Agenda, decisions and draft minutes
Venue: Committee Room, 1st Floor, Town Hall, Mulberry Place, 5 Clove Crescent, London, E14 2BG
Contact: Angus Taylor, Democratic Services Tel: 020 7364 4333, E-mail: angus.taylor@towerhamlets.gov.uk
No. | Item | |
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MR L. RAHMAN (MAYOR) IN THE CHAIR
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MAYOR’S WELCOME AND OPENING STATEMENT
The Mayor: · Welcomed those present in the public gallery. · Made an opening statement as follows:- o At a meeting of the Council, the previous evening 8th March, the Authority had passed a budget that contained £55m in cuts. This was a huge amount of money for this Council to lose, and it had been personally heartbreaking for Mayor Rahman to pass on the unnecessary and ideological cuts of the Tory-led government. o However, the Budget had been passed with support from across the political spectrum and as Mayor he had been happy to take on amendments and proposals from all sides, such as the excellent ideas put forward by the Liberal Democrat Councillor Stephanie Eaton and colleagues in Respect. o Viital services had been protected and as the business transacted at the Cabinet meeting that evening 9th March would show, there was still some room for invest in the priorities of his Administration. o Of course, there were still many £millions of cuts to come and there would be further pain. However as Mayor he and those who had joined him had shown that by working as a community the blow could be softened. Those in the community sank or swam together. o Mayor Rahman saluted the courage of his Labour Group colleagues who voted with their heads the previous evening. He considered they had shown the principle and conviction that had often been missing from progressive politics. o Mayor Rahman formally paid tribute to Councillor Alibor Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Resources, who has done a fantastic job in very difficult circumstances. He had worked tirelessly to make the Budget setting process as fair and inclusive as possible. Mayor Rahman also formally thanked Mr Chris Naylor and the other members of the Corporate Management Team for their assistance in achieving the agreement of the Budget. Together they had made sure that despite the unprecedented scale of the cuts the Authority and the Mayor and his Administration were in good shape to meet the challenges of the future. o Mayor Rahman and his Cabinet would be considering a range of proposals that evening 9th March: Ø The regeneration of the Bartlett Park area would deliver 150 new homes, with 50% being affordable. This work was part of his commitment as Mayor to deliver affordable housing for Tower Hamlets. Ø Agreement of a policy for Major Events in Park ensuring that there would be best value for money from events held in Victoria Park, whilst ensuring that concerns of residents and other stakeholders were taken into account. There would be community fireworks in four different corners of the borough, which would increase the capacity for enjoyment of the display and make it more accessible to people from all walks of life – from families and children to elderly and disabled. There would be greater use of the Council’s parks. Ø A proposal to reorganise the existing Chidren’s and Adults directorates into one new unified directorate, which would lead to more efficiency savings. This was part of my commitment as Mayor to continue to find savings without affecting frontline services. o In conclusion the Mayor commented that he was certain everyone was looking forward to the royal wedding next month. He intended to provide support to residents organising street parties and joining together in celebration, and the Authority had already reduced the processing time for royal wedding street party applications from 4 weeks to 3 weeks. Mayor Rahman wanted to continue the East End tradition of street parties and ensure that people had something to celebrate, even in these tough times.
ADJOURNMENT
At this juncture the Mayor informed those present that before he and his Cabinet proceeded to consideration of the substantive business set out in the agenda, there would be an opportunity for the public to put questions to himself, the Deputy Mayor, and other Members comprising the Cabinet who were present. Accordingly the Mayor Moved the following motion for the consideration of members of the Cabinet, and it was: -
Resolved
That the Cabinet adjourn for a short period of up to 15 minutes, at 5.45pm, and that the meeting reconvene thereafter.
