Agenda and minutes

To approve as a correct record and sign the minutes of the meeting held on 26 September 2006 (attached).

            RESOLVED:

            That the minutes of the meeting held on 26 September 2006 be taken as read and signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

(Joint Chief Executive) To declare interests in any item on the agenda.

(a)            Pursuant to the Council’s Code of Member Conduct, Councillor D Stallan declared a personal interest in agenda item 12(b) (Gambling Act 2005 – Adoption of Statement of Principles and Consequential Changes to the Licensing System) by virtue of being employed by one of the consultees.  He declared that his interest was not prejudicial and indicated that he would remain in the meeting for the consideration of the item.

(b)            Pursuant to the Council’s Code of Member of Conduct, Councillor S Murray declared a personal interest in agenda item 7(d) (Report of Community Wellbeing Portfolio Holder) by virtue of being a trustee not nominated by the Council of a management committee of a local Citizens’ Advice Bureau which had received grant aid.  He declared that his interest was prejudicial but pointed out that the matter was due to be taken as read.  He advised that if any question was raised about this report under agenda item 8 (Questions by Members without Notice) he would leave the meeting for the duration of that discussion.

(a)            Apologies for Absence

(b)            Announcements

To consider any announcements by:

(i)         the Chairman of the Council;

(ii)        the Leader of the Council; and

(iii)      any other Cabinet Member.

(c)      Essex Ambulance Community First Responders – Presentation

The Chairman will make a presentation to one of her charities.

(d)      Member Computer Training – Award of Certificates

Several members have completed IT training and will receive their certificates from the Chairman of the Council.

(a)            Chairman’s Announcements

(i)            Webcast of Meeting

The Chairman reminded everyone present that the meeting would be broadcast live to the Internet and would be capable of repeated viewing.

(ii)            Flowers

The Chairman announced that the floral display from tonight’s meeting would be sent to Janet Percy, widow of Parish Councillor Ken Percy who had been a deputy to the Parish Council representative on the Council’s Standards Committee and had served the community of Fyfield for many years.

(iii)       Royal Norwegian Air Force Visit

The Chairman read a letter of thanks from the Major General of the Royal Norwegian Air Force for the hospitality and arrangements made by the Council in relation to the visit to the District by members of the Royal Norwegian Air Force, Royal Norwegian Air Force Veterans and Royal Air Force Veterans as part of the celebrations for the 90^th anniversary of North Weald Airfield.

(iv)            Chairman’s Charity Events

The Chairman encouraged members to enter teams for a quiz evening in aid of her charities to be held at the Theydon Bois Village Hall on 9 February 2007.

She also asked members to buy tickets for a Christmas raffle in aid of her charities which would be available after the meeting.

(b)            Leader’s Announcements

(i)         East of England Plan

Councillor Mrs D Collins reported that The Rt Hon Ruth Kelly MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, had published recommendations earlier in the day in relation to the East of England Plan.  If adopted, after a period of consultation ending on 9 March 2007, the recommendations would direct the shape of development in the District for decades to come.

Councillor Mrs Collins reported that the Secretary of State had agreed with the view of the Panel of Inspectors at the Examination in Public that North Weald was the wrong place for large-scale development.  She further reported that the Secretary of State appeared to have agreed with the Council’s view that development should take place to the north of Harlow.  The overall housing allocation proposal for Harlow was 16,000 and the Secretary of State was suggesting that at least 10,000 should be to the north of the town.

However, the announcement was not entirely good news for the District as the Secretary of State had not supported the Council’s strongest objection to the Examination in Public recommendations regarding development to the south, east and west of Harlow as part of Harlow itself and as part of this Council’s housing allocation.  References to developments within the Green Belt areas of Epping Forest District had been retained and the Council’s housing allocation had been increased from 2,300 to 3,500.  The Secretary of State had advised that she intended to give local authorities more control over the precise location of the new houses and they were encouraged to work together.

Councillor Mrs Collins pointed out that the recommendations comprised several hundred pages and that the Council’s Planning Officers would be studying the full text over the next  ...  view the full minutes text for item 55.

      Recommendations:

(1)       To note that Councillor G Stollar resigned as a District Councillor on 2 November 2006;

(2)       To welcome the newly elected councillor representing the Grange Hill ward; and

(3)       To be advised whether in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and the Local Government (Committees and Political Groups) Regulations1990, as amended, the newly elected councillor has given notice of joining a political group of the Council.

(Returning Officer/Head of Research and Democratic Services) Following notification of resignation from Councillor Stollar and a request to fill the vacancy, nominations were received and arrangements made for a bye- election on 14 December 2006.

