Agenda, decisions and draft minutes
Venue: Committee Room C1, 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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COUNCILLOR L. RAHMAN (CHAIR) IN THE CHAIR
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APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE To receive any apologies for absence. Decision: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of: · Mr C. Naylor, Corporate Director Resources for whom Ms D. Clarke, Joint Director Human Resources, Resources, was deputising. · Mr L. Ali, Assistant Chief Executive for whom Mr M. Keating, Service Head Scrutiny & Equalities, Chief Executive’s, was deputising.
Noted.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (L. Ali) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of: · Mr C. Naylor, Corporate Director Resources for whom Ms D. Clarke, Joint Director Human Resources, Resources, was deputising. · Mr L. Ali, Assistant Chief Executive for whom Mr M. Keating, Service Head Scrutiny & Equalities, Chief Executive’s, was deputising.
Noted.
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DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST PDF 25 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 S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 .Amendments to the Council’s Lettings Policy” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Lettings Policy (which determines nominations from the Common Housing Register for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes]) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities, Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Councillor Ahmed was a Board Member - Olympic Delivery Authority - Planning Decision Team.
Councillor S Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/2010”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Capital Programme for Highways, Councillor Islam had a suggestion to make regarding the inclusion of a scheme relating to John Scurr Primary School in the Capital Programme and Councillor Islam was a school governor at John Scurr primary school.
Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor O Ahmeddeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Noted.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (L. Ali) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 .Amendments to the Council’s Lettings Policy” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Lettings Policy (which determines nominations from the Common Housing Register for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes]) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities, Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Councillor Ahmed was a Board Member - Olympic Delivery Authority - Planning Decision Team.
Councillor S Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/2010”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Capital Programme for Highways, Councillor Islam had a suggestion to make regarding the inclusion of a scheme relating to John Scurr Primary School in the Capital Programme and Councillor Islam was a school governor at John Scurr primary school.
Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor O Ahmeddeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Noted.
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UNRESTRICTED MINUTES PDF 72 KB To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 11th March 2009.
Decision: Resolved
That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 11th March 2009 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (L. Ali) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The Chair Moved and it was: -
Resolved
That the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 11th March 2009 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.
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DEPUTATIONS & PETITIONS To receive any deputations or petitions. Decision: Nil items.
Minutes: The clerk advised that the Assistant Chief Executive had received no requests for deputations or 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 April 2009.
Decision: Sheet of questions and comments arising from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 7th April 2009 Tabled by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
Resolved
That the questions and comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee be noted, and that these be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the items of business to which the questions/ comments related.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (L. Ali) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Asad, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, had Tabled a sheet of questions/ comments arising from the deliberations of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 7th April 2009, in respect of the unrestricted business contained in the agenda for consideration, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Councillor Asad, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee:-
· Thanked Councillor Rahman, Leader of the Council, for attending the Overview and Scrutiny Committee the previous evening for the final “Scrutiny Spotlight” of the Municipal Year 2008/09. In acknowledging that there had been some excellent achievements by the Authority, Councillor Asad commented that it was important for it not to rest on its laurels but to continue striving to improve services for local residents; and he considered that the Scrutiny Spotlight sessions had served a useful purpose in this context. · Informed members of the Cabinet that the Committee: o Received an excellent presentation, from officers in the Strategy and Performance Team, highlighting the importance of partnership working and the role of Councillors in ensuring that the Authority’s performance continued to improve. o Received a detailed presentation from Councillor Khatun, Scrutiny Lead A Safe and Supportive Community, outlining the key points of the report of the Scrutiny Working Group, which she had chaired, on alcohol misuse amongst young people (smashed). Councillor Asad commented that the review had indicated that this was a significant issue of increasing prevalence in the Borough and that further work was needed to identify the exact nature of the problem and associated solutions. The report would now be forwarded to the appropriate Lead Member and Council directorate for response. o Would receive presentations in respect of the remaining five scrutiny reviews, undertaken in the Municipal Year 2008/09, at its next meeting. · Informed members of the Cabinet that he had nothing to add to the questions/ comments raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as set out in the tabled paper regarding: - o Agenda Item 6.1 “Amendments to the Council’s Lettings Policy” o Agenda Item 6.2 “Local Authority Carbon Management Programme” o Agenda Item 6.3 “Communities, Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/10 o Agenda Item 8.1 “Commission into the Public Safety of Young People in Tower Hamlets”
The Chair thanked Councillor Asad for: · Presenting the contribution of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. · The work of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee during the past Municipal Year, emphasising the importance of checks and balances in the Authority’s formulation of policy and associated decision making process. · Moved, and it was: -
Resolved
That the questions and comments of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee be noted, and that these be given consideration during the Cabinet deliberation of the items of business to which the questions/ comments related.