The meeting adjourned at 5.45pm The meeting reconvened at 5.55pm
Question & Answer Session
Members of the public sought clarification in relation to the following points: · Victoria Park and commercial events: o Concern that despite a motion passed by the full Council in December 2010 understood to restrict the use of Victoria Park for Commercial Events the proposed programme of events for Summer 2011 was the same as 2010. o Concern that there had been a lack of consultation with residents in the vicinity of Victoria Park, the Area Partnership and the Victoria Park Friends Group, in relation to the proposed policy for major events in parks. o Acknowledging the need of the Council to generate income to offset severe Government cuts in funding, consideration that this could be achieved with greater respect for users of the park during the summer, and in a way which minimised nuisance to the neighbouring community. Other Inner London Boroughs had restricted public events in parks to a greater extent than that proposed by Tower Hamlets apparently without a detrimental commercial impact o Leasehold Policy Review o What was the justification for rushing through now the decisions of the present Leasehold Policy Review given the context of: Ø The scope and complexity of the issues involved and important policy changes proposed. Ø The continuing requirement to deliver the agreed aim of the full Council (October 2008) in commissioning an independent audit of leaseholdcharges: “Re-establishing satisfaction and confidence amongst leaseholdersthat the Council and THH will delivery value for money by driving down costs,increasing efficiency and ensuring sustained improvements to the service” Ø Failure to properly consult leaseholders on the existing Policy Review and also to publish/circulate (contrary to commitments made) those leaseholder submissions that were received. Ø The importance of the Beevers & Struthers independent audit report ofleaseholder charges and services, which covered in detail many of theareas/issues covered by the policy review documents, but which had not been properly part of the present deliberations (although the process of signing it off for official publication had been promised for March 2011). o Would not the interests of all, including the need to produce firmly based policies for the important leasehold service, be best served by now considering the Leasehold Policy Review together with the shortly to be published Beevers & Struthers audit report, allowing full consideration of the issues and also proper consultation with all stakeholders, including the leaseholders directly effected?
The Mayor indicated that the questions and comments related to substantive items of business, as set out in the agenda, and therefore they would be noted at this juncture and a response given during the Cabinet deliberation of the items of business to which the questions/ comments related.
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APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE To receive any apologies for absence.
Decision: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:
· Mr S. Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture for whom Mr R. Beattie, Acting Head of Strategy and Resources, Communities, Localities and Culture, was deputising.
Apologies for lateness were received on behalf of:
· Councillor A. Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Resources. · Ms. I. Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services), Chief Executive’s.
Noted.
Minutes: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:
· Mr S. Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture for whom Mr R. Beattie, Acting Head of Strategy and Resources, Communities, Localities and Culture, was deputising.
Apologies for lateness were received on behalf of:
· Councillor A. Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Resources. · Ms. I. Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services), Chief Executive’s.
Noted.
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DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST PDF 47 KB To note any declarations of interest made by Members, including those restricting Members from voting on the questions detailed in Section 106 of the Local Government Finance Act, 1992. See attached note from the Chief Executive.
Decision: Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 5.2 (i) “Any Unrestricted Decisions ‘Called in’ by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Cabinet decision ‘Called in’ - Leasehold Policy Review”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the referral, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 7th March 2011, of the provisional decision of the Cabinet, made on 9th February 2011 in relation to the Leasehold Policy Review report (CAB 080/101), to Cabinet for further consideration contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Leasehold Policy and Councillor Ahmed was an LBTH Leaseholder.
Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Councillor Rania Khan declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Rania Khan was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Noted.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE - LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 5.2 (i) “Any Unrestricted Decisions ‘Called in’ by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Cabinet decision ‘Called in’ - Leasehold Policy Review”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the referral, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 7th March 2011, of the provisional decision of the Cabinet, made on 9th February 2011 in relation to the Leasehold Policy Review report (CAB 080/101), to Cabinet for further consideration contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Leasehold Policy and Councillor Ahmed was an LBTH Leaseholder.
Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Councillor Rania Khan declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Rania Khan was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Noted.
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UNRESTRICTED MINUTES PDF 210 KB To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011.
Decision:
Resolved
That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011 be approved and signed by the Mayor, as a correct record of the proceedings.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE - LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The Mayor moved and it was:-
Resolved
That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011 be approved and signed by the Mayor, as a correct record of the proceedings.
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PETITIONS To receive any petitions.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The clerk advised that the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) had received no requests for petitions in respect of the business contained in the agenda.