An oral report will be made on the result of the by-election. If the newly elected member has signed a declaration of acceptance of office prior to this meeting, he/she is expected to be present. An oral report will be made on whether a notice has been given by the newly elected member regarding membership of a political group of the Council.

Background Papers: Notice of joining a political group (if appropriate).

The Council was advised that following notification of resignation from Councillor G Stollar and a request to fill the vacancy, nominations had been received and arrangements made for a bye-election to be held on 14 December 2006.

The Council was advised that Councillor K Chana had been elected, had signed a declaration of acceptance of office and had given notice of joining the Conservative Group of the Council.

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That the resignation of Councillor G Stollar on 2 November 2006 be noted;

            (2)            That Councillor K Chana be welcomed as the newly elected representative for the Grange Hill ward; and

            (3)            That, in accordance with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and the Local Government (Committees and Political Groups) Regulations 1990, as amended, the notice given by Councillor Chana of joining the Conservative Group of the Council be noted.

Recommendations:

(1)   To consider any request for a review of pro-rata membership of committees, sub-committees and panels; and

(2)   That, subject to (1) above, either (a) to appoint members to committees, sub-committees and panels for the remainder of the current municipal year on the nomination of Group Leaders; or (b) to appoint to the following vacancies on the nomination of Group Leaders:

(i)     member of District Development Control Committee;

(ii)   member of Area Plans Sub-Committee ‘A’; and

(iii)vice-chairman of District Development Control Committee.

(Head of Research and Democratic Services) Depending on the result of the Grange Hill by-election on 14 December 2006, to consider any request made by a political group on the Council for a review of pro-rata membership of committees, sub-committees and panels.

In the event of such a request, the Council will be asked to make appointments to committees, sub-committees and panels for the remainder of the current municipal year on the nominations of Group Leaders.

If there has been no request for a review, the Council will need to appoint to the following vacancies arising from Councillor Stollar’s resignation:

(a)   member of District Development Control Committee;

(b)   member of Area Plans Sub-Committee ‘A’; and

(c)   vice-chairman of District Development Committee.

An explanatory schedule will be tabled, if necessary, to show any changes required in allocations between political groups.

The Council was advised that following the Grange Hill bye-election on 14 December 2006, no request had been made by any political group on the Council for a review of pro-rata membership of committees, sub-committees and panels.  As a result it would only be necessary to appoint to the vacancies arising from Councillor Stollar’s resignation.

            RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY:

            (1)            That Councillor D Kelly be appointed Vice-Chairman of the District Development Control Committee for the remainder of the current municipal year;

            (2)            That Councillor M Cohen be appointed a member of Area Plans Sub-Committee ‘A’ for the remainder of the current municipal year; and

            (3)            That the vacancy on the District Development Control Committee be filled by a nomination from the Liberal Democrats Group to be made by the Leader of that Group.

To answer questions asked after notice in accordance with the provisions contained in paragraph 9.3 of the Council Procedure Rules of the Constitution on any matter in relation to which the Council has powers or duties or which affects the District:

(a)           to the Leader of the Council;

(b)        to the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee; or

(c)        to any Portfolio Holder.

Questions, if any, will follow if not received in time to be incorporated into the agenda.

No public questions had been received for consideration at the meeting.

To receive the reports from the Leader, Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and members of the Cabinet on matters falling within their areas of responsibility:

(a)   report of the Leader (attached);

(b)   report of the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (attached);

(c)   report of Civil Engineering and Maintenance Portfolio Holder;

(d)   report of Community Wellbeing Portfolio Holder (attached);

(e)   report of Customer Services, Media, Communications and ICT Portfolio Holder;

(f)     report of Environmental Protection Portfolio Holder;

(g)   report of Finance, Performance Management and Corporate Support Services Portfolio Holder;

(h)   report of Housing Portfolio Holder (attached);

(i)      report of Leisure and Young People Portfolio Holder;

(j)      report of Planning and Economic Development Portfolio Holder (attached).

The Council received reports from the Leader, the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the Community Wellbeing Portfolio Holder, the Environmental Protection Portfolio Holder, the Housing Portfolio Holder, the Leisure and Young People Portfolio Holder and the Planning and Economic Development Portfolio Holder.

By leave of the Council, the Environmental Protection Portfolio Holder drew attention to amendments to her report.

