The below minutes are of meeting held with Paul Faulkner, AVFC CEO. The minutes have been approved to be released to members and on this website by Paul Faulkner, and are subject to an EMBARGO that they are not to be circulated or to appear on any other Villa websites. We apologise for the delay in issuing the minutes of this meeting.
NOTES ON MEETING 8 JUNE 2010
Paul Faulkner
Robin Russell
David Woodhall
Peter Warrilow
What are the plans for the North Stand?
Currently there are not any plans for rebuild. The construction of the stand prohibits any piece meal alterations and the future of the stand will be looked at on an ongoing basis in line with the rest of the stadium.
Are there any plans to unwind any remaining non core property assets?
This is under constant review in conjunction with planners and potential demand.
Will we have a new shirt sponsor for season 2010/2011?
This is expected to be formalised shortly
UEFA Rules on financial stability- will we be able to comply?
It is believed that we will and all clubs will be expected to do so on a transparent basis
Supporters Consultation Group
DW and PW expressed the view that it is too single issue focussed and that there is a bias towards Supporters Clubs and internet sites. It is acknowledged that the constituents are however those who make themselves available.
The timing of meetings is often inconvenient eg 1700 hours on a working day for midweek games and staging them on matchdays means time is limited.
There is a need to focus on wider issues and to have some continuity in attendees such that previous issues can be expanded upon and that the same issues are not constantly being reintroduced.
PF and RR said this would be looked at.
Heritage
DW and PW advised that Trevor Fisher is investigating the possibility with Birmingham Civic Society of a ‘Blue Plaque’ in respect of William McGregor.
A group of supporters is looking to tidy up graves at Handsworth Parish Church where Ramsay and McGregor are buried. We would need consent of the Church.
Following John Lerwills departure there are not any plans for volumes 3 and 4 of The Aston Villa Chronicles to be completed.
The Trust is investigating the possibility of completing an Oral History Archive of the memories of Aston Villa Supporters. Grant funding would be needed and we have already spoken to The Heritage Lottery Fund and have a meeting arranged with The Central Library staff. We would hope that the Club could host the archive with others being retained by The Trust, The Library and perhaps the Football League. No cost to the Club.
What are the possibilities of an abbreviated set of accounts being made available more widely?
This is entirely up to Randy Lerner.
Are our debts serviceable?
Yes. There is very little by way of external debt
There is a demand for a ‘Fans Forum’ to be reintroduced
This is being looked at but with a restricted attendance (numbers)
DW and PW expressed a regret that ‘tapping up’ seems to be an issue {Gareth Barry and James Milner} but accepted that it has always gone on and is likely to continue
Time ran out and other issues could not be raised. A future meeting on a similar basis to be arranged, and PF and RR were thanked for their hospitality and for answering questions so openly.