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OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE |
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Chair's advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Unrestricted Business to be considered To receive any advice of key issues or questions in relation to the unrestricted business of the Cabinet, arising from the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 7th March 2011.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Councillor Jackson, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, addressed members of the Cabinet: · Formally thanking Councillor Rabina Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, and Councillor Rania Khan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, for attending the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) to discuss/ answer questions on agenda items relating to their Cabinet Member portfolios. · Scrutiny Spotlight – Cabinet Member for Regeneration o Outlining the key issues on which this discussion focused: Ø Jobs for local residents from local and regional regeneration projects Ø Regeneration of area around Bethnal Green tube station and how this could be better planned. Ø Developing better understanding of the demographic of unemployed people. Factors keeping people unemployed and if and how this could be changed. Ø Developing local peoples skills to equip them to access jobs at the Olympic site, and how the Authority might secure more from the opportunity of the 2012 Games, for example jobs beyond the end of the Games. Ø Support for King Edward Memorial Park: concerns regarding the works being undertaken requiring careful action from officers, for example restoration of the Park once works were finished. Ø Poplar Baths regeneration: The potential for connecting with Chrisp Street regeneration to reduce disruption. · Referrals from Full Council Ø Mayor’s Office - staffing proposals: reporting that despite concerns regarding proposed costs, the OSC agreed not to consider this because of the commitment given by Cabinet, in February 2011, to set up a cross party group to examine support to the Mayor’s Office and support for councillors. Ø Confidentiality of Members Enquiries: reporting that the OSC referred this to the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) to review and report back. Further understanding was needed as to what must remain confidential. Ø Bancroft Library: reporting that the OSC were to consider this issue at their April meeting. · Performance and Budget Scrutiny · Advising of key elements of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee’s consideration of the report “Strategic Performance and Corporate Budget Monitoring to December 31st 2010” to inform Cabinet consideration of the same report: Ø Shortfall relating to leasehold charging. Ø Overspend in communication budget in Children, Schools and Families Directorate, in particular why school redundancy costs had not been budgeted for appropriately. Ø Overspends in Adults Health and Well Being Directorate. Reporting that written responses regarding these issues had been received and circulated to members of the OSC.
Mr Dalvi, Corporate Director Development and Renewal briefly clarified why it was not possible to connect the regeneration of Poplar Baths and that of Chrisp Street, given different delivery agents and legal mechanisms.
The Mayor commented: · Commented that Poplar Baths had been a priority for the Administration when he had been Leader of the Council and since becoming Mayor he had ensured it had again become a priority. He expected that within the next few months a solution acceptable to the Council and the Community would be brought forward. · Commented that the issues relating to the costs of running a Mayoral Office had been settled ... view the full minutes text for item 5.1 |
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Any Unrestricted Decisions "Called in" by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee (Under provisions of Article 6 Para 6.02 V of the Constitution).
The following item has been “called in” for further consideration by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at its meeting to be held on 7th March 2011. Should the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, upon consideration, refer the item back to the Cabinet for further consideration Members will receive a copy of the report and the decision/ recommendations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at the Cabinet meeting.
(i) Leasehold Policy Review (CAB 080/101).
Decision: 5.2(i) Cabinet Decision “Called in” Leasehold Policy Review (CAB 103/101)
Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 5.2 (i) “Any Unrestricted Decisions ‘Called in’ by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Cabinet decision ‘Called in’ - Leasehold Policy Review”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the referral, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 7th March 2011, of the provisional decision of the Cabinet, made on 9th February 2011 in relation to the Leasehold Policy Review report (CAB 080/101), to Cabinet for further consideration contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Leasehold Policy and Councillor Ahmed was an LBTH Leaseholder.
Reference from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 7th March 2011, Tabled by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Response of Corporate Director Development and Renewal to the reference from Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 7th March 2011, Tabled.
