On Wednesday 16th March, the Dons Trust Board (DTB) gathered via Microsoft Teams for its regular monthly meeting. This is a summary of matters discussed, pending publication of full minutes.
Attendees were as follows:
From the Dons Trust Board (DTB): Charlie Talbot, Freddy Flaxman, Hannah Kitcher, Kris Stewart, Luke Mackenzie, Michele Little, Niall Couper, Xavier Wiggins, Graham Stacey.
Also, in attendance; Secretary – Martin Newton, Communications Assistant – Matt Stockbridge.
Chair of the Women’s Board, David Growns joined the meeting to share an update on AFC Wimbledon Women’s team and discuss the desire to play as many games as possible at Plough Lane. The Board agreed that an improved plan will be agreed which will include the reworking of the cost structure for playing at Plough Lane this season. Further discussion is now needed to clarify the plans for next season and the budgets that have been proposed.
David Growns left the meeting and the discussion moved to the report to the PLC from the interim Chair, Mick Buckley. The Board discussed priorities for the Board and for Mick Buckley in his role as interim Chair. There was a request for the DTB members’ priorities for this season to be updated in particular taking into account the priorities that Mick has as he manages the interim period before a replacement for the CEO is appointed. The intent is to then share these on the club website.
The Board then moved on to discuss finance. The Plough Lane Bond has now raised in excess of £3m and is on the way to surpassing the initial target of £3.3m. Other investment options from existing and new sources are continuing.
The Board agreed the date for the next SGM, which would be 19.30 on Wednesday 25 May 2022.
The Board put on the record they’re thanks to everyone at the club for all their efforts in hosting the recent major football trophy final. Specific thanks were also received formally from the FA on the successful hosting of the Continental Cup Final at Plough Lane.
The Board then discussed the detailed ticketing implementation review, which has now been completed. Before the report is made public, the usual due diligence on the findings will be checked with the legal team before being shared.
Proposals over the memorial garden are now close to being finalised. It’s also looking increasingly as though this could be funded by existing bequests to the club. Subject to this being confirmed, the plan is for the garden to be constructed and then opened before the beginning of next season.
Next there was a demonstration of the club’s external communications system which details exactly what content is planned to be shared, by when and on what channels. The plan is reviewed weekly with oversight from the DTB.
The Board discussed the recent football results and what steps could be taken to improve the teams fm. Board members’ thoughts were collated. a consensus reached and this will be discussed further at the PLC meeting with a view to clarifying Board positions in a statement next week.