Tony's Latest PASB Newsletter

Plymouth Argyle fan Tony Hooper releases his fifth campaign newsletter ahead of the election for the Plymouth Argyle Supporters Board.

Nine independent fans have put themselves forward to contest the six seats on offer for the PASB.

In this newsletter Tony talks about the election and raises some issues on the process and timetable of events.

Common Questions
Thanks for all the feedback to last edition Common Questions feature. It appears to have been a help to a great number of you. If you have any more questions please contact us on the number and address below and we will do our best to get an answer to you.

Ballots Ahoy!
So, now we finally know the ballot papers will be sent to all members on the 28th September and will close on the 19th October with the results announced on the following day.

Despite the view in some limited quarters that this will be a Brent's Poodle group even a cursory glance at the names and supporters groups putting their names forward should dispel the fears of even the most cynical.

Independent Candidate
That is why it is crucial to have an independent member on the PASB. Someone with no vested interests, a member for ALL the fans in the Argyle Family, not the few.

Hustings
Along with the election announcements, it has also been announced there will be hustings to question the candidates on the 29.09.2012. However, two candidates have already withdrawn as 'not available' and at the time of writing it is not clear if this will go ahead or be withdrawn. No venue has been declared either, so watch this space.

First term questions
As we get nearer the first election, some important questions are surfacing that will need addressing.
How often will elections for the PASB take place? The club are paying for this first election, will they be prepared to meet the cost of future ones if the Constitution demands annual elections?

We do not know how much the election is costing, but a conservative estimate must be at least £10,000, quite some sum if the PASB go for annual elections with no alternative source proposed to date. So perhaps a four year term?

In which case do we need 12 members as currently organised? Personally, I'd have thought from past experience six would have been more than enough.
How will the fans be kept informed? I have to say I favour a mix approach. During this election I have utilised: Social media, email, paper flyers, mobile calls and text. I would hope the PASB will use all these and have their own pages on the Official website with control over content.

But best of all is chatting to people one-to-one, so if you see me at the game on Saturday or Tuesday night, come and have a chat.

Finally, whatever you think, find a candidate to support and use your vote!

Phone or text the hotline to have your say 07966727780.
Email tonycholwell@hotmail.com
twitter.com/tonyinvestigate

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.