Resolved
1. That the advice /comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as detailed in the Tabled Reference (CAB 103/101) be noted;
2. That the provisional decision of the Cabinet, made on 9th February 2011, in relation to the Leasehold Policy Review report (CAB 080/101) be reaffirmed;
3. That the Corporate Director Development and Renewal be instructed to examine the final report of the Beevers and Struthers independent audit of leasehold service charges, upon its publication, to identify any implications arising in respect of the Authority’s Leasehold Policy and to bring forward any appropriate revisions to this Policy for Cabinet consideration; and
4. That Corporate Director Development and Renewal, after consultation with the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services), be instructed to examine the basis and rationale for any differential charging of leaseholders by Registered Social Landlords, also the mechanism by which any costs were absorbed/ redistributed, and the scope for the Authority to act similarly at a future point.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR – DEVELOPMENT & RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head, Strategy, Innovation & Sustainability, Development and Renewal (J. Odunoye)
Minutes: 5.2(i) Cabinet Decision “Called in” Leasehold Policy Review (CAB 103/101)
Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 5.2 (i) “Any Unrestricted Decisions ‘Called in’ by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Cabinet decision ‘Called in’ - Leasehold Policy Review”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the referral, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 7th March 2011, of the provisional decision of the Cabinet, made on 9th February 2011 in relation to the Leasehold Policy Review report (CAB 080/101), to Cabinet for further consideration contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Leasehold Policy and Councillor Ahmed was an LBTH Leaseholder.
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that: · Councillor Jackson, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, had Tabled a reference (CAB 103/101) arising from the deliberations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC), held on 7th March 2011, in respect of the provisional decision of the Cabinet, held on 9th February 2011, made in relation to the report “Leasehold Policy Review” (CAB 080/101), a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes. · A detailed response to the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in the tabled reference regarding this agenda item, had been Tabled by the Corporate Director Development and Renewal, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Councillor Jackson, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, addressed members of the Cabinet in relation to the tabled reference of the OSC (CAB 103/101), and requests contained therein, summarising the key reasons for “Call In”, highlighting focal points of the further deliberation of this matter by the Committee and its conclusion to refer the provisional decision of the Cabinet regarding this matter back to the Cabinet for further consideration. · Summarised 3 key reasons for the “Call In”: o That the proposed revisions to the Authority’s Leasehold Policy were not aligned with the report of the Beevers and Struthers Independent Audit of leasehold service charges, which had yet to be finalised and signed off. o Fundamental changes were proposed to the Authority’s Leasehold Policy whereby leaseholders on the ground floor will start becoming liable for the costs of day-to-day maintenance and replacement of lifts and door entry systems. Also, leaseholders who succeeded in having a component exempted from major works would nevertheless be recharged a share of the preliminaries, professional and management fees arising from the major works contract. o Non-publication of the Counsel’s Legal Opinion obtained by the Authority (the basis for the legal advice in the February Cabinet report that the proposed changes to the Leasehold Policy were necessary), to help inform the decision making process. · Commented in relation to the response of the Corporate Director Development and Renewal to the referral of the “Call In”/ associated reference (CAB103/101): o That it indicated policy changes required agreement by Cabinet in March in order for changes to the way leaseholder charges were calculated (including those for ... view the full minutes text for item 5.2 |
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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE |
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Cotall Street/ Bartlett Park (CAB 098/101) PDF 144 KB Additional documents:
Decision: Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Councillor Rania Khan declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Rania Khan was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Resolved:
1. That, subject to the conditions at paragraph 6.4 of the report (CAB 098/101) the Corporate Director of Development and Renewal after consultation with the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal) be authorised to negotiate terms and conditions of the disposal in accordance with the proposals in clause 6 in order that the Mayor can use his Executive powers to decide whether to proceed with the disposal of Cotall Street and land at Stainsby Road to the proposed Registered Providers; and
2 That, in the event the Mayor agrees the disposal, referred to in resolution 1. above, the Corporate Director of Development and Renewal after consultation with the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) be authorised to enter into all necessary documentation to put into effect the decision described in resolution 1 above and the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) be authorised to execute all necessary documents to implement that decision.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Services Head Regeneration, Development and Renewal (C. Worby) Housing Regeneration Manager, Major Project Development, Development and Renewal (N. McGowan).
ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN)
Minutes: Councillor O. Ahmed(Deputy Mayor) declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Councillor Rania Khan declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 “Cotall Street/Bartlett Park”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to Poplar HARCA and Councillor Rania Khan was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Poplar HARCA.
