New grants policy takes effect

Twenty-three groups across Matamata-Piako have received funding as part of the Community Grants Policy.

Following the disestablishment of community boards, council adopted the Community Grants Policy in 2014, guiding the administration of $15,000.

In July, Matamata-Piako District Council adopted the revised policy to increase the total to $30,000, allocating $10,000 to each of the three Matamata-Piako wards, as part of the 2017-2018 financial year.

As part of the policy, ward councillors were able to determine the outcome of each application received.

The funding round was open between July 26 and September 1 and funds were distributed in two funding rounds in August and February in each financial year.

Of the 23 applications, nine were from Matamata, five from Morrinsville and 10 for Te Aroha.

In Morrinsville, $2350 was allocated from a total of $8237.85 requested. The ward has $7650 remaining.

In Te Aroha, $10,669.73 was requested and $2736.85 was allocated, leaving $7444.24 remaining.