Hampshire County Council

Executive Member - Policy and Resources Item 4

10 June 2004

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens: Patrons Scheme

Report by the Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services

1

Summary

1.1

The following decisions are sought:

1. That approval be given to the introduction of a Patrons Scheme and that all nominations for Patrons are formally approved by the Executive Member for Policy and Resources on an annual basis.

2

Reason(s)

2.1

To formally recognise the significant contribution made by individuals to the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.

2.2

This decision supports Aim 1 - Maximising life opportunities and Aim 2 Stewardship of the environment of the Corporate Strategy

3

Other options considered and rejected

3.1

None.

4

Conflicts of interest declared by the decision-maker or other Executive Member consulted

4.1

Not applicable

5

Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

5.1

Not applicable

6

Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1

Not applicable

Approved by:

..........................

Date of decision:

.........................

Councillor T K Thornber

Hampshire County Council

Executive Member - Policy and Resources Item 4

10 June 2004

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens: Patrons Scheme

Report by the Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services

How the conclusion in this report fits with the Corporate Strategy

The proposals in this report will impact on the delivery of all the Corporate Aims, in particular.

Aim 1 - maximising life opportunities - the management and protection of the Gardens enriches the recreational and cultural opportunities for people in Hampshire.

Aim 2 - stewardship of the environment - the management and expansion of the Gardens contributes to the biodiversity in Hampshire.

1

Introduction

1.1

The Gardens has achieved much success over recent years and this can be attributed to the significant input that the County Council has made in developing and enhancing the Gardens and its resources. This success has also been made possible by the contribution from individuals who have supported the Gardens over many years, either through the provision of time and expertise and/or substantial donations. This reports seeks approval to introduce a Patrons scheme which would allow individuals' generosity to be formally recognised.

2

Patrons Scheme

2.1

The introduction of a Patrons Scheme has been referred to in the past by the Management Committee. It is now suggested that a protocol be agreed that allows the Management Committee to short list potential patrons with the Director of Property, Business and Regulatory Services for consideration and appointment by the Executive Member for Policy and Resources.

2.2

It is anticipated that individuals nominated to become Patrons would fall within one or more of the following categories:

1. Donors of significant sums of money

2. Individuals who have provided outstanding advice, guidance or expertise over a long period.

3. Individuals who through influence, dedication or leadership have made a major contribution to the successful development of the Gardens

4. Others who deserved to be recognised for their outstanding personal contribution

2.3

The Charitable Trust Deed which sets out the responsibilities of the County Council and the Management Committee, and details the composition of the Committee makes no specific reference to supporting proposals such as this; likewise the Trust Deed does not rule it out.

2.4

It is not anticipated that significant numbers of Patrons would be appointed. Those that were would not be expected to provide a financial or material return, however they would be encouraged to act as ambassadors for the Gardens and help with networking on selected issues and initiatives.

2.5

It is intended to consider nominations on an annual basis and submit them for approval to the Executive Member for Policy and Resources each autumn.

Recommendation(s)

That the Executive Member for Policy and Resources:

1

Agrees the development of a Patrons Scheme at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and approves nominations on an annual basis.