Councillor Rabina Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, at the request of the Mayor, in introducing the report, summarised the key points contained therein, commenting as follows:- · The report took forward a long standing proposal to dispose of land in Cotall Street and Stainsby Road, and formed an element of wider proposals to reconfigure the local open space of Bartlett Park. · Recently the Authority had been required to address the problem of squatters who occupied the former flats in Cotall Street, and this necessitated bringing forward the demolition of the buildings in advance of developing the proposals with the Registered Social Landlords (RSL's). · The RSL's East Homes and the Poplar HARCA are now finalising their development models. These proposed building 150 new homes of which 50 percent would be affordable and include provision of large family units. This was in addition to homes already delivered in the locality as part of providing for the replacement of the Cotall Street .
A discussion followed, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:-
· The Deputy Mayor: o Formally thanked Councillor Rabina Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, for her contribution in developing the proposals contained in the report and driving these forward. o Warmly welcomed the aspiration set out in the report that the proposed development deliver at least 50 percent affordable homes, which accorded with the priorities of the Mayor and his administration. o Noted the key requirement for the scheme of delivering a minimum of 30 percent family housing, but considered that the aspiration in this area should be more ambitious. · The Mayor commented that he strongly agreed with the comments made by the Deputy Mayor and he and his administration would strive to deliver on these aspirations as circumstances changed going forward. · A Labour Group councillor, speaking with the consent of the Mayor and Cabinet: o Commented that he was pleased to see this scheme being progressed and welcomed the aspiration that it deliver 50 percent affordable housing for which there was great need in Tower Hamlets. o Noted the balance of intermediate and social rented accommodation within the proposals, commenting that many did not regard intermediate housing as affordable and recalling robust negotiations with the fomer Mayor of London on this issue. He considered the proposed level of intermediate accommodation ... view the full minutes text for item 6.1 |
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Commercial Activities in Parks (CAB 099/101) PDF 108 KB Decision: Resolved:
1. That the number of commercial and non-commercial event days in Victoria Park (excluding 2012) be restricted to ten days or less where this can be achieved whilst still securing income targets. This limit to exclude events such as charity fun-runs;
2. That the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture be instructed to explore the possibility of reducing the number of commercial event days for 2011;
3. That the current closing time (11.00pm) remain unchanged;
4. That one consecutive weekend of commercial music events be permitted;
5. That Officers continue to monitor levels of security, stewarding and traffic management and improve these as necessary in response to need;
6. That noise control levels continue to be monitored and adjusted as necessary in the light of ongoing experience;
7. That negotiation for the Live Site in 2012 be considered outside of these arrangements;
8. That arrangements to allow a maximum of ten commercial events in Victoria Park in 2011 continue;
9. That the two-day Paradise Gardens event no longer proceed;
10. That in place of a single major fireworks event in Victoria Park, four smaller community fireworks events take place, one in each paired LAP;
11. That the opportunity to promote events in Victoria Park be tendered for the year 2013 and onwards;
12. That income generating opportunities in other suitable parks continue to be pursued where these do not impact unduly on the local community and planned sporting arrangements;
13. That the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture examine the location of commercial and non-commercial events within Victoria Park with a view to mitigating any noise impact on nearby residents.
14. That the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture be instructed to keep the Authority’s policy in respect of events in parks under review and to advise the Mayor and Cabinet of any appropriate revisions.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE (S. HALSEY) Interim Service Head Cultural Services – Communities Localities and Culture (H. Bonfield)
Minutes: Mr Beattie, Acting Head of Strategy and Resources, Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Mayor, in introducing the report, summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular that:
· The report, which proposed a policy for major events in the Authority’s parks, had been brought forward by the Executive in response to a discussion on the impact of major events in Victoria Park on the local community at a meeting of the full Council, held on 8th December 2010, and the requests contained in an associated motion agreed at the meeting. · The proposed policy endeavoured to address concerns raised at the Council meeting by striking a balance between the need to generate much needed income, at a time of unprecedented cuts in Local Government funding, by using the asset of the Authority’s parks to host commercial events, with the needs of local residents. · Key proposals included: o A reduction in the number of days with major events in Victoria Park from thirteen in 2010 to ten in 2011. To achieve this it was proposed that two free community events, which generated the largest audiences, no longer take place in Victoria Park: The Paradise Gardens event to cease and the annual fireworks show to be replace with four smaller events elsewhere. o One consecutive weekend of commercial music events per year, a reduction from three in 2010. o The Victoria Park events package to be tendered from 2013 onwards, and the 2012 Live site to be negotiated separately from these arrangements.
