As there have been a few comments on the forum on this subject, it was thought giving the facts might be useful. A damage deposit is not a new idea but lately it has been increased and enforced because there have been a few cases where considerable damage has been done. As is often the case a few spoil it for the many. It is taken in cash because:
- The Auditor recommends this.
- It can be paid back more quickly if in cash, rather than waiting for a cheque to be raised at the next TC meeting, which could take several weeks. All our cheques require three signatures and the only time all councillors are together is at TC meetings.
- If taken as a cheque and secured in the safe and not banked it could be stopped. If there is a dispute this could happen. It states in the hiring agreement (in bold) the amount of days that must elapse before a DD is repaid. This gives the caretaker time to examine, report to the Town Clerk and if necessary get a member of the hall committee to look at the damage. Many hirers come in the next day and get annoyed when they are told it is too soon. The situation is transparent if the hiring agreement is read before signing and any questions can be asked of the desk staff. If they cannot answer they recommend that the hirer speaks to one of the councillors on the hall committee, usually the chairman.
Hopefully this is now clearer.
In view of the comments, this matter was brought up at the hall working party meeting on the 29/2/12 and discussed. Any group needing further advice please refer to the hall chairman, who is at present Penny Kraft – 826633.