Council Procedure Rule 10.6 provides for questions by any member of the Council to the Leader, Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee or any Portfolio Holder, without notice on:

(i)   reports under item 5 above; or

(ii)  any other matter of a non operational character in relation to the powers and  duties of the Council or which affects all or part of the District or some or all of  its inhabitants.

Council Procedure Rule 10.7 provides that answers to questions without notice may take the form of:

(a)   direct oral answer from the Leader or, at the request of the Leader, from another member of the Cabinet;

(b)    direct oral answer from the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee or, at their request, from another member dealing with that issue as part of an Overview and Scrutiny review;

(c)    where the desired information is in a publication of the Council or other published work, a reference to that publication;

(d) where the reply cannot conveniently be given orally, a written answer circulated later to the questioner; or

(e)  where the question relates to an operational matter, the Leader, Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee  or a member of the Cabinet will request that a response be given direct to the questioner by the relevant Chief Officer.

In accordance with the Council Procedure Rule 10.8, a time limit of twenty minutes is set for questions. Any question not dealt with within the time available will receive a written reply.

A protocol for determining the number of questions each Group/individual member is entitled to ask is being developed but is not available for this meeting and the Chairman will determine the process to be adopted depending on the number of questions asked.

(a)        Anti-Social Behaviour in Loughton

By Councillor S Murray to Councillor Ms S Stavrou, Portfolio Holder for Community Wellbeing

Having regard to your report on the crime reduction initiative at Limes Farm, Chigwell, would you comment on the continued police failure to deal with anti-social behaviour in the Loughton Roding Ward and the fact that it is impossible to contact Inspector Morrissey in order to arrange for a meeting with local residents?

Response by Councillor Ms S Stavrou, Portfolio Holder for Community Wellbeing

I cannot control or direct the Police.  I work with the Crime Reduction Panel which includes police representatives and we are all committed to securing a reduction in crime and disorder.  I appreciate your frustration about a perceived lack of progress and the fact that information which of necessity is restricted is not relayed to you as quickly as you would like.  However, it is proposed that focus groups will be established in the New Year to tackle hotspots throughout the District.  These will involve the Crime Reduction Panel, Police, District and Parish Councillors, residents and others who will all be encouraged to play an active part.

I cannot comment on the accessibility of police officers.

(b)            Tenant Satisfaction Survey

By Councillor Mrs L Wagland to Councillor D Stallan, Portfolio Holder for Housing

I am impressed by the levels of the Tenant Satisfaction Survey 2006 but I do feel that it is important for satisfaction to go hand in hand with the involvement of tenants; the only disappointing result is that only 67% of tenants felt that the Council took account of their views and having regard to this could the Portfolio Holder advise what steps are to be taken to improve the position?

Response by Councillor D Stallan, Portfolio Holder for Housing

I am also happy to see the results of the Survey but share the disappointment that only 67% of tenants felt that the Council took account of their views, especially since we have a number of initiatives aimed at involving tenants in the management of their homes; these include having a dedicated Tenant Participation Officer, a successful Tenants and Leaseholders Federation which consults with myself and senior housing officers, a number of recognised Tenants Associations in the District, a Leaseholders Association, and a Sheltered Housing Forum. We are also in the process of setting up a Rural Tenants Forum; we have a district-wide Tenants Participation Agreement. However, in response to the Tenant Satisfaction Survey findings, a report will be submitted to the Housing Scrutiny Panel in the New Year (following receipt of recommendations from the National Housing Forum) which will suggest that a small scale tenants survey be undertaken within the next 12 months in order to ask tenants if they feel the Council should be doing more to take account of their views.

(c)        Public Consultation on Waste Management Contract

By Councillor Mrs P Smith to Councillor S Metcalfe, Portfolio Holder for Customer Services, Media, Communications and ICT

Would the Portfolio Holder advise  ...  view the full minutes text for item 60.

(Leader of the Council) To consider the attached report.

The Leader of the Council presented a report summarising the White Paper and seeking decisions in relation to unitary status and an enhanced two-tier structure.

Members noted that local authorities in shire areas had been invited to make proposals for unitary local government that:

(a)            enhanced strategic leadership, neighbourhood empowerment, value for money and equity;

(b)            commanded a broad cross-section of support; and

(c)        were affordable, represented value for money and met any costs of change from councils’ existing resources.

Proposals would also need to reflect the diverse communities which might be found in the area of a proposed unitary ranging, for example, from small villages, through market towns, to a major urban centre with its own neighbourhoods.  Proposals would need to show the contribution that councillors, town, parish and community councils, and community forums could make to representing, leading and empowering local communities within the unitary’s area.

