Agenda, decisions and draft minutes
Venue: Ecology Centre, Grove Road, off Haverfield Road, London E3 5TW
Contact: Angus Taylor, Democratic Services Tel: 020 7364 4333, E-mail: angus.taylor@towerhamlets.gov.uk
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COUNCILLOR H. ABBAS (CHAIR) IN THE CHAIR
The Chair opened the meeting by: · Welcoming those present in the public gallery to the first meeting of the Cabinet to be held outside the Town Hall, commenting that the attendance was significantly higher than normal, with many new faces. · Stating that forthcoming Cabinet meetings prior to the Mayoral election in October 2010 were, at his request, also to be held in the Community with a view to promoting resident attendance and engagement.
Councillor Khatun, Lead Member Children’s Services, announced that she was very pleased to inform members of the Cabinet that the Coalition Government had confirmed that Building Schools for the Future funding for projects in the borough would be unaffected by recent announcements about cuts in the programme’s funding.
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COUNCILLOR H. ABBAS (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:
· Councillor A. Ullah, Lead Member Community Safety.
Apologies for lateness were received on behalf of:
· Mr C. Naylor, Corporate Director Resources. · Mr A. Dalvi, Corporate Director Development and Renewal · Mr S. Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture.
Noted.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of:
· Councillor A. Ullah, Lead Member Community Safety.
Apologies for lateness were received on behalf of:
· Mr C. Naylor, Corporate Director Resources. · Mr A. Dalvi, Corporate Director Development and Renewal · Mr S. Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture.
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 D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to primary schools in general, and John Scurr Primary School in particular, and Councillor Islam was a member of the governing body of John Scurr Primary School.
Councillor R. Saunders declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained a recommendation relating to the expansion of Wellington Primary School, which was located in Mile End East Ward and Councillor Saunders was one of the Ward Councillors for Mile End East Ward and also had been a leading participant in the lobbying campaign for the expansion of the school.
Noted.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to primary schools in general, and John Scurr Primary School in particular, and Councillor Islam was a member of the governing body of John Scurr Primary School.
Councillor R. Saunders declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained a recommendation relating to the expansion of Wellington Primary School, which was located in Mile End East Ward and Councillor Saunders was one of the Ward Councillors for Mile End East Ward and also had been a leading participant in the lobbying campaign for the expansion of the school.
Noted.
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UNRESTRICTED MINUTES PDF 160 KB To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010.
Decision: Resolved
That subject to the amendments set out below the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.
· Page 13 - Agenda item 7.1 “Children and Young People's Plan Annual Review 2009-10” final bullet point on page: deletion of the text “continued not to address the needs of the west of the borough” and insertion of the text “continued not to address the needs of the west of the LAP”.
· Page 18 - Agenda item 7.2 “Establishment of a Children and Families Trust Board for Tower Hamlets” Resolution 4 at top of page: deletion of the text “That an expeditious review of the membership and organisational structure of the Children and Families Trust Board be undertaken, by the Authority’s Transformation Board……and the outcomes be reported back to Cabinet.” and insertion of the text “That a review of the membership and organisational structure of the Children and Families Trust Board be undertaken, by the Authority’s Transformation Board……and the outcomes be reported back to the next meeting of the Cabinet.”
· Page 20 - Agenda item 11.1 “Government announcement of 6.2 billion in year spending cuts” final bullet point on page: deletion of the text “having achieved £5 million in efficiency savings over the last 5 years” and insertion of the text “having achieved £5 million in efficiency savings in each of the last 5 years”.
· Page 21 - agenda item 11.1 “Government announcement of 6.2 billion in year spending cuts”: Deletion of the text in bullet 3 “Expressed dismay that the proposed cuts would impact disproportionately on Tower Hamlets and the most needy in the Community, and offered support in the lobbying of the Coalition Government in this regard.” and insertion of the text “Commented that were it to be the case that the proposed cuts would impact disproportionately on Tower Hamlets and the most needy in the Community, she would be as dismayed as members of the Cabinet and would offer her support in the lobbying of the Coalition Government in this regard.”