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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).
Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items.
Minutes: The Clerk advised that no requests had been received by the Assistant Chief Executive to “call in” for further consideration, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, any provisional decisions taken by the Cabinet, at its meeting held on 11th March 2009.
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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE |
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Amendments to the Council's Lettings Policy (CAB 138/089) PDF 60 KB Decision: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 .Amendments to the Council’s Lettings Policy” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Lettings Policy (which determines nominations from the Common Housing Register for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes]) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Resolved:
1. That paragraph 2.2.2 of the Lettings Policy (Community Group 2) be amended as follows: “to include persons who are statutorily homeless and who have an assessed priority need and are accepted as unintentionally homeless.”;
2. That paragraph 2.2.3 of the Lettings Policy (Community Group 3) be amended as follows: “to include persons who are statutorily homeless and who do not have an assessed priority need, and all other housing applicants who do not fall within groups 1,2 or 4”; and
3. That paragraph 2.3 of the Lettings Policy be amended as follows: “Group 3 If you are not included in any of these other groups or have been assessed as homeless but are not in priority need, your application will normally be placed in Group 3”.
Action by CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. Dalvi) Service Head Strategy, Regeneration and Sustainability, Development and Renewal (J. Odunoye)
Minutes: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.1 .Amendments to the Council’s Lettings Policy” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Lettings Policy (which determines nominations from the Common Housing Register for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes]) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing and Development, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the salient points contained therein informing members of the Cabinet: o That it was proposed that the Authority’s existing Lettings Policy was revised in response to a recent Judicial Review and associated judgement against the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. o In this case the appellant’s lawyer had identified a loophole in the wording of the Lettings Policy and used this to ensure the client’s housing need was prioritised, when otherwise it would not have been: as the client had been assessed as homeless and eligible for assistance but not in priority need. o There was a need to close the loophole so that it was not used by other, in a similar position, to secure priority over persons assessed to be both homeless and in priority need. That would be unfair as the statutorily homeless and those assessed to be in priority need were vulnerable elements of the Community, whereas the single homeless were not necessarily vulnerable. If the policy was not amended it would place further pressure on the limited housing resources available to the Council. o The revised Lettings Policy would not disadvantage those generally on the housing waiting list.
· Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 7th April 2009, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings. Also undertaking to provide members of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee with a written copy of his response.
The Chair Moved the recommendations as set out in the report and it was: -
Resolved:
1. That paragraph 2.2.2 of the Lettings Policy (Community Group 2) be amended as follows: “to include persons who are statutorily homeless and who have an assessed priority need and are accepted as unintentionally homeless.”;
2. That paragraph 2.2.3 of the Lettings Policy (Community Group 3) be amended as follows: “to include persons who are statutorily homeless and who do not have an assessed priority need, and all other housing applicants who do not fall within groups 1,2 or 4”; and
3. That paragraph 2.3 of the Lettings Policy be amended as follows: “Group 3 If you are not included in any of these other groups or have been assessed as homeless but are not in priority need, your application will normally be placed in Group 3”.