The Leader of the Council reported that the deadline for the submission of proposals was 25 January 2007.  Proposals would then be assessed against the criteria, with preliminary decisions by the end of March 2007 and local decisions by July 2007, following consultation with stakeholders.

The Council was advised that if the Council chose not to seek unitary status, either in isolation or in conjunction with other neighbouring authorities, it was still possible that other authorities could put forward proposals which might include the current Epping Forest District as part of a wider unitary authority.

The Leader of the Council advised that even in areas where there were no moves towards creating unitary authorities, the Government expectation was for an enhanced system of two-tier working.  Local authorities would be expected to find new governance arrangements which overcame the risks of confusion, duplication and inefficiency between tiers and could meet the particular challenges faced by small districts with small budgets or tightly constrained boundaries.

The intention of central government was to legislate so that in future there would be three models of executive arrangements in local authorities:

(a)        a directly elected mayor with a four-year term;

(b)        a directly elected executive with a four-year term;

(c)        an indirectly elected leader with a four-year term.

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That for the time being, no proposal be submitted to the Government for the establishment of unitary authority structures covering the Epping Forest District;

            (2)            That for the time being, this Council does not participate in any partnership application on behalf of Essex County Council and all Essex districts for “pathfinder” status in respect of:

            (a)            unified service delivery across the tiers of local government;

            (b)            stronger leadership;

            (c)            effective accountability arrangements;

            (d)            shared “back office” functions and integrated service delivery mechanisms;

            (3)            That the Council reserves its position on proposals for unitary status affecting this District which may arise from outside the Council, with a view to assessing any business case on its merits;

            (4)            That an informal briefing on the White Paper for all members of the Council be held in January 2007;

            (5)            That  ...  view the full minutes text for item 61.

To consider any motions, notice of which has been given under Council Procedure Rule 11.

Motions, if any, will follow if not received in time to be incorporated into the agenda.

(a)   Recycling Targets

      “ That this Council:

(a)   notes the considerable pressure being placed by Central Government to achieve demanding targets for domestic waste recycling;

(b)   notes that Central Government seems less active in prescribing recycling targets in trade waste collection; and

(c)   writes to the relevant Government Minister drawing attention to this inconsistency and seeking urgent consideration of measures which will improve recycling of waste in the commercial sector in line with domestic premises”.

            Mover: Councillor Mrs D Collins

            Seconder: Councillor S Metcalfe

(b)   Whipps Cross Hospital

      “This Council:

(a)   notes the fact that the health and local authorities within the Epping Forest District were not included in the North East London NHS ‘Fit for the Future’ review from the outset;

(b)   welcomes the fact that representatives of the Review Group attended the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 9 November 2006;

(c)   resolves to play a full role in the formal consultation process due to be carried out in early 2007; and

(d)   resolves to provide clear and full evidence to the Review Group explaining the social and health needs of our area as regards Whipps Cross Hospital, stressing the importance this hospital has for many local residents”.

Mover: Councillor S Murray

Seconder: tba

      (c)  Top Management Structure

"That the Council -

(a)  notes that it is now a matter of urgency that the question of the top management structure of the Council is progressed;

(b)      resolves that, in view of the fact that the Council now has an alliance of political groups and it is their responsibility to take the lead on the issue, the Cabinet appoint a Cabinet Committee to consider and make initial recommendations to the Cabinet and the Council in time for the 24 April 2007 Council meeting;

(c)      resolves to disband the existing Top Management Panel and transfer its terms of reference to the new Cabinet Committee subject to a revised deadline of 24 April 2007, namely:

"To investigate a new Council management structure for posts at Head of Service and above and make recommendations by 24 April 2007 for implementation thereafter, which will include HAY evaluation of all posts at this level".

(d)      appoints the following Cabinet members to serve on the proposed Cabinet Committee:

       (to be advised at the meeting);

      (e)  appoints the Leader of the Council to be Chairman of the Panel;

(f)      requires that the new Cabinet Committee shall be open for other Councillors to attend and that the Leader of the Council keep the Council informed at each meeting of progress with this matter.

Mover: Councillor Mrs D Collins

Seconder: Councillor C Whitbread

(a)            Recycling Targets

By leave of the Council, Councillor Mrs D Collins, the mover of the motion, added the words “and prohibiting excessive packaging in supermarkets” to the end of paragraph (b) of the motion.