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The clerk advised that the Chief Executive had received a request from Councillor Eaton that a minor amendment be made to the record of her comments relating to agenda item 11.1 “Government announcement of 6.2 billion in year spending cuts” (page 21) as follows: · Deletion of the text in bullet 3 “Expressed dismay that the proposed cuts would impact disproportionately on Tower Hamlets and the most needy in the Community, and offered support in the lobbying of the Coalition Government in this regard.” and insertion of the text “Commented that were it to be the case that the proposed cuts would impact disproportionately on Tower Hamlets and the most needy in the Community, she would be as dismayed as members of the Cabinet and would offer her support in the lobbying of the Coalition Government in this regard.” The Chair commented that he was amenable to the amendment requested by Councillor Eaton.
Councillor Peck, Deputy Leader of the Council and Vice-Chair, proposed that the minutes be amended to correct the following 3 points of inaccuracy: · Page 13 - Agenda item 7.1 “Children and Young People's Plan Annual Review 2009-10” final bullet point on page: he had stated that youth services continued not to address the needs of the west of LAP 5 and not the west of the borough, as recorded. · Page 18 - Agenda item 7.2 “Establishment of a Children and Families Trust Board for Tower Hamlets” Resolution 4 at top of page: he recalled that a specific timescale for review of the membership and organisational structure of the Children and Families Trust Board had been set by the Cabinet and accordingly the reference to an “expeditious review” should be replaced with the specific timescale “that the outcomes of the review be reported back to the next meeting of the Cabinet”. · Page 20 - Agenda item 11.1 “Government announcement of 6.2 billion in year spending cuts” final bullet point on page: he had referred to the achievement of £5 million in efficiency savings in each of the last 5 years, not the achievement of £5 million in efficiency savings over the last 5 years, as recorded.
The Chair Moved (taking account of the proposed amendments from Councillor Peck and the advisement of the Clerk on behalf of Councillor Eaton); and it was: -
Resolved
That subject to the amendments set out below the unrestricted minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010 be approved and signed by the Chair, as a correct record of the proceedings.
· Page 13 - Agenda item 7.1 “Children and Young People's Plan Annual Review 2009-10” final bullet point on page: deletion of the text “continued not to address the needs of the west of the borough” and insertion of the text “continued not to address the needs of the west of LAP 5”.
· Page 18 - Agenda item 7.2 “Establishment of a Children and Families Trust Board for Tower Hamlets” Resolution 4 at top of page: deletion of ... view the full minutes text for item 3. |
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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 Decision: Nil items. Minutes: Nil items. |
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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 in relation to the unrestricted business of the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 6th July 2010.
Decision: Sheet of questions and comments arising from the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 6th July 2010 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 – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Executive Team Leader, Democratic Services, Chief Executive’s (A. Taylor)
Minutes: The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Jackson, 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 6th July 2010, in respect of the unrestricted business contained in the agenda for consideration, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Councillor Jackson, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, addressed members of the Cabinet: · Reporting consideration of the Diversity and Equality Action plan 2009/10 by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and submitting a variety of comments from the discussion to inform Cabinet consideration of the same report. · Reporting that the Single Equality Framework, contained in the agenda before members of the Cabinet, had been welcomed by the Committee as was the assurance from Councillor Saunders, Lead Member Health and Wellbeing, that she would accommodate their comments on the Framework. · Reporting receipt of updates from the 6 Scrutiny Lead Members on the areas of work they would be undertaking in the year ahead, and outlining the specific areas for review. · Key Issues or Questions (Pre Scrutiny) Informing members of the Cabinet that she had nothing to add to the questions/ comments raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as set out in the tabled paper regarding: - o Item 6.1 Idea Store Strategy Action Plan Update - Idea Store Metro Watney Market and One Stop Shop o Item 6.2 Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus - Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response o Item 7.1 Contracts Forward Plan o Item 10.1 Single Equality Framework 2010/11 o Item 10.3 Petitions Scheme
The Chair thanked Councillor Jackson for presenting the contribution of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, noting the comprehensive work programme that had been agreed by the Committee for the year ahead; and then 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 provisional decisions taken by the Cabinet, at its meeting held on 9th June 2010, had been referred back to Cabinet, by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, for further consideration.
