Kilcullen a community of 'dedication and spirit' - KCA AGM
A 'truly successful year' was how 2024 was described by the chairperson of Kilcullen Community Action, Ann Cashman, at last evening's AGM of the group, writes Brian Byrne. She said that progress made particularly in the Tidy Towns competition is "a true testament to the dedication and spirit of our wonderful community here in Kilcullen."
She cited the winning of a silver medal in the 2024 competition following the award of a bronze one in 2023 as a 'remarkable' achievement and well deserved recognition reflecting hard work, collaboration and community pride.
Noting some of the key events of the last year, Ann highlighted the Family Day in the Library Garden in May, the ongoing 'magic' of the Kilcullen in Bloom summer flowers, and the Community Day in the Valley in August during which the performance by Mr Bubbles 'captivated' local children. "Another proud moment was the return of the Community Awards night in November, held in Kilcullen Town Hall," she said. "The venue was beautifully transformed with a fitting Thanksgiving-themed decor created by Transition Year students from CPC." Twelve awards were presented during the evening including a special tribute to Professor Tess Lambe for her leading role in the development of a Covid vaccine.
The chair thanked KCA members and the CE team for their work during 2024 and local representative Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer for her 'vital' continued support. Appreciation was also expressed to local businesses for their ongoing generosity and partnership.
Within KCA itself, the chair referenced the 'impeccable financial management' of treasurer Bridget Ryan and the 'incredible governance and guidance' from secretary Tony O'Sullivan.
Looking forward, she revealed a hope that KCA might find a permanent base in the town in coming years, which would be 'transformative'. She concluded by noting 'so much has been achieved, but there's still so much more to come'. "Let's continue building on this amazing momentum as we move into 2025 with pride, purpose and a shared vision for the town's future'"
In her Treasurer's Report, Bridget Ryan highlighted an income for the year of €44,335 and expenditure €44,356 for the group's 2024 activities. She noted that 69pc of that income was in grants from Kildare County Council for various projects, with 18pc coming from the annual street collections and a further 11pc from further donations. She detailed some key expenditures including around €7,000 on Kilcullen in Bloom, some €6,000 on Christmas Lights and in the region of €5,000 on upgrading the Valley Fairy Trail.
Following the completion of formalities of the AGM, which included the required resignation of two directors who were subsequently re-elected, the AGM was closed.
The meeting continued with discussion on a range of current and future matters, about which the Diary will be reporting in the coming days.
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