Amended motion moved by Councillor Mrs D Collins and seconded by Councillor S Metcalfe:

“That this Council:

(a)        notes the considerable pressure being placed by central government to achieve demanding targets for domestic waste recycling;

(b)        notes that central government seems less active in prescribing recycling targets in trade waste collection and prohibiting excessive packaging in supermarkets; and

(c)        writes to the relevant Government Minister drawing attention to this inconsistency and seeking urgent consideration of measures which will improve recycling of waste in the commercial sector in line with domestic premises”.

Carried

Motion as amended ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            That this Council:

            (a)            notes the considerable pressure being placed by central government to achieve demanding targets for domestic waste recycling;

            (b)            notes that central government seems less active in prescribing recycling targets in trade waste collection and prohibiting excessive packaging in supermarkets; and

            (c)            writes to the relevant Government Minister drawing attention to this inconsistency and seeking urgent consideration of measures which will improve recycling of waste in the commercial sector in line with domestic premises.

(b)            Whipps Cross Hospital

Motion moved by Councillor S Murray and seconded by Councillor D Bateman:

“This Council:

(a)        notes the fact that the health and local authorities within the Epping Forest District were not included in the North East London NHS “Fit for the Future” review from the outset;

(b)            welcomes the fact that representatives of the Review Group attended the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 9 November 2006;

(c)            resolves to play a full role in the formal consultation process due to be carried in early 2007; and

(d)            resolves to provide clear and full evidence to the Review Group explaining the social and health needs of our area as regards Whipps Cross Hospital, stressing the importance this hospital has for many local residents.”

Carried

Motion as first moved ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            That this Council:

            (a)            notes the fact that the health and local authorities within the Epping Forest District were not included in the North East London NHS “Fit for the Future” review from the outset;

            (b)            welcomes the fact that representatives of the Review Group attended the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 9 November 2006;

            (c)            resolves to play a full role in the formal consultation process due to be carried in early 2007; and

            (d)            resolves to provide clear and full evidence to the Review Group explaining the social and health needs of our area as regards Whipps Cross hospital, stressing the importance this hospital has for many local residents.

(c)        Top Management Structure

By leave of the Council, Councillor Mrs D Collins, mover of the motion, amended paragraph (f) to read:  “requires that attendance at the new Cabinet Committee by non-members be restricted to Group Leaders or Deputy Group Leaders, that the Council’s Constitution  ...  view the full minutes text for item 62.

To answer questions asked after notice in accordance with the provisions contained in paragraph 10.3 of the Council Procedure Rules of the Constitution on any matter in relation to which the Council has powers or duties or which affects the District:

(a)               Questions to the Chairman of the Council;

(b)              Questions to the Leader of the Council

     (i)       London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games

     Councillor Mrs A Cooper to Councillor Mrs D Collins:

     " Would the Leader of the Council please say what action she and her    Cabinet colleagues are taking to ensure that this Council is fully informed and involved in preparations for the Olympics both in the District, the County of Essex and neighbouring areas?"

(ii)               Road Fatalities

     Councillor Mrs A Cooper to Councillor Mrs Collins:

     “ In the light of recently published figures on road fatalities, would the Leader of the Council be prepared to take up with Essex County Council the situation for this District and ask that they make their first priority when making decisions for our roads.”

(c)               to the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee or

(d)               to any Member of the Cabinet;.

Council Procedure rule 10.4 provides that answers to questions under notice may take the form of:

(a)       direct oral answer;

(b)       where the desired information is in a publication of the Council or other published work, a reference to that publication; or

(c)       where the reply cannot conveniently be given orally, a written answer circulated later to the questioner.

Answers to questions falling within (a) and (b) above will be made available to the member asking the question one hour before the meeting. Answers to questions falling within (c) above will be circulated to all councillors.

Questions, if any, will follow if not received in time to be incorporated into the agenda.

(a)            Questions to the Leader of the Council

(i)            London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games

By Councillor Mrs A Cooper to Councillor Mrs D Collins, Leader of the Council

“Would the Leader of the Council please say what action she and her Cabinet colleagues are taking to ensure that this Council is fully informed and involved in preparations for the Olympics both in the District, the county of Essex and neighbouring areas?”

Response by Councillor Mrs D Collins, Leader of the Council

“Members may be aware that from the outset, Essex has been quick to see the potential sporting, social and economic benefits of the Olympics, and as a county was very pro-active in supporting the London 2012 bid.

Epping Forest has been engaged in the activities of the Essex Working Group for the Olympic Games.  This forum has been chaired by County Councillor Stephen Castle, who has a seat on the Olympic, “Nations and Regions Group”, the body charged by the main Olympic organising committee with promoting and encouraging the games outside of the capital.