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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE |
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Additional documents:
Decision: Resolved
1. That the progress update on the Idea Store Strategy Action Plan be noted.
2. That the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture be authorised to enter into a grant funding agreement with the Big Lottery Fund (BLF) to secure the £2m of funding provisionally allocated to the project [Idea Store Local and One Stop Shop at Watney Market];
3 That the inclusion of the Idea Store Local and One Stop Shop at Watney Market within the Capital Programme be approved and a Capital Estimate for the sum of £4,101,000 be adopted for the delivery of the scheme;
4 That the Corporate Director Development and Renewal be authorised to facilitate the allocation of S106 commuted sums as part-finance for the scheme [Idea Store Local and One Stop Shop at Watney Market], as set out in the capital profile attached to the report (CAB 010/101), as a matter of priority;
5. That the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture be authorised to proceed with building procurement in accordance with Council’s financial and procurement protocols subject to planning permission;
6 That the use of the Council owned plot of land listed in Appendix 1 for development of the new Idea Store Local and One Stop Shop be authorised; and
7 That the appropriation with immediate effect of the site for planning purposes pursuant to Section 122 of the Local Government Act 1972 be approved; and
8. That the terminology used in the report (CAB 010/101), recommendations contained therein, and going forward in respect of the next phase of Idea Stores, be revised to reflect the wishes of the Cabinet that the word “Local” replace that of “Metro”.
Action by CORPORATE DIRECTOR COMMUNITIES, LOCALITIES AND CULTURE (S. HALSEY) Service Head Cultural Services, Communities, Localities and Culture (H. Bonfield) Head of Idea Store Communities, Localities and Culture (J. St. John) CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) [Resolution 4]
Minutes: Mr Beattie, Acting Service Head Strategy and Resources – Communities Localities and Culture, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · That progress against the Idea Store Action Plan was set out in Appendix 2. · The innovative proposal to develop a new One Stop Shop (OSS) aligned to the development of a new Idea Store (IS) in Watney Market to provide lifelong learning opportunities for local residents. Ø A strategic need had been identified in the area for both an Idea Store, to replace sub- standard library provision, and improved OSS provision replacing accommodation at Cheviot House; also to improve/ develop Watney market itself. The new community facility would enhance the market offer. Ø Value for money was a primary element of the proposal and the co-location of the IS and OSS would enable more effective and efficient delivery of localised services. It was cheaper to link the two developments and joined up working would be improved. Ø The detail of Capital and Revenue resourcing for the scheme were signposted for Members; and attention drawn to the referencing, in error, of a Section 106 contribution to capital funding of the scheme arising from a specific development. There were a range of Section 106 grants available to support the scheme. Ø A key driver for the scheme was availability of £2 million of funding from the Big Lottery Fund, however this was time limited and a timely Cabinet commitment to the scheme was needed to secure the funding. · Addressed, in conjunction with Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 6th July 2010, 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, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · In the context of the need for fiscal tightening it was important to recognise the underlying rationale for the scheme: o Availability of Big Lottery Funding of £2 million was time limited: the BLF Community Library Funding Programme would end in March 2013 and conditions for funding required the scheme to be operational 1 year before this. It was fortunate therefore that the scheme had been in the pipeline. o The need for an IS in the area had been identified but it was not viable to construct one in isolation due to a capital shortfall of £800,000 and a shortfall in revenue going forward. The identified need for an OSS in the area was therefore timely as the marrying of the two schemes would address the financial shortfall and enable the provision of a building which enabled local residents to access OSS services and IS facilities. It would also address the difficulties for these residents of accessing the IS facilities at Whitechapel IS. · The ... view the full minutes text for item 6.1 |
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Decision: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Resolved
1. That the long term financial implications for Tower Hamlets of continuing with the current housing subsidy system and that of the current Housing Revenue Account (HRA) self-financing offer, from the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) “Prospectus” – Council Housing A Real Future, as set out in paragraph 7 of the report (CAB 011/101), be noted;
2. That the response in Appendix 2 of the report (CAB 011/101), submitted to CLG in accordance with the deadline of 5 July 2010, be noted;
3. That the Corporate Director Development and Renewal, after consultation with the Corporate Director Resources, Lead Member Housing Heritage and Planning, and Lead Member Resources be authorised to provide any further responses to CLG that may be required in relation to the Prospectus;
4. That the financial principles set out in paragraph 9.2 of the report (CAB 011/101) to support delivery of a sustainable Housing Revenue Account, be agreed; and
5. That the usage, to support social housing and housing regeneration capital programmes or otherwise, of any aggregated surplus arising from future Right-to-Buy receipts after debts on individual properties that have been the subject of Right-to-Buy have been remitted, be the subject of annual Cabinet consideration.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) CORPORATE DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL (A. DALVI) Service Head Resources, Development and Renewal (C. Holme)
Minutes: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Jones was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 6.2 “Council Housing Finance Reform Prospectus – Implications for Tower Hamlets and Proposed Response” (CAB 011/101). The declaration of interest was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to the future financing of housing for which the Council is landlord (properties in the ownership of the Authority managed by Tower Hamlets Homes), and Councillor Islam was a representative of the Authority on the governing body of Tower Hamlets Homes.