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Local Authority Carbon Management Programme (CAB 139/089) PDF 78 KB Additional documents: Decision: Resolved:
1. That the Carbon Management Plan attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 139/089), be approved;
2. That the following targets for reducing carbon emissions from Council operations as outlined in the Carbon Management Plan be agreed:-
· 25% by 2012 · 40% by 2016 · 60% by 2020
3. That a corporate framework be developed to verify, achieve and maintain carbon reduction targets over the longer term within the Authority’s Strategic Plan;
4. That the Authority’s Capital Strategy be revised to include the aim of ‘Reducing the Council’s carbon footprint and assisting the community to do likewise’;
5. That all new capital scheme funding applications include a Carbon Impact Assessment;
6. That the Corporate Director Development and Renewal be instructed to review the Asset Management Plan (AMP) to assess the forward ‘Carbon Reduction Commitment’ risks being created by schemes already agreed within the capital programme, in the context of the Asset Management Plan’s ability to deliver savings and cost reductions over the medium term;
7. That it be noted that the target carbon reductions included in the Carbon Management Plan and the implementation of the projects detailed in the plan are essential to the achievement of the following National Indicators:
· NI185 %C CO2 reduction from LA operations · NI186 Per capita CO2 emissions in the LA area
8. That the introduction of the Carbon Reduction Commitment from 2010/2011 onwards and the potential financial penalties for not reducing carbon emissions, be noted.
Action by CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. Dalvi) Service Head Strategy, Regeneration and Sustainability, Development and Renewal, (J. Odunoye)
Minutes: Ms Carless, Environmental Sustainability Officer, Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair in introducing the report: · Summarised the salient points contained therein as follows: o Informing the Cabinet that tackling climate change was now a core policy driver at both local and national government level, and from 2009 all authorities would be assessed by Government through the Comprehensive Area Assessment (CAA), on their ability to work together with local public and private partners to reduce their energy consumption both within and beyond organisational boundaries. o Advising that the 2008 Comprehensive Performance Assessment, in which the Authority had been scored as a four star excellent Council, had contained two key recommendations for improvement including giving greater priority to environmental sustainability. The Audit Commission would be pursuing key lines of enquiry in relation to the Use of Resources element of the CAA which required the Council to make effective use of natural resources. This included assessment of its ability to Ø Understand and quantify its use of natural resources and identify the main influencing factors Ø Manage performance to reduce its impact on the environment Ø Manage environmental risks it faced, working with partners · Informing the Cabinet that the Carbon Management Plan (CMP) would contribute to achievement of National Indicators 185 (reduction from local authority operations), 186 (per capita reduction),194 (air quality), 187 (fuel poverty). It would also reduce financial penalties under the Carbon Reduction Commitment. · Detailing the authority’s carbon baseline for 2008 and associated energy costs and the main contributors to the baseline: Schools, civic buildings, housing and Leisure. · Outlining the cost or value at stake of not undertaking the CMP, defined as the business as usual and reduced emissions scenarios, estimated to be £4 million if the 25% reduction target was reached by 2012 or £9.7 million if the 60% target was reached by 2020. · Outlining the key areas of activity in the proposed CMP and advising that a key element of the CMP was the Carbon Embedding Matrix which would commit the Authority to achieving level 5 in all areas by 2011. · Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 7th April 2009, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.
Councillor Peck, Lead Member Resources and Performance: · Commented that report was inevitably quite technical, given the subject matter, but that this should not detract from the step change in policy that it contained, possibly one of the biggest in the 3 years of the current Administration, and certainly moving policy further forward in this area than ever before. · Commented that it was recognised that the Authority’s environmental performance had lagged behind improved performance in other areas and a key factor in this had been its energy use. The Audit Commission had highlighted this and the Administration had acknowledged it must be addressed. This was important given the ... view the full minutes text for item 6.2 |
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Additional documents: Decision: Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities, Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Councillor Ahmed was a Board Member - Olympic Delivery Authority - Planning Decision Team.
Councillor S Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/2010”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Capital Programme for Highways, Councillor Islam had a suggestion to make regarding the inclusion of a scheme relating to John Scurr Primary School in the Capital Programme and Councillor Islam was a school governor at John Scurr primary school.
