Story & photo: John Mellor
Fifteen residents from the Carwood estate met with Neil Ashton from the Council Housing Services on 4th July for a postponed annual general meeting.
Most of those present had not been involved with a tenants and residents association previously and Neil first explained what was involved in the running of a TARA and how it was funded.
In explanation, he said:
“TARAs are financed by a weekly 10p levy from rents paid to the Council. How this money is spent, for the benefit of the community, is then decided by a committee representing those living in the area.”
The main purpose of the meeting was therefore to elect the three main officers of the TARA, namely, Chair, Secretary and Treasurer.
Following a friendly and good natured discussion between those present, including translation for those who needed it, the meeting came to a unanimous decision, with the agreement of those who were nominated for these positions.
The meeting decided that Metaq Dhalei should be the Chair, with Mahro Razzaq as Secretary and Jean Hill as Treasurer. Clearly, everyone was happy with these decisions and with the progress made at the meeting. Others present agreed to serve on the committee alongside the three elected officers.
The new committee will meet later this month to discuss future plans and activities for the area.