A lengthy discussion followed, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · Clarification/ assurance was sought and given: o As to whether officers had examined the potential use of other parks in the borough for events benefitting the community and income generation. Noted that the scope for this was constrained by health and safety requirements and transport links, but options were being pursued where these did not impact on the local community or planned sporting arrangements. o That the annual fireworks display in Victoria Park was not being cancelled altogether but replaced by four smaller events (Millwall Park, Weavers Fields, Mile End Stadium and King George’s Playing Fields) and the tradition would therefore continue. The rationale for this was also outlined. o Regarding the nature and methodology of the consultation undertaken in relation to the proposed policy. Examination of feedback from event participants, analysis of complaints, addressing concerns raised by local councillors on behalf of residents. o Regarding the measures to be taken to address the concerns of local residents in relation to major events in parks such as noise control, security, stewarding and cleaning of Victoria Park. Also improved performance in these areas. · The Mayor stated that he considered it appropriate to explore the possibility of reducing the number of commercial event days for 2011 from the ten recommended in the proposed policy, and would be instructing officers to do so. · Labour Group councillors, ... view the full minutes text for item 6.2 |
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A PROSPEROUS COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.
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A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.
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A HEALTHY COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.
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ONE TOWER HAMLETS |
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Children's and Adults' Services Reorganisation (CAB 100/101) PDF 131 KB Decision: Resolved:
1. That the existing two Council directorates of Children, Schools and Families and Adults Health and Wellbeing be reorganised into one new unified directorate;
2. That it be agreed that the recruitment of an Executive Director, amalgamating the existing posts of Corporate Director Children, Schools and Families / Corporate Director Adults Health and Wellbeing proceed;
3. That the Chief Executive, after consultation with the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) and the current Corporate Directors of Children Schools and Families and Adults Health and Wellbeing, be responsible for ensuring that the amalgamation of the two Corporate Director posts still ensures that the social care needs of children and schools services and adults’ health and wellbeing in the local community are given equal emphasis and are managed in a co-ordinated way; and
4. That a progress report on the implementation of the new arrangements be submitted for Cabinet consideration in January 2012.
Action by: CHIEF EXECUTIVE (K. COLLINS) ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES (I. CATTERMOLE) ACTING CORPORATE DIRECTOR, ADULT HEALTH AND WELLBEING (H. TAYLOR)
Minutes: Mr Collins Chief Executive, at the request of the Mayor, in introducing the report, summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular that: · The report had been brought forward following the request of the Mayor that he examine the potential for Children, Schools and Families and Adults, Health and Wellbeing to be reorganised into one unified directorate, to achieve further savings without affecting frontline services. · There had been engagement with key stakeholders and partners, including the NHS and Schools, about the proposal and feedback had been generally positive. Risks and challenges had been highlighted but there was broad support for their management and the proposal moving forward. · Section 11 of the report, where the risks of the proposal and measures to mitigate these were set out. Risk management would be key to successful implementation.
A brief discussion followed which focused on the following points:- · A Labour Group councillor, speaking with the consent of the Mayor and Cabinet: o Commented that the imperative of efficiency savings, given the severe financial constraints placed on Tower Hamlets by the Conservative/ Liberal Democrat was important, and the proposal to achieve this through amalgamation of the two directorates was congruent with the framework established over recent months for this. o Commented that although he had understood the original rationale for separating Children’s and Adults’ social services, he had articulated concerns at the time about the creation of two directorates to achieve this. o Expressed concern however in relation to the scale of the task ahead in 2012: to achieve the amalgamation of the two directorates, in addition to delivering the savings contained in the Authority’s recently agreed Budget, identifying further savings of £17 million and managing significant change programmes within current plans. · Mr Collins Chief Executive, provided clarification/ assurance as follows:- o The scale of the challenge ahead to achieve the amalgamation was acknowledged. o However this proposal should be grasped as an opportunity to create more holistic and seamless service provision that could improve the quality of the lives of many of the boroughs residents. In particular he thought of the journey of children and adults cared for by the Council, noted for being an area of risk. o He had the upmost confidence in the quality of staff employed by the Council and in particular the current corporate directors and indeed the service heads reporting to them who were some of the best in the country. o He would maintain a clear focus on risk and risk management, as this would be key to success.