An action plan has been developed for Essex, which has identified a wide range of opportunities for local authorities to participate and benefit.  To this end I recently attended the launch event of the plan at Essex University.  I can also report that Councillor Castle is visiting Epping Forest in early January to meet with myself, the Leisure Portfolio Holder and the Head of Leisure Services, to discuss how we can maximise participation and benefit for both local people and businesses.

Members may also be aware that two Olympic events are being held in close proximity to us, namely, mountain biking at South Weald Park, Brentwood and white water canoeing just over the border in Broxbourne.  Both of these events may well have legacy gains for Epping Forest.

Locally, initiatives already identified include possible sites for pre-games training, the potential of North Weald Airfield for access to the main games site, volunteer training opportunities and a possible major celebratory youth festival.  It is hoped to hold a member seminar/briefing early in the new year for those members who would like to find out more.  This will be in addition to regular features in the Members’ Bulletin and press releases to the local media.”

(ii)        Road Fatalities

The Chairman drew attention to the amended wording of this question as set out on the supplementary agenda.

By Councillor Mrs A Cooper to Councillor Mrs D Collins, Leader of the Council

“In the light of recently published figures on road fatalities in Essex, would the Leader of the Council be prepared to take up with Essex County Council the issue to ascertain the impact to this District and ask that they make safety their first priority when making decisions for our roads?”

Response by Councillor Mrs D Collins, Leader of the Council

“This response is based on information received from the County Council.

The number of fatalities in Essex for this year currently stands at 77, of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 63.

To consider the following reports of the Cabinet:

(a)            Leader’s Portfolio – Responsibility for Land and Development Transactions

(Mover:  Councillor Mrs D Collins – Leader of the Council)

The Leader of the Council presented a report which sought to define clearly the Portfolio Holder responsibilities of the Leader of the Council in relation to other Cabinet portfolios.  Councillor Mrs D Collins pointed out that in the final line of recommendation (1) the bracket should be after the word “land” and not as printed.

Report as amended ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That, the responsibilities contained within the Leader’s Portfolio concerning “major development/development proposals affecting the Council’s property portfolio (where necessary in consultation with the Housing Portfolio Holder) but excluding ongoing estate management” be clarified so as to define “major property/development proposals” as those of a value of £1,000,000 or more (excluding any contract relating to HRA schemes of whatever amount which does not involve the purchase or disposal of land);

            (2)            That, in respect of proposals valued below the limit of £1,000,000 which affect the Council’s property portfolio, the definition be extended to require the relevant Portfolio Holder to consult with the Leader of the Council as to whether the Leader wishes to be involved or take responsibility for dealing with the matter;

            (3)            That, in respect of the development or similar proposals which do not affect the Council’s property portfolio directly (but may have significant financial implications for the Council) the same definition set out in (1) and (2) above apply; and

            (4)            That the Council’s Constitution be amended accordingly.

(b)            Gambling Act 2005 – Adoption of Statement of Principles and Consequential Changes to the Licensing System

Councillor Mrs D Collins, Leader of the Council and Chairman of the Cabinet, invited the Environmental Protection Portfolio Holder to present this report of the Cabinet.

(Mover:  Councillor Mrs M Sartin – Environmental Protection Portfolio Holder)

The Portfolio Holder presented a report drawing attention to the need to adopt a Statement of Principles describing how the Council as the new licensing authority would promote the licensing objectives set out in the Act.

Councillor Mrs Sartin advised the Council that the references of 14 December and 15 December 2006 to the approval and publication of the Principles should read 19 December and 20 December 2006 respectively.  She also advised that the references to HM Customs and Excise should read HM Revenue and Customs.

Report as amended ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            That the Statement of Principles made under the Gambling Act 2005, as amended, be adopted.

(c)            Capital Strategy

Councillor Mrs D Collins, Leader of the Council and Chairman of the Cabinet, invited the Finance, Performance Management and Corporate Support Services Portfolio Holder to present this report of the Cabinet.

(Mover:  Councillor J Knapman – Finance, Performance Management and Corporate Support Services Portfolio Holder)

The Portfolio Holder submitted a draft Capital Strategy 2006-2011 for approval.

Report as first moved ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            That the draft Capital Strategy 2006-2011 be approved.

To consider the following report of Overview and Scrutiny:

(a)   Cabinet Quorum

(a)            Cabinet Quorum

(Mover:  Councillor R Morgan – Chairman of Overview and Scrutiny Committee)

Councillor R Morgan presented a report proposing changes to the Council’s Constitution in order to ensure protection of the Cabinet quorum.

