A Letter from the Chair of Leeds Civic Arts Guild

I just wanted to inform you that this will be the last year I will be Chair of Leeds Civic Arts Guild as I will not be standing for re-election next year. Bryan Craven has also made the decision not to stand for re-election next year as Vice Chair. Bryan and I made our decisions quite independently of each other. We have informed the Guild Executive of our decision and they will be doing some succession planning over the next year so that the reigns of the guild can be passed over to ensure we have business as usual from next September.

I have enjoyed my time as Chair, although at times it has been very challenging, I am proud that we have achieved so much over the years including our move to the Carriageworks.
 
Onto more pressing topics although I was not at the last Open Forum I believe it was very lively, not necessarily in a good way which has resulted in complaints. Unfortunately this seems to be becoming the way that Open Forums have become over the last few years. Executive discussed this issue and have decided that to give everyone the chance to have their say, all comments and questions in future will go through the Chair. We need to ensure that the meetings in future promote dealing with issues in a way that safeguards respect for others. Can you please ensure that this message is passed onto your groups representatives at Open Forums.

Whilst on the issue of Open Forums it is part of LCAG Constitution and consequently one of the terms of each groups membership of the Guild that a representative from each group attends Open Forums. This has not been happening and the Executive will in future be considering action to be taken against groups who constantly do not attend these meetings. 

Any questions/comments on any of this please do not hesitate to contact me.