Update on council decision regarding grant application
Musselburgh Common Good Committee met last week to reconsider an application from The Hollies Community Hub for funding to increase meal provision, meet the costs of consumables associated with meal provision and maintain the facility’s minibus.
The committee was reconsidering the application in light of new information regarding the ability to access underspend funds from the previous financial year.
Decisions for grant awards in excess of £10,000 require to be referred to a full meeting of East Lothian Council for a decision. Whilst noting concerns about the ongoing viability of The Hollies, the committee agreed that a grant of £30,000 should be awarded to The Hollies. Committee members felt an award at this level would provide an opportunity for the board to demonstrate that these concerns could be addressed going forward. Committee members also agreed a recommendation should be made to The Hollies to engage with Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) and the council’s Economic Development team to develop a sustainable business plan and consider their ongoing management arrangements.
At today’s full council meeting, elected members considered the matter and approved a grant of £30,000 to The Hollies.