Agenda, decisions and minutes

The were no apologies for absence received.

Audio recording – 30 seconds

Before the meeting proceeded, the Chair paid tribute to Councillor Judi Billing MBE following her death on the 24 November 2022. Councillor Ian Albert also provided a tribute. Following this, the Chair requested that Members present join in a minute silence in remembrance.

There were no apologies for absence received.

To take as read and approve as a true record the minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on the 13 September, 25 October and 2 November 2022.

RESOLVED: That the Minutes of the meeting held on the 13 September 2022, 25 October 2022 and 2 November 2022 were approved as a true record of the meeting and signed by the Chair.

Audio Recording – 6 minutes 06 seconds

Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg, as Chair, proposed and Councillor Ian Albert seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That the Minutes of the meeting held on the 13 September 2022, 25 October 2022 and 2 November 2022 were approved as a true record of the meeting and signed by the Chair.

Members should notify the Chair of other business which they wish to be discussed at the end of either Part I or Part II business set out in the agenda. They must state the circumstances which they consider justify the business being considered as a matter of urgency.

The Chair will decide whether any item(s) raised will be considered.

There was no other business.

Audio recording – 7 minutes 10 seconds

There was no other business notified.

Climate Emergency

The Council has declared a climate emergency and is committed to achieving a target of zero carbon emissions by 2030 and helping local people and businesses to reduce their own carbon emissions.

A Cabinet Panel on the Environment has been established to engage with local people on matters relating to the climate emergency and advise the council on how to achieve these climate change objectives. A Climate Change Implementation group of councillors and council officers meets regularly to produce plans and monitor progress. Actions taken or currently underway include switching to green energy, incentives for low emission taxis, expanding tree planting and working to cut food waste.

In addition the council is a member of the Hertfordshire Climate Change and Sustainability Partnership, working with other councils across Hertfordshire to reduce the county’s carbon emissions and climate impact.

The Council’s dedicated webpage on Climate Change includes details of the council’s climate change strategy, the work of the Cabinet Panel on the Environment and a monthly briefing on progress.

Declarations of Interest

Members are reminded that any declarations of interest in respect of any business set out in the agenda, should be declared as either a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest or Declarable Interest and are required to notify the Chair of the nature of any interest declared at the commencement of the relevant item on the agenda. Members declaring a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest must withdraw from the meeting for the duration of the item. Members declaring a Declarable Interest, wishing to exercise a ‘Councillor Speaking Right’, must declare this at the same time as the interest, move to the public area before speaking to the item and then must leave the room before the debate and vote.

(1)       The Chair advised that, in accordance with Council Policy, the meeting would be audio recorded.

(2)       Members were reminded that this Council had declared a Climate Emergency. This was a serious decision and meant that, as this was an emergency, all of us, officers and Members had that in mind as we carried out our various roles and tasks for the benefit of our District.

(3)       The Chair drew attention to the item on the agenda front pages regarding Declarations of Interest and reminded Members that, in line with the Code of Conduct, any Declarations of Interest needed to be declared immediately prior to the item in question.

(4)       A comfort break would be taken at a suitable time in proceedings, if required.

Audio recording – 7 minutes 40 seconds

(1)       The Chair advised that, in accordance with Council Policy, the meeting would be audio recorded.

(2)       Members were reminded that this Council had declared a Climate Emergency. This was a serious decision and meant that, as this was an emergency, all of us, officers and Members had that in mind as we carried out our various roles and tasks for the benefit of our District.

(3)       The Chair drew attention to the item on the agenda front pages regarding Declarations of Interest and reminded Members that, in line with the Code of Conduct, any Declarations of Interest needed to be declared immediately prior to the item in question.

(4)       A comfort break would be taken at a suitable time in proceedings, if required.

To receive petitions, comments and questions from the public.

There was no public participation.

Audio recording – 8 minutes 33 seconds

There was no public participation.

Any Items referred from other committees will be circulated as soon as they are available.

The Chair advised that the items referred from Finance, Audit and Risk Committee and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee would be taken with the respective items on the agenda.  

Audio recording – 8 minutes 39 seconds

The Chair advised that the items referred from Finance, Audit and Risk Committee and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee would be taken with the respective items on the agenda.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – CUSTOMERS

To consider the proposed Council Tax Reduction Scheme for 2023/2024.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted that a full review of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme had taken place and that consultation with the public and Major Precepting Authorities had taken place.

(2)  Noted the aim of the review had been to introduce a new scheme that will:

a.    enable us to increase the overall level of support for the lowest income households;

b.    reduce the administrative burden placed on the Council following the introduction of Universal Credit and;

c.     make the scheme easier for our customers to understand and calculate entitlement.

(3)  Noted that the new scheme may increase the costs from those of the current scheme, any increase will be split between the Council and its Major Precepting Authorities. The Council’s share is expected to be around 12.5%.

REFERRED TO COUNCIL: That Cabinet

(1)  Recommended to Council that a new banded scheme for working age applicants is adopted from 01 April 2023.