The Mayor Moved the recommendations as set out in the report; and it was:-
Resolved:
1. That the existing two Council directorates of Children, Schools and Families and Adults Health and Wellbeing be reorganised into one new unified directorate;
2. That it be agreed that the recruitment of an Executive Director, amalgamating the existing posts of Corporate Director Children, Schools and Families / Corporate Director Adults Health and Wellbeing proceed;
3. That the Chief Executive, after consultation ... view the full minutes text for item 10.1 |
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Strategic Performance and Corporate Budget Monitoring to 31st December 2010 (CAB 101/101) PDF 149 KB Additional documents:
Decision: Resolved:
1. That the Council’s financial position as outlined in paragraphs 5 and 6 and appendices 1-7 of the report (CAB 101/101) be noted;
2. That the Quarter 3 2010/11 performance, including areas where further work is needed to ensure the Authority delivers improved outcomes, be noted;
3. That the actions being taken to address the reported overspends be noted; and
4. That specific ‘You Decide!’ actions, as set out in section 8 of the report (CAB 101/101), be approved.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head, One Tower Hamlets, Chief Executive’s (M. Keating) Service Head, Corporate Finance, Resources (A. Finch)
Minutes: Councillor Alibor Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Resources, at the request of the Mayor, in introducing the report, summarised the key points contained therein, commenting as follows:- · The joint report brought together the Authority’s performance and budget position. It was important to look at the two together to identify the current position with regard to delivery of outcomes for the community within the budget and best value framework. · Effective performance monitoring and reporting crucial given the standards to be met and the constant need to improve services. · 53% of the strategic indicators reportable in this period were on target, and 62% had improved performance since this time last year. · 12 projects within the “You Decide” participatory budgeting programme were now complete, 69 were on track and 24 were delayed but anticipated to complete on time. Only 4 projects were at risk of not meeting overall project targets in 2011/12. Mitigating action was detailed in the report. · In terms of Budget management, the Mayor and Cabinet had asked officers to take all necessary steps to ensure the Authority stay within budget. Apart from a small overspend on both the General Fund and the HRA, amounting overall to less than 1% of total spending, the Authority was doing well. · There was no room for complacency as it was acknowledged that next year there was a huge challenge, to find £17 million more in savings and stay within budget, without compromising service delivery.
A discussion followed, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · With reference to paragraph 7.12 “Strategic 103, 104 – The percentage of the top paid - LP07 or above - of Local Authority staff that are an ethnic minority/ have a disability”: Whilst acknowledging that good work had been undertaken to improve performance, concern was expressed that the indicators were reported as at risk of achieving the year-end target again in 2011/12. Achieving a workforce to reflect the community was a strategic priority for the Authority, set by this and previous administrations, but clearly much more needed to be done to achieve this at the level of senior management. Clarification/ assurance was sought as to what more could be done to address this area of under-performance. · Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources and Mr Collins Chief Executive responded as follows:- o Commenting that the Authority should be proud of its achievements to date in this area and the positive direction of travel noted and commended. Organisations in the private sector could not match the Council in this area. o Giving an assurance that the Corporate Management Team and Service Heads were totally committed to the achievement of this objective. o Advising that the report detailed a continuous trajectory towards achievement of the objective and in many areas the objective had been achieved or was close to being so, however further work was needed to achieve the goal at senior management level. o Outlining initiatives under way to improve performance/ achieve the ... view the full minutes text for item 10.2 |
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ANY OTHER UNRESTRICTED BUSINESS CONSIDERED TO BE URGENT To consider any other unrestricted business that the Chair considers to be urgent.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that there were no business to be considered under this section of the agenda.