Resolved:
1. That the schemes listed in appendices A & B to the report (CAB 140/089) be included within the Communities Localities & Cultural Services Directorate’s 2009/2010 Capital Programme;
2 That, subject to the identification of available funding, as set out in paragraph 3.2 of the report, (CAB 140/089), the Capital Estimates (sum specified in estimated scheme cost column) be adopted for the schemes as outlined in Appendices A & B to the report, (CAB 140/089);
3. That that the Council’s Measured Term Contracts be used for the implementation of the Transportation and Highways Works where appropriate; and
4. That the Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, give consideration to future inclusion of the following in the Communities, Localities and Culture Capital Programme: · Improvements to the highway in the vicinity of the entrance to John Scurr Primary School, Bethnal Green, to increased pedestrian safety. · Installation of a pedestrian crossing in proximity to Bangabhandu Primary School, Bethnal Green. · Improvements to the highway in the vicinity of New Road, Whitechapel and Kobi Nazrul Primary School, to increased pedestrian safety.
Action by CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE (S . HALSEY) Finance Manager, Communities, Localities & Culture (L. Cully)
Minutes: Councillor Rofique U. Ahmed declared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities, Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/10”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Councillor Ahmed was a Board Member - Olympic Delivery Authority - Planning Decision Team.
Councillor S Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 6.3 “Communities Localities & Cultural Services Directorate Capital Programme 2009/2010”. The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the Authority’s Capital Programme for Highways, Councillor Islam had a suggestion to make regarding the inclusion of a scheme relating to John Scurr Primary School in the Capital Programme and Councillor Islam was a school governor at John Scurr primary school.
Mr Halsey, Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Briefly summarised salient points contained therein, drawing the attention of members of the Cabinet to the schemes proposed for inclusion in the Communities, Localities and Culture (CLC) 2009/10 Capital Programme, as detailed in Appendix A and B to the report; and also to the element of these funded by London Borough of Tower Hamlets. · Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 7th April 2009, in relation to the report; as set out in the tabled sheet of questions and comments presented by the Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee earlier in the proceedings.
A discussion followed which focused on the following points:- · The focus on pedestrian and cycling related schemes was welcomed in the context of a recognised need to improve such provision. It was however requested that use of the allocated resources be expeditiously progressed in 2009/10. · In referring to the proposed scheme, detailed at page 2 of Appendix A to the report, for a cycle contra-flow at Old Ford Road, Councillor Peck reported that cyclists had complained to him that drivers were breaking the 20mph limit along Old Ford Road, and this was in fact exacerbated by the central reservations which had been installed to slow traffic, but which actually forced speeding cars towards the kerb. Speed surveys requested by Councillor Peck, Lead Member Resources and Performance, had proved that the 20mph limit was regularly being exceeded but Highways had concluded that no action should be taken. Councilllor Peck requested the Corporate Director Communities Localities and Culture to review this decision, with a view to increasing safety for cyclists. · Considered that the pedestrian crossing on Grove Road was very dangerous. In this context a fatal accident, several year’s ago, and a serious accident when an elderly resident had been knocked down on the crossing by a vehicle, was noted. Councillor Peck, Lead Member Resources and Performance, had pursued this matter and in particular the potential to convert the zebra crossing to a pelican crossing, with Transport for London (TfL), but without success. In this context ... view the full minutes text for item 6.3 |
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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 |
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Commission into the Public Safety of Young People in Tower Hamlets (CAB 141/089) PDF 43 KB Additional documents: Decision: Resolved:
That the recommendations of the Commission into the Public Safety of Young People in Tower Hamlets, as set out in the report (CAB 141/089), be endorsed.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN’S SERVICES (K. COLLINS) Service Head, Youth and Community Learning, Children’s Services (M. Durkin)
Minutes: The Chair, in introducing the report:- · Formally thanked Mr Collins, Corporate Director Children’s Services, and Ms Durkin, Service Head Youth and Community Learning, and their Officer Team Officer team for their support of the Commission’s activities and the report setting out the findings and recommendations of the Commission. · Commented that the commission, which he had welcomed the opportunity to chair, had met over six months and looked at the safety of young people. · Commissioners had been drawn from across the spectrum of agencies working with young people, and young people themselves (two deputy young mayors sat on the commission). Other commissioners were from the college, the police, churches and mosques, the local authority, the fire brigade. The Chair formally thanked all the commissioners for contributing their valuable time to assist the Commission with its work.