(2)  Recommended to Council the use of the Council Tax Hardship Grant to fund a discretionary scheme to provide additional transitional support where appropriate and that decisions regarding Discretionary support are delegated to the Service Director Customers in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and IT.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: To ensure that the Council has a fit for purpose Council Tax Reduction Scheme that:

·         Provides the greatest support to the lowest income households;

·         Reduces the administrative burden that has been placed on the Council since the introduction of Universal Credit (UC);

·         Is simple to understand, meaning that customers will be able to calculate entitlement and assess the impact of potential changes in circumstances.

Audio recording – 8 minutes 57 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Council Tax Reduction Scheme 2023/2024’ and advised of the following:

·         Thanked the relevant Officers at the Council who had put work into this scheme.

·         It proposed to increase the entitlement to over 1500 people, particularly those in the most vulnerable groups.

·         There had been comments and input provided by Citizens Advice and residents during consultation.

·         The important aspect would be managing the transition to the new scheme.

·         Would continue to look at the discretionary support scheme for individual residents on a case by case basis.

David Airey, a consultant from ACS, advised that:

·         ACS provided support to local authorities and the main areas of this was Council Tax reduction.

·         Council Tax reduction was introduced in 2013 and all schemes run by local authorities needed to be updated due to the rollout of Universal Credit.

·         This proposal would simplify the working age scheme and offer further support to residents.

·         By 2023/24 it was expected that the majority of local authorities would be transferred across to a similar working age scheme.

·         The pension age scheme is prescribed by the government and therefore cannot be changed.

The Chair of Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, Councillor Terry Tyler, presented the referral on this item and noted that there was some debate at the meeting, specifically with some concerns being raised about the transition. However, overall the Committee was content with the proposal and supportive of the scheme and approved the recommendations.

In response to a question from Councillor Ruth Brown, the Revenues Manager advised that this scheme would have a bearing on Parish Councils, but this would only be a small amount. Councillor Ian Albert noted that £38k had been allocated to support Parish Councils in the budget.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted that a full review of the Council Tax Reduction Scheme had taken place and that consultation with the public and Major Precepting Authorities had taken place.

(2)  Noted the aim of the review had been to introduce a new scheme that will:

a.    enable us to increase the overall level of support for the lowest income households;

b.    reduce the administrative burden placed on the Council following the introduction of Universal Credit and;

c.     make the scheme easier for our customers to understand and calculate entitlement.

(3)  Noted that the new scheme may increase the costs from those of the current scheme, any increase will be split between the Council and its Major Precepting Authorities. The Council’s share is expected to be around 12.5%.

REFERRED TO COUNCIL: That Cabinet

(1)  Recommended to Council that a new banded scheme for working age applicants is adopted from 01 April 2023.

(2)  Recommended to Council the use of the Council Tax Hardship Grant to fund a discretionary scheme to provide additional transitional support where appropriate and that decisions regarding Discretionary support  ...  view the full minutes text for item 141.

REPORT OF THE POLICY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

This report proposes a refreshed version of the Climate Change Strategy that was originally adopted in 2020 and amended in 2021. This refreshed version is The Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Adopted the following documents, taking into consideration the additional actions proposed under each priority area:

·         Appendix 1 Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027

·         Appendix A Proposed Actions

·         Appendix B Achievements

(2)  Reflects on the Climate Change Strategy for contracted services when considering the revision of the Procurement Policy.

REASON FOR DECISION: In 2019, the Council passed a motion to declare a Climate Emergency. In this motion the Council pledged their commitment to do everything within their power to become carbon neutral by 2030. This iteration of the Strategy has been revised to reflect the latest legislation, research, and best practice; and includes additional proposed actions under each priority area to respond to gaps we have identified. Appendix B Achievements lays out progress against each action.

Audio recording – 16 minutes 58 seconds

The Executive Member for the Environment and Leisure presented the report entitled ‘Climate Change strategy 2022-2027’ and advised of the following:

·         This was an update to the previous strategy, taking into account changes in policy locally and nationally.

·         There were no changes to the objectives within the report and it did not change the actions to be taken to find savings on emissions.

·         The report had been updated to highlight the progress made and what had been achieved. It also added further requirements on the Council as technology, policy and requirements change.

The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee presented the referral on this item and noted:

·         There had been a good level of debate and discussion on this item, with lots of information provided by the Executive Member.

·         It was interesting to see that the emissions of the main Council contractors would be included as part of our targets and this was felt to be a positive concept, as it would have been easy to omit these from the calculations to reduce the emissions of the Council.

·         The recommendations in the report were approved, with an additional recommendation included to request that Cabinet reflect this policy when revising and updating the Contract Procurement Policy at a later Cabinet meeting.

In response to a comment from Councillor Ruth Brown that this policy felt more ambitious than the previous version, the Executive Member noted that good progress had been made on assessing the current situation and what needed to be done to achieve goals. This means that areas to target for offsetting emissions had been identified and it just left questions as to when and how these would be achieved. The report offered a comprehensive overview of the progress made to date.

