Community patrol inches closer for Matamata

The rubber is getting closer to hitting the road where the Matamata community patrol is concerned.

At a recent Matamata Public Relations Association board meeting, members agreed to give $10,000 towards the purchase of a dedicated patrol vehicle and 12 months’ vehicle insurance.

PRA manager Sue Whiting said the PRA is totally committed to the project.

‘‘We believe that the community patrols will support the safety of our town – CBD businesses and residential areas alike.’’

Sue noted those businesses which have paid the 2015/2016 PRA subscription are the real heroes in this project, as it was subscription income which allowed the PRA to offer the money to the community patrol group.

‘‘We have a very generous community and I have great faith that others will help top up funding required for a small fourwheel drive vehicle,’’ Sue said.

‘‘Those businesses which support the community patrol will have their names sign-written on the car.

‘‘It is important to acknowledge those that support our town.’’

PRA chair Mike Buckman has asked Brian Hunter to head the community patrols’ steering group.

‘‘Brian is the ideal person to lead the group because of his extensive experience with the Matamata Volunteer Fire Brigade and as a director for many years of his own successful business,’’ Mike said.

Brian said community response to the night-time patrols has been extremely encouraging and that any move to make the Matamata community safer is worthy of widespread support.

The steering committee will be meeting to discuss the establishment requirements and start the volunteer vetting process and training.

‘‘All things being equal, we hope to see the community patrols up and running soon,’’ Brian said.