Alexandra's promotion group faces closure, after a mass resignation by committee members and a lack of outside interest.
Promote Alexandra Inc now comprises just two committee members after six resigned during the society's annual meeting last week.
Only treasurer Mark Tait and Vincent Community Board representative Cam Withington remain.
Former chairman Shaun McLellan, vice-chairman David Grant, secretary Alice Stewart and members Suzette Battrick, Denis Claridge, and Greg Stewart resigned.
Five members of the public attended the meeting, but no nominations for committee members were received.
A special meeting of the group will be held in Alexandra on September 10, to garner support for new committee members.
Promote Alexandra was most recently in the news when it was criticised for a plan to mount a giant cherry blossom sculpture in the town.
The proposed $13,500 sculpture was described as a crass monstrosity by residents opposed to the idea.
Vincent board members asked the group to prioritise its $75,000 wish-list for funding, which included the sculpture, and reapply for less money.
Last year, the board reduced its funding for promotional activities from $60,000 to $45,000.
The funding which had previously all been allocated to Promote Alexandra also became contestable.
The society's plight was discussed at yesterday's Vincent Community Board meeting.
Member Martin McPherson said the board could show leadership by "brainstorming" about what was happening in terms of Alexandra's public relations and marketing.
Fellow member Mary Flannery wondered whether rates for promotion should be dropped if there was not a group to use them.
Mr McLellan, who was chairman for one year and a member since 2004, said as the group's primary source of funding had changed, more up-front work was required to achieve transparency and secure financial support.
He said Alexandra's business community needed to take a more "hands-on" approach with the society, as 70% of the community board's promotion funding was made up of business rates.
A recent survey indicated business support for a promotions group, he said.
Mr McLellan said other commitments and an increase in committee requirements contributed to his decision to leave.
A past chairman, Mr Claridge said it was time for "new blood".
He had been a member since the society's inception in 1997 and chairman for three years.
Mrs Battrick was also chairman for three years during her eight years in the society.
Both Mr and Mrs Stewart had been members for two years.
Mrs Stewart said the funding situation had put "incredible" pressure on members.
"We need some fresh energetic people to step up to the mark and move it forward."