Councillor Steve Jarvis proposed and Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Adopted the following documents, taking into consideration the additional actions proposed under each priority area:

·         Appendix 1 Climate Change Strategy 2022-2027

·         Appendix A Proposed Actions

·         Appendix B Achievements

(2)  Reflects on the Climate Change Strategy for contracted services when considering the revision of the Procurement Policy.

REASON FOR DECISION: In 2019, the Council passed a motion to declare a Climate Emergency. In this motion the Council pledged their commitment to do everything within their power to become carbon neutral by 2030. This iteration of the Strategy has been revised to reflect the latest legislation, research, and best practice; and includes additional proposed actions under each priority area to respond to gaps we have identified. Appendix B Achievements lays out progress against each action.

REPORT OF THE POLICY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

This report proposes a refreshed Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy and revised Equality objectives to comply with the specific duty to publish one or more as set out by the Public Sector Equality Duty 2010.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Approved the Council’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2022-2027 as attached at Appendix A, with the removal of the Glossary document attached as Appendix C in the report.

(2)  Approved the Equality objectives as set out below:

1.    Work with young people through youth engagement to make it easier for them to have their voices heard in local decision-making and democracy.

2.    Improve our engagement with marginalised, seldom heard, and new communities to make it easier for them to participate in local decision-making and democracy, and to have their views and experiences heard by the council.

3.    Improve our understanding of broader EDI issues and their impacts, such as neurodiversity and economic disadvantage; as well as the intersections between inequalities, using our Inclusion Group as a channel.

4.    Achieve consistency in measuring the likely equality impacts of our emerging policies and services.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The previous Corporate Equality Strategy (2017) was revised to ensure consistency with the latest public sector equality legislation and obligations. The refresh of the Strategy reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to fulfil our legal obligations as set out in the Equality Act and to set out the new equality objectives.

Audio recording – 21 minutes 45 seconds

The Chair noted that the introductory foreword to the report should stand as the last piece of work of the late Councillor Judi Billing MBC. It was noted that some Councillors around the country did not want policies like this adopted, as it was deemed ‘woke’, but this was about a duty of care towards communities represented.

The Service Director – Legal and Community presented the report entitled ‘Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2022-27’ and advised of the following:

·         There had been concerns raised at Overview and Scrutiny Committee about certain terms included within the glossary.

·         Officers had included the glossary as a helpful document to understand terms around the topic and it was not meant to cause offence.

·         In order to prevent it becoming a live document to be managed by Officers, it would be better to remove the glossary completely from the strategy.

The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee presented the referral on this item and noted:

·         The Committee was overall supportive, but there were concerns raised about terms included, specifically regarding the use of ‘people of colour’ in relation to BME/BAME without explanation.

·         Some Members felt this inclusion on the glossary was not appropriate.

·         The Committee made an amendment to recommendations that would have made the glossary a live document to be updated as terminology changed, but the suggested removal by the Service Director would be more suitable, as it would be difficult to maintain a live glossary.

The Chair thanked the Overview and Scrutiny Chair for his comments and agreed that the removal of the glossary from the strategy would be best.

In response to a question from Councillor Ruth Brown, the Service Director advised that she was unsure whether a named lead Officer had been included within the strategy, but the Policy and Community Engagement Manager would be the main point of contact for dealing with this policy.

Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg, as Chair, proposed and Councillor Keith Hoskins seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Approved the Council’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2022-2027 as attached at Appendix A, with the removal of the Glossary document attached as Appendix C in the report.

(2)  Approved the Equality objectives as set out below:

1.    Work with young people through youth engagement to make it easier for them to have their voices heard in local decision-making and democracy.

2.    Improve our engagement with marginalised, seldom heard, and new communities to make it easier for them to participate in local decision-making and democracy, and to have their views and experiences heard by the council.

3.    Improve our understanding of broader EDI issues and their impacts, such as neurodiversity and economic disadvantage; as well as the intersections between inequalities, using our Inclusion Group as a channel.

4.    Achieve consistency in measuring the likely equality impacts of our emerging policies and services.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The previous Corporate Equality Strategy (2017) was revised to ensure consistency with the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 143.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – REGULATORY

This report details proposals for the allocation of this funding for specialist services and interventions for vulnerable single homeless people.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Approved the allocation of Homelessness Prevention Grant funding (2022/23) as follows:

a)    Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (in principle, up to 73k, with the Cabinet being asked to consider the details of the scheme at the appropriate time);

b)    To offset Department of Work and Pensions Housing Benefit subsidy loss incurred between April 2022 and the end of January 2023 (and officers be asked to return to the Cabinet on 31 January 2023 to confirm this amount and the options for the management of subsidy loss going forward);

c)    To secure hotel provision over the winter months (£36k).

(2)  Approved the allocation of Rough Sleeping Initiative funding for the financial years 2022/23, 2023/24 and 2024/25 as follows:

a)    Haven First (£78k, £77.4k and £68.2k);

b)    Keystage Housing (£86.2k, £85.6k and £75.4k).

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

(1)  There is an urgent need for high quality accommodation-based support services for single homeless people in the district. Adopting the recommendations at 2.1 – 2.2 would secure the provision of these services for the next few years, which is in line with the priorities set out in the Council’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, contained within the Council’s Housing Strategy 2019-2024.