Councillor Hawkins, Lead Member Children’s Services, commented as follows:- · The public safety of young people was an issue of enormous significance and central to the Community Plan theme of One Tower Hamlets and therefore a key driver for the Authority. · Violent crime and the fear of it was a real and significant issue for the young people of Tower Hamlets. The perceptions of such crime were often disproportionate to the reality, indeed the Commission had found that the crime rate was falling, however both perceptions and reality must be addressed particularly as the victims of such crime were often young people themselves. · One issue that had emerged had been how poor access to transport and mobility could limit the options and experiences of young people. One outcome was territorialism, which was greatly damaging to both those in the associated groups of young people, as well as for those they encountered. It was positive to have pride in your community, but not to be defensive if others came into that community. · Issues such as this were emotive, however the Commission’s review had been worthwhile because of an honest and transparent examination of such issues. The contribution of all the witnesses to this was commendable, and the outcome had been illuminating. · The Commission had found that the vast majority of young people were law abiding and this premise had identified challenging issues. One was that young people were entitled to congregate in public places in a social manner, also to use the amenities such as parks; and the Authority needed to protect them when they were there. · The Commission had shown how important it was to listen and recent initiatives with young people, and other initiatives such as the Young Mayor’s election and the You Decide campaign, had created a positive foundation to build on in this respect. · It was important now to provide the necessary support to families, which provided a much needed focus which transcended ethnicity and generation. · There was much to take forward in conjunction with partners of the Council, as a result of the Commission, and the findings would contribute to the next Youth Justice Plan.
A discussion followed during which the ... view the full minutes text for item 8.1 |
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Additional documents: Decision: Resolved:
1. That the contents of the Tower Hamlets Local Safeguarding Children’s Board (LSCB) annual report and business plan and outcomes arising from LSCB ‘stocktake’, be noted;
2. That the summary of Lord Laming’s report be noted;
3. That the appointment of an independent chair of the LSCB be agreed;
4. That it be noted that the appointment, referred to in resolution 3 above, will be made by the Director of Children’s Services after consultation with the Authority’s Board partners;
5. That it be agreed that the Authority should support appointment of an independent chair by the LSCB for any future serious case reviews;
6. That it be noted that a further report will be provided in relation to the full implementation of any changes arising from Government’s response to Lord Laming’s report. This will include proposals to support elected councillors in developing a greater understanding of the issues relating to safeguarding and their role and responsibilities in this area; and
7. That the outcome of the Ofsted evaluations of Serious Case Reviews undertaken in 2007/08, be noted;
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN’S SERVICES (K. COLLINS) Service Head, Children’s Social Care, Children’s Services (K. Rambellas)
Minutes: Mr Collins, Corporate Director Children’s Services, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report, summarised the salient points contained therein as follows: · The Tower Hamlets Local Safeguarding Children’s Board had been established in 2006 in response to legislation. As a result of its partnership approach to safeguarding children in Tower Hamlets, there had been full engagement with all stakeholders and the Board was considered to be a leader amongst the boards of London boroughs. · The Board had last reported to Cabinet in 2007 and the associated business plan had been adhered to. The paper before the Cabinet contained a further annual report and business plan for consideration and approval. The recommended work plan had been the subject of wide ranging consultation and agreement with all appropriate partners and agencies. · The report particularly focused on the implications for Tower Hamlets of the Baby P case, the recent report of Lord Laming following a further review of safeguarding arrangements, and the 4 serious case reviews undertaken by the Board since April 2007. · The report also captured learning from the recent Joint Area Review and Corporate Area Assessment. · The report recommended the appointment of an independent chair of the Board, chaired to date by Mr Collins, and also endorsement of the proposal that the Board should appoint an independent chair of any future serious case reviews. Although Lord Laming had been ambivalent in his recommendations in this regard, Mr Collins considered this approach to be sensible. · A further report would contain proposals for supporting the training of Councillors in understanding both safeguarding issues and their associated role and responsibilities. He considered this key to management of the Authority’s reputation in the community. · The proposals contained in the report would build on the Authority’s existing strong position on safeguarding children.
