Community board declines Grey Power funding

A request from the Dannevirke and Districts Grey Power committee for funding to continue the free transport of members in the community car to monthly meetings had community board members shaking their heads this week.

Alison Burson, Grey Power secretary, had written to the community board asking for $1000 for 2019 because they were reluctant to discontinue funding the free service for their members.

However, community board member Terry Hynes said he struggled with the request.

“This board put money into the Community Vehicle Trust which charges $5 for a return trip within the hour, or $6 otherwise and I have a problem if someone can’t afford $6, then something is wrong,” he said.

Ross MacDonald, chairman of the community board, also queried the request.

“Grey Power have a big membership, why can’t those who can’t drive be picked up by other members?” he said.

Mrs Burson’s letter said a monetary donation from one of Grey Power’s members enabled the organisation to instigate and fund the free service which is being used by more members.

Mr MacDonald said he thought the $1000 being requested would fund 10 years of free community vehicle trips and he recommended his board decline the request on the grounds that the community car was a service for the public, with its fares already heavily subsidised.