Report as first moved ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That the procedure for protecting the Cabinet quorum set out in the Appendix to these minutes be approved; and

            (2)            That the procedure be published in the Council’s Constitution.

(b)            Review of Area Plans Sub-Committees

(Mover:  Councillor R Morgan – Chairman of Overview and Scrutiny Committee)

Councillor R Morgan presented a report proposing changes to the pattern of Area Plans Sub-Committees following an in-depth review by the Standing Scrutiny Panel on the Constitution and Member Services.

Members noted that the Chairman of the Council had determined in accordance with Section 100B(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 and paragraphs (6) and (24) of the Council Procedure Rules that this report be considered at this meeting in order that the question of Area Plans Sub-Committees could be resolved in time for the next Council year.

First amendment moved by Councillor Mrs D Collins and seconded by Councillor C Whitbread:

“That recommendation (5) be amended to read “That these changes take effect from 1 February 2007”.

Carried

Second amendment moved by Councillor J Knapman and seconded by Councillor A Lee:

“That recommendation (2) be amended to read “That Area Plans Sub-Committee ‘A’ remain as at present except that the membership be increased to 25 members, subject to further review of the method of operation by that Sub-Committee and, if necessary, the Council”.

Carried

On the requisition of five members under paragraph 15.4 of the Council Procedure Rules a recorded vote was taken on recommendation (4) (That the present Area Sub-Committees ‘B’ and ‘C’ be combined) and there voted:

For the recommendation: (23) – namely:  Councillors D Bateman, K Chana, R Church, M Cohen, M Colling, Mrs D Collins, R D’Souza, A Green, Mrs A Grigg, Mrs H Harding, P McMillan, S Metcalfe, G Mohindra, R Morgan, Mrs S Perry, B Sandler, Mrs M Sartin, Mrs P Smith, D Stallan, Ms S-A Stavrou, Mrs L Wagland, C Whitbread, J Wyatt

Against the recommendation:  (19) - namely:  Councillors K Angold-Stephens, Mrs D Borton, Mrs P Brooks, Mrs S Clapp, Mrs A Cooper, R Frankel, P Gode, Mrs A Haigh, D Jacobs, D Kelly, R Law, S Murray, Mrs C Pond, Mrs P K Rush, P Spencer, P Turpin, Mrs J H Whitehouse, J M Whitehouse, K Wright

Abstentions:  (7) – namely:  Councillors R Haines, P House, J Knapman, A Lee, J Markham, Mrs P H Richardson, T Richardson

Carried

The Chairman sought clarification of the date of implementation of the changes in relation to Area Plans Sub-Committee ‘A’ having regard to the need for a further review of the method of operation. The Council agreed that the implementation date of 1 February 2007 would need to be subject to the further review of Area Plans Sub-Committee ‘A’.

Report as amended ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:  ...  view the full minutes text for item 65.

(Councillor S Metcalfe) To consider the attached report.

(Mover:  Councillor S Metcalfe – Customers Services, Media, Communications and ICT Portfolio Holder)

The Portfolio Holder reported on the online publication of the e-annual report for 2005/6 including public consultation on the long-term demand for the publication of future annual reports.

Report as first moved ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That the on-line publication of the e-annual report for 2005/06 be noted; and

            (2)            That a report be submitted to Council in 2007 on the outcome of public consultation on the long-term demand for publication of future annual reports.

(Monitoring Officer) To consider the attached report.

The Council considered a report of the Monitoring Officer on the appointment of an independent member to replace one of the existing three independent members who had indicated that he did not wish to seek reappointment when his current three-year term of office expired in May 2007.

Amendment moved by Councillor Mrs D Collins and seconded by Councillor C Whitbread:

“That recommendation (1) be amended to read:  “That Councillors Mrs D Borton, Mrs D Collins and Mrs P Smith together with two nominations from political groups other than the Conservative and Independent Groups be appointed to form a Standards Committee Selection Panel”.

Carried

The Council considered the nominations of Councillors S Murray and Mrs J H Whitehouse to fill the two remaining places on the Selection Panel.

Report as amended ADOPTED

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That Councillors Mrs D Borton, Mrs D Collins, S Murray, Mrs P Smith and Mrs J H Whitehouse be appointed to form a Standards Committee Selection Panel;

            (2)            That the Selection Panel be authorised to:

            (a)            agree a shortlist of applicants for interview for the independent member vacancy on the Standards Committee which will arise in May 2007;

            (b)            interview the persons shortlisted; and

            (c)            make recommendations to the Council on an appointment;

            (3)            That the Monitoring Officer be authorised to:

            (a)            place an advertisement in a local newspaper inviting applications;

            (b)            prepare an applicant’s pack, including application form, a job description, person specification and terms of reference of the committee; and

            (c)            make arrangements for suitable training of the new member when appointed.