Councillor Hawkins, Lead Member Children’s Services:_ · Commented that safeguarding children was a fundamental duty of the authority. · Paid tribute to the dedication, hard work, commitment of child social workers, and all involved in such social work: including the voluntary sector organisations and professional agencies such as the Metropolitan Police. · Welcomed the stock take of Tower Hamlets Local Safeguarding Children’s Board arrangements. · Stated her support for the proposed independent chair of the Board and also of independent chairs appointed by the board for any serious case review. · Formally thanked Mr Collins, Corporate Director Children’s Services, and Ms Rambellas, former Service Head Children’s Social Care, for their contribution to the Board’s activities, and also the review into safeguarding arrangements; commenting that solid judgements had resulted in the strong position of the Authority to date in this area. · Emphasised the importance of continued partner working in this area. · Stated her support for the training of Councillors in safeguarding in order that such work could be properly scrutinised and robustly challenged. · Commended the proposals contained in the report to members of the Cabinet.
A discussion followed during which the proposals contained in the report were welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · What provision existed ... view the full minutes text for item 8.2 |
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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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Additional documents:
Decision: Resolved:
That the Age, Race, Religion/Belief and Sexual Orientation Equality Schemes 2009-12, as set out in Appendix 1 of the report (CAB 143/089), be agreed.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE (L. Ali) Service Head, Scrutiny and Equalities, Chief Executive’s (M. Keating) Diversity and Equality Coordinator, Scrutiny and Equalities, Chief Executive’s (F. Jones) Minutes: Mr Keating, Service Head Scrutiny and Equalities, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report, summarised the salient points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · The proposed equality schemes consolidated a range of work that was already in place but had been ambitiously refreshed to ensure Tower Hamlets remained at the cutting edge of diversity and equality practice in Local Government. The refresh had facilitated an adult debate in spite of some potential challenges such as the relationship between faith and sexual orientation. · Strong performance in this area was vital to continued excellence in the Comprehensive Area Agreement, as the achievement of One Tower Hamlets was central to the Community Plan · Table 1 detailed at page 4 of the report which set out the key priorities to address inequality across the equality strands. · The emphasis on partnership working and workforce to reflect the community articulated in the schemes. · The articulation within the schemes of how activities meshed with Council priorities and also how to take the work forward in terms of corporate activities. · Recognition that some information was not as sophisticated as it could be and consequently each scheme had an associated action plan based on Community Plan themes.
A discussion followed, during which the proposed equality schemes were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · How to ensure an effective dress code was in place which could address issues related to dress dictated by faith, for example Muslim women wearing the niqab. · Negatives, positives and rationale with regard to terminology in the equality schemes being specific in respect of ethnicity, for example Bangladeshi and Somali rather than BME.
Councillor Islam, Deputy Leader of the Council:- · Formally thanked Mr Keating, Service Head Scrutiny and Equalities and his Officer team for their dedication and hard work in producing the 6 Equality Schemes. · Commented that equality was a key driver for the Authority and underpinned all its activities and everyone connected with the Authority had a responsibility to strive to achieve this. The proposed Equality Schemes articulated what the Council and its partners needed to deliver to achieve the high aspiration of ‘One Tower Hamlets’, which was about reducing inequalities and poverty, strengthening cohesion and making sure communities in Tower Hamlets continued to live well together. · Noted that 2009 marked the tenth anniversary of the publication of the Stephen Lawrence report - a significant landmark in the history of how the public sector dealt with issues of equality and the initiation of the Authority’s legal duties to promote equality. · Commented that the Authority had come a long way since those first duties came in to force both in terms of equality outcomes we achieved across the 6 equality strands, and confidence and capacity to tackle inequality. The next significant landmark would be the Single Equality Bill, which would overhaul and replace current equality legislation and present new challenges. · Considered that the proposed Equality Schemes would further enhance the Authority’s capacity to respond to the requirements of the Single ... view the full minutes text for item 10.1 |
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Additional documents: Decision: Errata Sheet Tabled.