(2)  The support services outlined in this report are crucial to enable single homeless people with complex needs to have the opportunity to live independent lives and ending the cycle of repeated homelessness.

Audio recording – 29 minutes 08 seconds

The Executive Member for Housing and Environmental Health presented the report entitled ‘Allocation of DLUHC Homelessness Grant’ and advised of the following:

·         An addendum to the report had been circulated, which updated on the Metropolitan Thames Valley Homes scheme and the subsidy loss regarding Lord Lister.

·         This would allow Cabinet to approve funding in principle for this type of accommodation and then consider the details of the scheme at a later date. .

·         Keystage have confirmed that they are evaluating their position which is hoped would reduce the subsidy loss to the Council.

·         The report details the allocation of funding to specialist services to support single homeless people, and specifically those with complex needs which had risen over recent years.

·         This funding would help to address issues faced by homeless people.

·         It would help to support residents to live independently, end homelessness and was in line with Council strategies for homelessness.

Councillor Sean Prendergast proposed and Councillor Ruth Brown seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Approved the allocation of Homelessness Prevention Grant funding (2022/23) as follows:

a)    Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (in principle, up to 73k, with the Cabinet being asked to consider the details of the scheme at the appropriate time);

b)    To offset Department of Work and Pensions Housing Benefit subsidy loss incurred between April 2022 and the end of January 2023 (and officers be asked to return to the Cabinet on 31 January 2023 to confirm this amount and the options for the management of subsidy loss going forward);

c)    To secure hotel provision over the winter months (£36k).

(2)  Approved the allocation of Rough Sleeping Initiative funding for the financial years 2022/23, 2023/24 and 2024/25 as follows:

a)    Haven First (£78k, £77.4k and £68.2k);

b)    Keystage Housing (£86.2k, £85.6k and £75.4k).

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

(1)  There is an urgent need for high quality accommodation-based support services for single homeless people in the district. Adopting the recommendations would secure the provision of these services for the next few years, which is in line with the priorities set out in the Council’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, contained within the Council’s Housing Strategy 2019-2024.

(2)  The support services outlined in this report are crucial to enable single homeless people with complex needs to have the opportunity to live independent lives and ending the cycle of repeated homelessness.

INFORMATION NOTE OF THE STRATEGIC HOUSING MANAGER

To provide Cabinet with an update on refugee resettlement in the district.

The Executive Member for Housing and Environmental Health presented the Information Note entitled ‘Update of Refugee Resettlements’.

Audio recording – 32 minutes 10 seconds

The Executive Member for Housing and Environmental Health presented the Information Note entitled ‘Update on Refugee Resettlements’, and advised of the following:

·         Council had successfully resettled 10 Syrian families, supporting 50 people to relocate within the district.

·         The Syrian scheme had been paused during the pandemic, but it had now restarted and the Council had acquired housing association houses to support two families of five.

·         However, only one Syrian family could be identified by the Home Office and therefore the other home would be provided to an Afghan family.

·         The Council was working with others to ensure pressures from Ukrainian refugees are alleviated as far as possible.

·         Overall there was a lot of support given by the Council to refugees and Members should be proud. 

REPORT OF THE CULTURE AND FACILITIES MANAGER

This report requests approval and adoption of the new North Herts Museum Strategy 2022 – 2026

RESOLVED:

(1)  That the current draft of the Museum Strategy 2022 - 2026 was approved.

(2)   That Cabinet adopted the strategy for the years 2022 – 2026.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The previous Arts, Museums and Heritage Strategy expired some years ago and a new strategy will guide the ambitions of the museum service in the years ahead.

Audio recording – 33 minutes 57 seconds

The Executive Member for Enterprise and Arts presented the report entitled ‘North Herts Museum Strategy 2022-2026’ and advised of the following:

·         This was the first Museum Strategy update for 10 years, since the reorganisation of museum services in North Herts.

·         It sets out the four aims the museum hoped to achieve.

·         Commended Officers for the work put into the strategy.

The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny presented the referral on this item and advised that the Committee had approved the recommendations. He also noted that the number of responses to the consultation on this strategy had been very good.

The Chair noted that the positive level of engagement on this strategy could form a learning point for future consultation and communication.

Councillor Keith Hoskins proposed and Councillor Ian Albert seconded and, following a vote, it was: 

RESOLVED:

(1)  That the current draft of the Museum Strategy 2022 - 2026 was approved.

(2)   That Cabinet adopted the strategy for the years 2022 – 2026.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The previous Arts, Museums and Heritage Strategy expired some years ago and a new strategy will guide the ambitions of the museum service in the years ahead.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

To provide the Committee with an update on the effectiveness of the Risk Management Governance arrangements at North Herts Council.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted the update and any recommendations from FARC on the Half Yearly Risk Management update.

(2)  Approved the changes and any associated recommendations from FARC on the review of the Risk Management Framework.

