• The post you are reporting:
   
  At the Dover District Neighbourhood Forum held on 13th October there were 15 groups pitching for £23,563 in grants, unfortunately there was only £16,141 available for distribution.
  
  After some interesting demonstrations and presentations the vote was held with the upshot that 4 groups including LRCF appeared to be unsuccessful in our applications (and WHPS, as you have read above, getting less than they asked for); however Gordan Cowan then took the mic to announce that he had been so impressed by all the pitches and the dedication and enthusiasm shown that he didnt want to see any one denied and as he had budget spare he would make up the £7,422 shortfall.
  
  So whilst it ended up a satisfactory evening as we ultimately got what we were seeking and had the opportunity to network with other groups, one was left with the feeling that a degree of politics had been played and we had had our time wasted to a greater or lesser extent depending on your point of view. The process of pitching and voting is unsatisfactory as we are all making a significant contribution to our community and the councillors need to rethink this and look to a more inclusive and co-operative process even if it ultimately means we all ended up with 30% less than we had pitched for - after all it is easier to raise £30 than £100.

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