Resolved:
1. That the performance of the Authority on its Workforce to Reflect the Community Strategy, be noted; and
2. That the Workforce to Reflect the Community Strategy 2009/2010 and associated Action Plan, set out in Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 144/ 089), be agreed.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Joint Director of Human Resources (D. Clarke) Joint Assistant Director Organisational Development, Workforce Strategies and Equalities, Resources (M. Grimley)
Minutes: The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the Joint Director of Human Resources had Tabled an errata sheet containing an amendment to Table 8 detailed on page 12 of Appendix 1 to the report, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Ms Clarke, Joint Director of Human Resources, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report, summarised the salient points contained therein, informing members of the Cabinet that: · This report was linked to the report previously considered “Age, Race, Religion/Belief and Sexual Orientation Equality Schemes 2009-12”. · The Workforce to Reflect the Community Strategy was key for the Authority and like any good strategy was a live document and constantly updated/ refreshed. · This report focussed primarily on the 3 areas below and future activities would focus on these priorities: o Increasing the number of BME/disabled senior managers o Increasing the number of disabled people generally o Increasing the number of Bangladeshi employees generally and at senior levels · For the first time an analysis of the workforce in each Directorate was detailed, together with targets for training and positive action schemes aimed at achieving a step change in performance. · It was also important to recognise the successes to date: o Nearly half of the Authority’s employees were BME which placed it at the top of performance the performance league for all 432 local authorities. o Half of the Auhtority’s employees aged under 30 were Bangladeshi.
A discussion followed, during which the proposed strategy was broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · Ms Clarke, Joint Director of Resources and her Officer team, were formally thanked for their hard work in developing the proposals. · Councillor Rahman, Leader of the Council, and Councillor Islam, Deputy Leader of the Council were thanked for their commitment and leadership in progressing delivery of the objectives of the Administration relating to Workforce to Reflect the Community. · With reference to paragraph 3.3 bullet point 2 clarification sought and given with regard to equality of opportunity in workforce progression. Noted that the Corporate Equality Steering Group would be examining this in detail in the near future. · With reference to Appendix 1, page 3,bullet point 10 [agency staff not reflective of community they serve] commented that in Children’s Services more than 50% of the workforce were agency staff and consideration that this area merited further Council-wide examination, and an analysis of agency staff was required before the issue could be addressed. · Clarification sought and given with regard to Workforce to Reflect the Community targets and activities beyond 2010. · Negatives, positives and rationale with regard to terminology being specific in respect of ethnicity, for example Bangladeshi rather than BME. · Noted the recent improvement in the representation of BME communities at Corporate Management Team and consideration that this was reflective of the Authority’s determination to ensure a Workforce to Reflect the Community. · Consideration that further analysis of the composition of the workforce by Directorate was required; also detail as to the representation of the Somali ... view the full minutes text for item 10.2 |
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ANY OTHER UNRESTRICTED BUSINESS CONSIDERED TO BE URGENT |
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Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10 (CAB 145/089) PDF 73 KB Decision: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor O Ahmeddeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Reasons for Special Circumstances and Urgency agreed.
Resolved:
1. That in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Communities and Local Government’s guidance, it be agreed that it was the Authority’s intention to pass on the reduced rent increases to tenants; and it also be agreed that the Authority wished to take up the offer of the receipt of additional HRA Subsidy, in order to do this.