(3)  Commented on and noted recommendations from FARC on the type of Risk Management Training they would like to see going forward.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

(1)  The responsibility for ensuring the management of risks is that of Cabinet.

(2)  This Committee has responsibility to monitor the effective development and operation of Risk Management.

Audio recording – 35 minutes 57 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Half Yearly Report on Risk Management’ and advised of the following:

·         The comments made at Finance, Audit and Risk on this item had been noted and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee consider risk as part of the Council Delivery Plan.

·         The aim of this was to ensure that the Council was managing risk effectively.

·         It was important that all Members were given suitable risk management training.

The Chair of Finance, Audit and Risk Committee presented the referral on this item and noted:

·         There was a good debate on this at the meeting and overall the Committee were supportive.

·         Members of the Committee would be receiving training on Pentana and it was hoped this could be extended to all Members.

·         Finance, Audit and Risk and Overview and Scrutiny Committee Members could attend the quarterly risk management group, which took place during the daytime.

·         There was concern raised to the why the risk for the Empty House strategy had decreased in likelihood but has increased impact. The Service Director – Resources would investigate and confirm with the Committee, as it was expected this was an error.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Steve Jarvis seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted the update and any recommendations from FARC on the Half Yearly Risk Management update.

(2)  Approved the changes and any associated recommendations from FARC on the review of the Risk Management Framework.

(3)  Commented on and noted recommendations from FARC on the type of Risk Management Training they would like to see going forward.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

(1)  The responsibility for ensuring the management of risks is that of Cabinet.

(2)  This Committee has responsibility to monitor the effective development and operation of Risk Management.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

For Cabinet to consider the latest forecasts in relation to funding, income and expenditure in relation to the revenue budget for 2023/24.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted the latest funding forecasts for 2023/24 onwards and the significant uncertainty that still remains.

(2)  Confirmed that it is necessary to increase Council Tax by 3% (the maximum amount now allowed without a local referendum) as this is what will be assumed by Government in determining the Business Rates that the Council can retain.

(3)  Confirmed that the Council should be part of a Business Rate pool in 2023/24, but delegates to the Service Director: Resources, in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and IT, authority to withdraw from the pooling arrangement if there are significant changes that would make it likely that the Council would suffer a financial loss from pooling.

(4)  Noted the comments made at the budget workshops, and comment on the inclusion of the revenue savings and investments in the budget to be brought back for consideration in January, for referral on to Council in February.

(5)  Noted the comments made at the budget workshops, and comment on the inclusion of the capital investments in the Investment Strategy to be brought back for consideration in January, for referral on to Council in February.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: To ensure that all relevant factors are considered in arriving at a proposed budget, Investment Strategy and Council Tax level for 2023/24, to be considered by Full Council on 23 February 2022.

Audio recording – 39 minutes 50 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Draft Budget 2023/23’ and advised of the following:

·         Thanked Officers for the work put into this and to Members for the suggestions and comments made at the workshops.

·         There had been consideration given to the rise in Council Tax, following the confirmation in the Autumn Statement that it would be increased by 3% without a referendum.

·         Therefore it had been agreed to raise Council Tax by 3% in order to protect services offered.

·         The Council Tax Reduction Scheme would mean that vulnerable residents were protected from this rise.

·         Government had confirmed that this rise could take place for two years, 2023/24 and 2024/25, and this had been proposed.

·         There had been no new funding formula or business rate reset planned for the next two years. Overall this was good news for the Council who could continue to collect pooled business rates.

·         All councils would see at least a 3% increase in core spending power, before Council Tax rises.

·         Ultimately, with the increased grants and Council Tax, the Council would be able to offer more flexibility which could be controlled by the Council.

·         Whilst the increase in Council Tax is welcome in terms of income to Council, it was important to recognise the impact this would have on some residents. In spite of the proposed rises, the Council was still predicted to spend around £1m of its reserves.

·         The Council will need to look at how best to use the money to support and help residents through schemes and services offered.

·         Despite the difficult times for residents, the services provided by the Council, such as waste, leisure, recycling and community grants, offer good value for money.

·         Further detail would be provided to Cabinet when the final government grant amounts had been confirmed.

The Chair of Finance, Audit and Risk Committee presented the referral on this item and noted:

·         The Committee had overall supported the recommendations on the draft budget as presented.

·         There had been lots of debate on this and information had been provided by the Service Director – Resources to support this.

·         The latest funding forecasts highlighted that some uncertainty remained.

·         The Committee had confirmed the requirement to raise Council Tax by 3%, the maximum amount allowed.

·         They noted the comments made by Members at the budget workshops.

Councillor Steve Jarvis noted that he was pleased to see funding allocated to extend the opening times of the Letchworth Outdoor pool, following the successful extension this year. He also commented that, while no one wanted to pay more Council Tax, it was important to recognise the situation of those Councils who had not done this and are now in trouble and unable to provide services to residents and it was the most vulnerable most affected by this.

