Neighbourhood invited to PWNA annual meeting on Nov. 5

If you’ve been reading the Post, you may have noticed reference to the Pleasant-Woodside Neighbourhood Association (PWNA) — the non-profit group that organizes community events (including the annual Spring Clean Up) and publishes this newsletter.

Neighbourhood resident Kate Crane recently called up PWNA Board Chair Grant MacDonald to discuss the group’s upcoming Annual General Meeting — what it’s all about, what one can expect, and why one should go (besides the snacks!).

Hi Grant. Can you tell us why the Pleasant-Woodside Neighbourhood Association has an annual general meeting?

We are required by law to have one, as we are an organization incorporated under the Societies Act of Nova Scotia. It’s in our by-laws to have one at least once a year. So, we have to do it!

What is the purpose of an annual general meeting?

Generally, the PWNA reports to the members of the community on what’s happened over the past year. It’s also to gather ideas, and learn what members’ expectations are for the future. It’s an opportunity to connect with our community. This is a chance to meet with PWNA members. Primarily and ideally, it’s a chance to get feedback from community members, provide updates to them, and learn how to participate (either by serving on the board or serving as volunteers). Also, it’s an important opportunity to select or elect new board members. Some people will be stepping down, some will be volunteering, so it’s a chance to confirm with the community that these people are helping the organization move forward, and also how they can be contacted if community members have questions or ideas.

What can one expect? What is the format?

There will be the more routine, legal things, like verbal or written reports from the board members, a review of finances, the election of new board members, etc. But we will also incorporate an informal Neighborhood Forum which will give community members a chance to hear from their elected representatives and others about what’s going on in the neighbourhood, and a chance for the community to share their hopes and aspirations. There will be a few simple presentations with lots of chances for questions, feedback, ideas.

What’s on the docket for this AGM?

The agenda is sent out in advance via the Facebook page, email, and The South Dartmouth Post’s webpage. We’ll touch on PWNA projects like the Post, the Harbour Front Trail, the Welcome to Neighborhood Initiative, our Meet & Greets, the annual Spring Clean Up, etc. But much more time will be taken up on more general, civic kinds of concerns.

Why should I go? Is it important that I go?

You should go to get a sense of what your own neighbourhood group is doing and find out from your elected representatives what they’re up to, and to share your ideas and concerns, both municipally and provincially. It’s a chance to see your councillors in an informal, face-to-face setting. You should also come to meet new people and neighbours! It’s a chance to come with ideas to make the neighborhood a better place to live, work, and play.

Can we bring our kids?

Yes, you can! We’ll set up a little supervised play area, with colouring, etc. We are happy to have the kids. We’ve got a kitchen space and will offer treats and snacks.

For a copy of the agenda, click here.

The PWNA AGM

Where: COVE, 27 Parker Street

Day: Wednesday, Nov. 5

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

All welcome!