2. That the decision of the Cabinet, taken at its meeting held on 14th January 2009 [in relation to Agenda item 10.4 “Housing Revenue Account - First Budget and Rent Setting Report - 2009/10 (CAB 097/089)] to increase rents by a weekly average of £4.47, from the first rent week in April 2009, not be implemented;
3. That the 2009/10 rent increase be deferred until rent week 9 (which begins on 1 June 2009) in order to facilitate the introduction of the lower rent increase [referred to in resolution 1. above];
4. That the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal be authorised to bid for additional subsidy following the decision to lower the average rent increase in 2009/10 to equal or lower than 3.1%;
5. Subject to the subsidy referred to in resolution 4. above being secured, that an average weekly rent increase of £2.80 per week with effect from the 1st June 2009 (i.e. rent week 9) be agreed. Also that it be noted that In conjunction with resolution 3 above, this would equate to an average rent increase of 2.9% over a full year if implemented from 1st April 2009;
6. That the Corporate Director, Development & Renewal, after consultation with the Lead Member for Housing and Development, be authorised to implement the rent increase, referred to in resolution 5. above, having regard to the final Government settlement of Housing Subsidy with such variation as that may require; and
7. That the amended 2009/10 Housing Revenue Account Budget, as set out in Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 145/089), be approved.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Services Head Resources, Development and Renewal, (C. Holme) ... view the full decision text for item 11.1 Minutes: Councillor S. Islamdeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Islam was a tenant of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor O Ahmeddeclared a personal interest in Agenda item 11.1 Housing Revenue Account Amended Rent Setting Report 2009/10” (CAB 138/089). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the level of housing rent for properties in the ownership of the Authority (managed by Tower Hamlets Homes also known as the ALMO) and Councillor Ahmed was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that the special circumstances and reasons for urgency associated with the proposals were detailed on the front page of the report. The Cabinet subsequently agreed the special circumstances and reasons for urgency as set out on the front page of the report and also set out below:
· On 6th March 2009, the Minister of State for Housing and Planning announced that she intended to reduce the national average guideline rent increase as a consequence of the “unprecedented global downturn in the economy.” · On the 26th March 2009, Communities and Local Government (DCLG) published a consultation document setting out its proposals for amending Housing Subsidy Determination 2009/10. The consultation document invites Local Authorities to bid for additional subsidy if they are prepared to reduce their actual rent increase to 3.1% or less. Authorities wishing to take up the offer must notify the Department of Communities & Local Government by Friday 24th April, 2009. Members consideration of the Minister of State’s offer is therefore urgently required in order satisfy this requirement. · The report was unavailable for public inspection within the standard timescales set out in the Authority’s constitution for the reasons set out above. · The report has been completed prior to the issue of the Department of Communities and Local Government’s final amended Subsidy Determinations. The figures within the report are based on an assessment of the implications contained within the consultation document published on the 26th March 2009. Any significant changes between the draft and final determinations could have a major impact upon the Housing Revenue Account. Members will be notified of any significant changes. · If the Council fails to indicate a wish to pass on reduced rent increases to tenants, then the guideline rent increase will remain unaltered from that notified in December, and no additional subsidy will be made available.
Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing and Development, in introducing the report, summarised the salient points contained therein commenting that: · Cabinet had considered a report in January 2009 in relation to the setting of a housing rent level for properties ... view the full minutes text for item 11.1 |
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UNRESTRICTED REPORTS FOR INFORMATION 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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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: The agenda circulated contained no Section Two business (business containing information defined as exempt or confidential in Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government, Act 1972. There was therefore no requirement to exclude the press and public, under the provisions of Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985, to allow for consideration of such business prior to the conclusion of the meeting.
Minutes: The agenda circulated contained no Section Two business (business containing information defined as exempt or confidential in Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government, Act 1972. There was therefore no requirement to exclude the press and public, under the provisions of Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985, to allow for consideration of such business prior to the conclusion of the meeting.
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EXEMPT / CONFIDENTIAL MINUTES Nil items.
Decision: Nil Items. Minutes: Nil Items. |
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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 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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