The Chair confirmed that without raising Council Tax the Council would have to draw on reserves and it was wrong that Local Authorities were put in  ...  view the full minutes text for item 148.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

To consider whether the Council should stop providing specific elements of the compliance service at Community Buildings, and therefore the community groups (either their staff or volunteers) would take them on.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Agreed that the Council will stop providing the monthly property compliance tasks (as detailed in paragraph 8.1) to community groups/ buildings (as detailed in paragraph 8.3).

(2)  Agreed that the Council should continue to fund low value repairs in such a way so that community groups/ buildings do not lose out from changes to the way that the compliance contract is expected to operate from February 2023.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The decision helps the Council keep under control the cost of providing property compliance contract. It also leads to reduced vehicle travel and associated environmental benefits. It also reflects that the Council will focus its support (and resources) on providing those property compliance services that require specialist knowledge and training.

Audio recording – 52 minutes 50 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Compliance Contract – Community Buildings’ and advised of the following:

·         Across the district there were a number of Council buildings leased out to be used by the community.

·         The Council currently provided maintenance at these sites, and in some cases these were charged back to the user, but the Council was not required to do this.

·         Some tasks required a professional to complete these, but a series of monthly checks had been identified that could be carried out without professional knowledge or equipment.

·         It was proposed that these tasks be removed from the responsibility of the Council, except those areas which required professional support.

·         Training would be provided where required.

Councillor Ruth Brown noted that the community centres were consulted and there were some concerns raised, but following discussions these have been mostly resolved.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Ruth Brown seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Agreed that the Council will stop providing the monthly property compliance tasks (as detailed in paragraph 8.1) to community groups/ buildings (as detailed in paragraph 8.3).

(2)  Agreed that the Council should continue to fund low value repairs in such a way so that community groups/ buildings do not lose out from changes to the way that the compliance contract is expected to operate from February 2023.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The decision helps the Council keep under control the cost of providing property compliance contract. It also leads to reduced vehicle travel and associated environmental benefits. It also reflects that the Council will focus its support (and resources) on providing those property compliance services that require specialist knowledge and training.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

To seek Cabinet approval to use a single tender process for the award of a contract to HTS Property and Environmental Limited Ltd for a property compliance contract.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet agrees to the use of a single tender (under the Council’s Contract Procurement Rules) for the award of a contract to HTS Property and Environmental Limited Ltd, for a property compliance contract.

REASONS FOR DECISION: It is expected that working with HTS will deliver the following benefits:

·         The proposal is to form a collaborative working partnership that is focused on excellent service delivery and cost control, whilst ensuring the arrangement is sustainable for both parties over the longer term. This should avoid a repeat of the contract failures that have been what has transpired over the last two contracts.

·         HTS have a large directly employed workforce of trade operatives, administration and management staff, who have the skills, knowledge and ability to deliver the works, and already provide similar services to Harlow Council.

·         Elements of the way that the contract is delivered can be developed collaboratively by both parties to ensure the most efficient and cost effective approach.

·         HTS have a supply chain with access to both materials and sub-contractors to support delivery.

·         Whilst not a local North Herts based supplier, HTS’ values are aligned to the North Herts Council’s values, as demonstrated by their social and environmental activities. (see sections 13 and 14 below).

·         Being wholly owned by Harlow Council, any profits that HTS generate are ultimately fed back into providing public services.

Audio recording – 56 minutes 13 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Compliance Contract – Single Tender’ and advised of the following:

·         Building works were currently contracted out by Council are varied.

·         The revised contract would look at building works, such as repairs and maintenance.

·         There was a market engagement activity carried out, however there were few contractors who saw this as an attractive contract.

·         Ultimately this led to discussion with HCS, a company wholly owned by Harlow Council. This led to ongoing negotiations of what a contract would look like and ensuring this offered value for money.

·         The proposals were expected to provide incentives for both the Council and HCS, in accordance with the financial regulations of the Council, but had been referred to Cabinet due to the value of the contract.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Sean Prendergast seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet agrees to the use of a single tender (under the Council’s Contract Procurement Rules) for the award of a contract to HTS Property and Environmental Limited Ltd, for a property compliance contract.

REASONS FOR DECISION: It is expected that working with HTS will deliver the following benefits:

·         The proposal is to form a collaborative working partnership that is focused on excellent service delivery and cost control, whilst ensuring the arrangement is sustainable for both parties over the longer term. This should avoid a repeat of the contract failures that have been what has transpired over the last two contracts.

·         HTS have a large directly employed workforce of trade operatives, administration and management staff, who have the skills, knowledge and ability to deliver the works, and already provide similar services to Harlow Council.

·         Elements of the way that the contract is delivered can be developed collaboratively by both parties to ensure the most efficient and cost effective approach.

·         HTS have a supply chain with access to both materials and sub-contractors to support delivery.

·         Whilst not a local North Herts based supplier, HTS’ values are aligned to the North Herts Council’s values, as demonstrated by their social and environmental activities. (see sections 13 and 14 below).

·         Being wholly owned by Harlow Council, any profits that HTS generate are ultimately fed back into providing public services.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

For Cabinet to consider and review the location of CCTV cameras, and make recommendations as to where cameras should be retained, removed or added.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted that Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation are looking to withdraw from the funding of CCTV cameras in Letchworth. That Cabinet agree in principle to the taking on of Letchworth cameras (and the costs involved), but seek a continuing contribution from the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation.