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UNRESTRICTED REPORTS FOR INFORMATION |
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Exercise of Corporate Directors' Discretions (CAB 102/101) PDF 63 KB Additional documents: Decision: Resolved:
That the exercise of Corporate Directors’ discretions, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 102/101), be noted.
CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head, Corporate Finance, Resources (A. Finch) Chief Financial Strategy Officer, Resources (O. Shonola) Finance Officer, Resources (L. Stone)
Minutes: The Mayor Moved the recommendation as set out in the report and it was: -
Resolved:
That the exercise of Corporate Directors’ discretions, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 102/101), be noted.
Reasons for Decisions
These are detailed in paragraphs 3.1 to 3.2 of the report (CAB 102/101)
Alternative Options Considered
These are detailed in paragraphs 4.1 to 4.2 of the report (CAB 102/101)
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EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC In view of the contents of the remaining items on the agenda, the Committee is recommended to adopt the following motion:
“That, under the provisions of Section 100A of the Local Government Act, 1972 as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) Act, 1985, the Press and Public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting for the consideration of the Section Two business on the grounds that it contains information defined as Exempt in Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government, Act 1972”.
EXEMPT/CONFIDENTIAL SECTION (PINK)
Decision: Resolved:
That pursuant to regulation 21(1)(b) of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2000, the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting:
(a) As it was likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted in Section Two of the agenda, that if members of the public were present during consideration of this business there would be disclosure of exempt information.
· Exempt information is defined in section 100I and, by reference, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (“the 1972 Act”). To be exempt, information must fall within one of the categories listed in paragraphs 1 to 7 of Schedule 12A, must not fall within one of the excluded categories in paragraphs 8 and 9 and the public interest in maintaining the exemption must outweigh the public interest in disclosing the information.
o Agenda item Agenda item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011) contained information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). In particular information relating to the financial affairs of the Council.
(b) As although there is a public interest favouring public access to local authority meetings, in this case the Cabinet concluded that given the information contained in:
o Agenda item Agenda item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011) relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). In particular information relating to the financial affairs of the Council.
that the public interest in maintaining the exemption on the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing it.
SUMMARY OF EXEMPT PROCEEDINGS
Minutes: The Mayor moved and it was:-
Resolved:
That pursuant to regulation 21(1)(b) of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2000, the press and public be excluded from the remainder of the meeting:
(a) As it was likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted in Section Two of the agenda, that if members of the public were present during consideration of this business there would be disclosure of exempt information.
· Exempt information is defined in section 100I and, by reference, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (“the 1972 Act”). To be exempt, information must fall within one of the categories listed in paragraphs 1 to 7 of Schedule 12A, must not fall within one of the excluded categories in paragraphs 8 and 9 and the public interest in maintaining the exemption must outweigh the public interest in disclosing the information.
o Agenda item Agenda item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011) contained information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). In particular information relating to the financial affairs of the Council.
(b) As although there is a public interest favouring public access to local authority meetings, in this case the Cabinet concluded that given the information contained in:
o Agenda item Agenda item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011) relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). In particular information relating to the financial affairs of the Council.
that the public interest in maintaining the exemption on the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing it.
SUMMARY OF EXEMPT PROCEEDINGS
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EXEMPT / CONFIDENTIAL MINUTES To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the exempt / confidential minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011.
Decision: Minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011 agreed.
Minutes: Minutes of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th February 2011 agreed.
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OVERVIEW & SCRUTINY COMMITTEE |
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Chair's advice of Key Issues or Questions in relation to Exempt / Confidential Business to be considered. Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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Any Exempt / Confidential Decisions "Called in" by the Overview & Scrutiny Committee (Under provisions of Article 6 Para 6.02 V of the Constitution).
Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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A PROSPEROUS COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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A HEALTHY COMMUNITY Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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ONE TOWER HAMLETS Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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ANY OTHER EXEMPT/ CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS CONSIDERED TO BE URGENT To consider any other exempt/ confidential business that the Chair considers to be urgent.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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EXEMPT / CONFIDENTIAL REPORTS FOR INFORMATION Nil items.
Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: Nil items.
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