Recommendation:

To nominate a member to serve on the proposed Joint Scrutiny Review Committee of ‘Fit for the Future’ a review of Health Services in North East London

(Joint Chief Executive (Community)). At its last meeting the Overview and Scrutiny Committee received a report on the public concerns about possible future changes to service levels at Whipps Cross University Hospital. They noted that Kings Georges Hospital, Ilford and Oldchurch Hospital, Romford hospital (which also serves the District) are all now subject to a programme review being led by the North East London Strategic Health Authority. The “Fit for the Future” review is being undertaken to look at different ways of delivering better health and social care, close to home and at the best value for taxpayers.

The Council has been approached by Havering Borough Council seeking involvement in a Joint Scrutiny Review with the four London Boroughs principally affected by the proposals: Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest. Subject to formal agreement, the Council is being offered one seat on the review committee.

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee have expressed the view that this offer should be accepted and recommend an appointment to the Council accordingly.

Members considered a recommendation of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee that the Council nominate a member to serve on a proposed Joint Scrutiny Review Committee together with representatives of four London Borough Councils to review health services in North East London.

            RESOLVED:

            (1)            That Councillor B Sandler be nominated to serve on the proposed Joint Scrutiny Review Committee of “Fit for the Future”, a review of health services in North East London; and

            (2)            That, subject to the approval of the partnership, Councillor R Church be nominated as a deputy to attend meetings in the absence of Councillor Sandler.

To consider the attached item.

The members were informed that the Council had received details of the next step in review of hospital and community services from the East of England Strategic Health Authority.  This related to all hospitals and community services in the East of England including Princess Alexandra in Harlow.  The Council considered the appointment of member representatives to attend a stakeholder event on 22 January 2007.

The Chairman of the Council had determined in accordance with Section 100(B)(4)(b) of the Local Government Act 1972 together with paragraphs (6) and (24) of the Council’s Procedure Rules that this matter be submitted to this meeting as it was the only meeting of the Council before the event.

            RESOLVED:

            That Councillors B Sandler and R Church be appointed to represent the Council at a stakeholder event to be held on 22 January 2007.

              Recommendation:

              To consider the nomination of one or two members to join the Management Board of the Epping Forest Children and Young People’s Partnership.

(Joint Chief Executive (Community Services)) The Epping Forest Children and Young People’s Partnership (CYPSP) has recently agreed a new structure to help it achieve its objectives.

CYPSP is establishing a Management Board of senior representatives from key partner agencies to help lead and drive the process of working towards much greater alignment of commissioning and delivery of children’s services across the key agencies. It is hoped that this will bring benefits of improved outcomes for children and cost efficiency for all the agencies involved.

The Council’s Joint Chief Executive (Community Services) has been invited to be a member of the Management Board and the Council has been asked to nominate one or two members to join the Board. Initially, meetings will be held at monthly intervals on the second Monday in the month from 2-4 pm at the Civic Offices. The first meeting is scheduled for 10 January 2007.

The invitation follows a presentation to the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 31 August 2006 by Lonica VanClay, the Local Commissioner for Children and Young People’s Services for the District.

(Background Papers: Letter dated 27 November 2006 from the Chair of CYPSP, full outline of the new CYPSP structure and membership, terms of reference and draft schedule of meetings for 2007).

The Council was advised that the Epping Forest Children and Young People’s Partnership (CYPSP) had recently agreed a new structure to help it achieve its objectives.  CYPSP was establishing a Management Board of senior representatives from key partner agencies to help lead and drive the process of working towards much greater alignment of commissioning and delivery of children’s services across the key agencies.

The Council’s Joint Chief Executive (Community Services) had been invited to be a member of the Management Board and the Council had been asked to nominate one or two members to join the Board.

            RESOLVED:

            That Councillors Mrs A Grigg and Mrs A Haigh be nominated to join the Management Board of the Epping Forest Children and Young People’s Partnership.

To receive any reports, ask questions and receive answers on the business of joint arrangements and external organisations.

The Leader of the Council has indicated that she will give an oral report on recent meetings of the Essex Local Government Association.

There were no reports for consideration under this heading.  The Leader of the Council advised that the business discussed at recent meetings of the Essex Local Government Association had been reported earlier at this meeting.