(2)  Agreed to the retention, removal and addition of CCTV cameras as set out in Table 1 of this report.

(3)  Delegated to the Service Director: Resources, in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and IT, a decision on the number of new mobile CCTV cameras that can be afforded within the existing overall revenue budget (making an allowance for monitoring costs and the costs of moving cameras).

(4)  Noted that additional capital investment in CCTV cameras will be needed and that this will be added to the capital budget for 2023/24 (subject to agreement by Full Council in February).

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The Council has chosen to provide CCTV cameras to help make the District a safer place to live and work. It also supports the Council’s Community Safety role, although the primary role sits with the police. This report therefore considers the optimum location for CCTV cameras based on evidence and professional knowledge.

Audio recording – 58 minutes 49 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘CCTV Camera Location Review’ and advised of the following:

·         A lot of work had gone into this review following the budget review.

·         The Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation were stopping their support of CCTV cameras and so the review had been expanded to take these additional cameras on board.

·         It was hoped that as technology evolved the costs of this would be reduced, but this ultimately was dependent on technological advancements and also the performance of CCTV partners.

·         It was important to have a stock of mobile cameras, which provided additional flexibility not provided by static cameras.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Keith Hoskins seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted that Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation are looking to withdraw from the funding of CCTV cameras in Letchworth. That Cabinet agree in principle to the taking on of Letchworth cameras (and the costs involved), but seek a continuing contribution from the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation.

(2)  Agreed to the retention, removal and addition of CCTV cameras as set out in Table 1 of this report.

(3)  Delegated to the Service Director: Resources, in consultation with the Executive Member for Finance and IT, a decision on the number of new mobile CCTV cameras that can be afforded within the existing overall revenue budget (making an allowance for monitoring costs and the costs of moving cameras).

(4)  Noted that additional capital investment in CCTV cameras will be needed and that this will be added to the capital budget for 2023/24 (subject to agreement by Full Council in February).

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The Council has chosen to provide CCTV cameras to help make the District a safer place to live and work. It also supports the Council’s Community Safety role, although the primary role sits with the police. This report therefore considers the optimum location for CCTV cameras based on evidence and professional knowledge.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR - RESOURCES

To update Cabinet on progress with delivering the capital and treasury strategy for 2022/23, as at the end of September 2022.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:

(1)  Noted the forecast expenditure of £9.815M in 2022/23 on the capital programme, paragraph 8.3 refers.

(2)  Approved the adjustments to the capital programme for 2022/23 onwards, as a result of the revised timetable of schemes detailed in table 2 and 3, increasing the estimated spend in 2023/24 by £0.861M and £2.0M in 2024/25.

(3)  Noted the position of the availability of capital resources, as detailed in table 4 paragraph 8.6 and the requirement to keep the capital programme under review for affordability.

REFERRAL TO COUNCIL: That Cabinet recommended to Council that it notes the position of Treasury Management activity as at the end of September 2022.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

(1)  Cabinet is required to approve adjustments to the capital programme and ensure the capital programme is fully funded.

(2)  To ensure the Council’s continued compliance with CIPFA’s code of practice on Treasury Management and the Local Government Act 2003 and that the Council manages its exposure to interest and capital risk.

Audio recording – 61 minutes 23 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Second Quarter Investment Strategy (Capital and Treasury) Review 2022/23’ and advised of the following:

·         This was the mid-year report, which included a referral onto Council in January.

·         Table 2 in the report detailed the capital schemes to be moved to the next financial year and Table 3 highlighted the emerging picture on building works regarding inflation.

·         The delay on some capital schemes to next year and increases in interest rates meant that the Council was earning extra returns on its surplus cash.

The Chair of Finance, Audit and Risk Committee presented the referral on this item and noted that the Committee had approved the recommendations in the report, including the referral onto Council.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:

(1)  Noted the forecast expenditure of £9.815M in 2022/23 on the capital programme, paragraph 8.3 refers.

(2)  Approved the adjustments to the capital programme for 2022/23 onwards, as a result of the revised timetable of schemes detailed in table 2 and 3, increasing the estimated spend in 2023/24 by £0.861M and £2.0M in 2024/25.

(3)  Noted the position of the availability of capital resources, as detailed in table 4 paragraph 8.6 and the requirement to keep the capital programme under review for affordability.

REFERRAL TO COUNCIL: That Cabinet recommended to Council that it notes the position of Treasury Management activity as at the end of September 2022.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS:

(1)  Cabinet is required to approve adjustments to the capital programme and ensure the capital programme is fully funded.

(2)  To ensure the Council’s continued compliance with CIPFA’s code of practice on Treasury Management and the Local Government Act 2003 and that the Council manages its exposure to interest and capital risk.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

To report on progress made on the North Herts Council Delivery Plan.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted the progress against Council projects as set out in the Council Delivery Plan (Appendix A) including changes to milestone dates and risks.

