Basingstoke FC chairman seeks assurance funds from stadium sale reinvested in the club.
Jack Miller, the BTFC chairman, spoke at the council meeting. He asked for “real assurances” that the money will be reinvested in the football club, calling this a “rare and pivotal moment.”
Miller stated this is about more than football; he believes it is about fairness and community, and it also affects Basingstoke’s future. The club has engaged proactively with the council.
Miller said this meeting is a key moment, as he wants the council to do what is right. The club wants to control its own circumstances because legal issues have previously decided the club’s fate. The council now has a chance to help.
Miller said the issues affect many, including the women’s team, the college program, and youth teams. Community groups who used the clubhouse are also affected, and “Every aspect of our engagement” is disrupted.
The club adapted to being displaced and proved their effectiveness by running a sustainable community club. Miller desires the council’s commitment and seeks action, not just words.
Those affected need a say in reinvestment, as he wants assurance of reinvestment in BTFC. The discussions with the council are forward-thinking, requiring the council to recognize what they took.
Miller wants the council’s backing to use the funds to create a home for the football team. He believes this home will serve the community for generations and thanked the council for their consideration.