Issue - meetings

(Chairmen of the Select Committees) To report to the meeting on progress against achievement of the current work programme, as required under Article 6 (Overview and Scrutiny) of the Constitution, and for any recommendations for consideration by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

For information: the current work programme for each select committee is attached as an appendix to this agenda.

(a)           Stronger Communities Select Committee

The January meeting had been cancelled but two meetings were scheduled for March. Councillor J Lea remarked that a lot of items had been completed but she wanted the select committee to scrutinise a housing association.

(b)           Stronger Council Select Committee

Councillor J McIvor reported that on 24 January the select committee had received an interesting presentation on the onboarding/induction process and was updated on the developments of the Wellbeing Hub, which set a high standard for other local authorities. Members also pre-scrutinised the Cabinet’s draft budget proposals for 2023/24.

(c)           Stronger Place Select Committee

The select committee had reviewed an update on parking, the Off Street Civic Parking Enforcement Policy, and the Air Quality Action Plan. Councillor R Balcombe added that progress of the Local Plan and sustainable transport were due on 7 March. Members also wished to know when the Climate Change Action Plan would be scrutinised. They also wanted to add scrutiny of Planning to their work programme and A Small offered to liaise with the Chairman on this.

Following a query on internal communications to councillors before the local media, Councillor C Whitbread commented that press releases, agendas, minutes and emails were regularly sent out. He further clarified that on a recent Biffa matter there was a slight delay before communications were announced, as progress and agreement between the waste contractor and the Council had to be agreed first.

            RESOLVED:

            That the select committee Chairmen reported on progress against the achievement of their respective current work programme.