(2)  Noted the completion of the Local Plan milestones for this year.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The Council Delivery Plan (CDP) monitoring reports provide Cabinet with an opportunity to monitor progress against the key Council projects, and understand any new issues, risks or opportunities.

Audio recording – 64 minutes 52 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Q2 Update on the Council Delivery Plan’ and advised of the following:

·         This was an important document and it was important that all Councillor understood the role and benefit of this report. It allowed Members to see how projects were progressing and what was being done.

·         This version of the report now included further details on project milestones, as had been requested by Overview and Scrutiny Members.

·         Cabinet Members were encouraged to comment and add views on projects in their relevant service area, as it was important for Cabinet to take ownership of this report.

The Chair of Overview and Scrutiny Committee presented the referral on this item and noted:

·         The additional tweaks to the report had made the report more accessible and useful for understanding the progression on projects.

·         The Committee noted that the Local Plan had finally been adopted and that further risks would develop with regard to the Local Plan following the completion of the 6-week judicial review period.

·         One potential risk identified by the Committee was the developments outside of sites not included within the adopted Local Plan.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Amy Allen seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted the progress against Council projects as set out in the Council Delivery Plan (Appendix A) including changes to milestone dates and risks.

(2)  Noted the completion of the Local Plan milestones for this year.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: The Council Delivery Plan (CDP) monitoring reports provide Cabinet with an opportunity to monitor progress against the key Council projects, and understand any new issues, risks or opportunities.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – RESOURCES

To inform Cabinet of the summary position on revenue income and expenditure forecasts for the financial year 2022/23, as at the end of the second quarter.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted this report.

(2)  Approved the changes to the 2022/23 General Fund budget, as identified in table 3 and paragraph 8.2, a £270k decrease in net expenditure.

(3)  Noted the changes to the 2023/24 General Fund budget, as identified in table 3 and paragraph 8.2, a total £69k increase in net expenditure. These will be incorporated in the draft revenue budget for 2023/24.

(4)  Approved the debt write-offs detailed in table 8.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: Members are able to monitor, make adjustments within the overall budgetary framework and request appropriate action of Services who do not meet the budget targets set as part of the Corporate Business Planning process.

Audio recording – 69 minutes 55 seconds

The Executive Member for Finance and IT presented the report entitled ‘Second Quarter Revenue Budget Monitoring 2022/23’ and advised of the following:

·         Table 3 in the report highlighted the main changes since the last quarter. The main positive movement was the increase in treasury investment income and the continued recovery of leisure centres.

·         The increase in treasury investment income was due to the current inflation rates.

·         The main negative movement was with regard to forecast planning income drop.

·         Table 8 detailed the debts over £10k to be written off by Cabinet and the reasons for this.

The Chair of Finance, Audit and Risk Committee presented the referral on this item and noted that the Committee had approved the recommendations in the report.

Councillor Ian Albert proposed and Councillor Steve Jarvis seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet

(1)  Noted this report.

(2)  Approved the changes to the 2022/23 General Fund budget, as identified in table 3 and paragraph 8.2, a £270k decrease in net expenditure.

(3)  Noted the changes to the 2023/24 General Fund budget, as identified in table 3 and paragraph 8.2, a total £69k increase in net expenditure. These will be incorporated in the draft revenue budget for 2023/24.

(4)  Approved the debt write-offs detailed in table 8.

REASON FOR DECISIONS: Members are able to monitor, make adjustments within the overall budgetary framework and request appropriate action of Services who do not meet the budget targets set as part of the Corporate Business Planning process.

To consider passing the following resolution:

That under Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, the Press and Public be excluded from the meeting on the grounds that the following report will involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the said Act (as amended).

RESOLVED: That under Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, the Press and Public be excluded from the meeting on the grounds that the following report will involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the said Act (as amended).

Audio recording – 72 minutes 43 seconds

Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg proposed, as Chair, and Councillor Ruth Brown seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That under Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, the Press and Public be excluded from the meeting on the grounds that the following report will involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the said Act (as amended).

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – CUSTOMERS

This report seeks Cabinet approval for the Careline service to expand the in-house installation and maintenance service to include complex installation and maintenance services alongside the non-complex services already provided.

Details of decisions taken on this item are restricted due to the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of Section 200A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972.

Details of decisions taken on this item are restricted due to the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of Section 200A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972.

REPORT OF THE SERVICE DIRECTOR – CUSTOMERS

This report seeks Cabinet approval for the Careline service to expand the in-house installation and maintenance service to include complex installation and maintenance services alongside the non-complex services already provided.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet approved the addition of complex installations and maintenance to Carelines in-house service from 01 April 2023.

Audio recording – 82 minutes 04 seconds

The Chair presented the report entitled ‘Careline – In House Provision for Complex Installation and Maintenance’ and noted that the in-house service provision was a sensible progression.

Councillor Elizabeth Dennis-Harburg, as Chair, proposed and Councillor Ian Albert seconded and, following a vote, it was:

RESOLVED: That Cabinet approved the addition of complex installations and maintenance to Carelines in-house service from 01 April 2023.