wave of requests from others to do the same.”

In her submission for assistance, Magpies president, Kelly Gash said the social touch competition was organised at the conclusion of the 2023 Rugby League season as a means of raising funds and maintaining the fitness levels of the club’s regular players.

“Throughout this period, we occasionally operated a small canteen offering one of two food options, along with selling drinks on most weeks,” Mrs Gash wrote.

“The canteen was typically utilised for an hour and a half during our comp.

“This competition did not raise significant funds for the club, but every contribution counts.

“Nevertheless, our funds have been significantly reduced by the high cost of renting the kiosk.

“Additionally, we utilised a meeting room adjacent to the canteen for a brief meeting and have been charged $52 for its use.”

Mrs Gash said the competition took place around 6pm and concluded well before dusk during daylight savings time.

“This could set a very dangerous precedent,” Mr Webb again warned.

“We cannot confirm nor deny the lights were used.

“If Council agrees to the request, they (other clubs and organisations) will be lining up at the door and you will get this every month.”

Speaking in favour of the requests, Cr Geoff Chapman asked that Council waives the cost of the lights fee if they were not used for the touch competition, and suggested a donation at the end of each season to groups who did not utilise a respective facility or Council-owned property continuously.

However, a motion from Cr Lionel Garner not to waive any fees or charges won the support of the rest of Council.

Cr Chapman asked that his vote against the motion be recorded, saying “the lights weren’t used”.

“Can you prove it?” Cr Peter Handford asked.

This article appeared in The Riverine Grazier, 24 April 2024.