A summary of the latest DTB monthly meeting
The Dons Trust Board held its monthly meeting on Thursday, 14 March with several important issues up for discussion.
We today publish a summary of what was discussed below so that Dons Trust members can keep up to date with the latest developments.
The management team’s proposals for 2013/14 will be presented in more detail at the next board meeting. Following a discussion about progress both on and off the pitch, and aspirations for next season, it was agreed that the current level of Dons Trust funding would continue. Dennis Lowndes presented the latest accounts for the AFC Wimbledon Ladies and Girls teams.
The board would be seeking members’ agreement to this, enabling a community share scheme to be launched. Dons Trust Secretary, David Hall, later confirmed that an associated constitutional amendment would be tabled for discussion at the SGM in May. The board agreed it was vital it was in a position to do so whenever necessary. Erik said that the Trust may, in the foreseeable future, be asked to make an initial financial commitment towards the project. AFC Wimbledon Chief Executive, Erik Samuelson, presented the latest Football Club Board report, including an update on the possibility of a return to a new stadium in Merton.
The board also discussed a draft football club budget for 2013/14, which will be refined by the FCB for further discussion at the April meeting. The board agreed to these proposals. Erik presented a paper on proposed ticket pricing for next season, based on an assumption that AFC Wimbledon remain in League 2, and recommending that prices should broadly be maintained at this year’s levels.
The board also discussed how best to encourage and support AFC Wimbledon fans in ensuring that the lively, inclusive atmosphere we all want at home and away matches is maintained within the spirit and values of the club. Some FCB proposals in this area were discussed at length and agreed. The DTB and FCB will talk about this subject in various communications with fans over coming weeks. Both boards also appreciated the efforts of a number of supporters who have, over the years, sought to encourage the best (and discourage the worst) of chants and songs we use to get behind the team. All board members agreed to give active support to fans on the terraces and in the stands in such efforts at self-policing.
Agreed minutes of the March meeting will be posted on the Dons Trust website shortly after the next board meeting on 8 April.