Mr Holme, Service Head Resources – Development and Renewal, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular that: o The former Government’s prospectus on council housing reform represented the most fundamental change in a generation as to how council housing was financed. o Following very lengthy consultation and detailed review it set out a way to address the unfair and highly volatile housing subsidy system. This volatility could have huge in-year financial implications, and planning with any certainty for the years ahead was not possible. o Under the current system the entitlement of Tower Hamlets to subsidy was falling year-on year at an alarming rate, which required costs to be reduced. Furthermore it blurred the relationship between tenants and leaseholders: what they paid in rents/ service charges and the services they received/ costs thereof. o The Coalition Government had stated that it wishes to dismantle the housing subsidy system but a definitive announcement was awaited. o The deadline for response to the Government’s Prospectus had been 6 July and response already submitted by the Authority was appended to the report. The response reflected an assessment: Ø Of the impact of the proposals for Tower Hamlets. These would involve redeeming £277m of housing debt, in return for no longer receiving any future housing subsidy. LBTH would however retain all future Right to Buy (RTB) receipts and rents, which would present a problem under the current system in the longer term because eventually Tower Hamlets would become a net contributor to the subsidy system ie a proportion of rents would be handed over to the Treasury. Ø Of the 2 systems over the next 30 years and conclusion the offer provides the best opportunity for long term sustainability of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and tackling the huge capital investment requirements of the Authority’s dwelling stock. o Officers further recommended that Cabinet reaffirmed and strengthens the HRA financial strategy agreed in February to enable ... view the full minutes text for item 6.2 |
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A PROSPEROUS COMMUNITY |
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Contracts Forward Plan (CAB 012/101) PDF 76 KB Decision: Resolved
1. That the contract summary attached at Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 012/101) be noted, noting also the advisement of the Corporate Director Resources that the estimated value of contract R3195 “Payroll and Integrated HR System” was £380,763 and not the figure stated in Appendix 1; and
2. It be agreed that a specific report be submitted for Cabinet consideration in respect of the following contract, prior to contract award by an appropriate Chief Officer for the service area: · AHWB 3200 “Supporting People Multiple Contracts”.
Action by: CORPORATE DIRECTOR RESOURCES (C. NAYLOR) Service Head, Procurement & Corporate Programmes, Resources (R. Parsons) Senior Procurement Manager (Category & Contract Management), Resources (D. Pridmore)
Minutes: Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the key points contained therein, advising members of the Cabinet in particular that the estimated value of contract R3195 “Payroll and Integrated HR System” was £380,763 and not the figure stated in Appendix 1 to the report. · Addressed, in conjunction with Mr Dalvi, Corporate Director Development and Renewal and Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 6th July 2010, 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:- · Councillor Edgar, Lead Member Resources, commented that the recommendation contained in the report requested that the Cabinet specifically identify contracts where it felt it appropriate that a further report required its consideration prior to contract award by Chief Officers under delegated authority. Accordingly Councillor Edgar proposed the following amendment to the recommendation set out in the report for the consideration of members of the Cabinet: “That a specific report be submitted for Cabinet consideration in respect of the following contracts, prior to contract award by an appropriate Chief Officer for the service area: o AHWB 3200 “Supporting People Multiple Contracts” o CE 3105 “The removal of nuisance vehicles in the borough”” · Mr Halsey, Corporate Director Communities, Localities and Culture, advised members of the Cabinet that the Contract for the removal of nuisance vehicles had been awarded by the Cabinet in April 2010. He added that although he could provide a progress update, it might be more appropriate for any review of contractual arrangements to be included within the scope of the scrutiny review of parking services to be undertaken by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee in 2010/11. The Lead Member Resources confirmed that this would be a satisfactory way forward.
· Clarification was sought and given, as to whether the Tower Hamlets Primary Care Trust (PCT) was the delivery agency for contract CLC 3166 “Medical Assessment Services”. · Comment, with reference to contract DR3232 “Temporary Accommodation“ for the homelessness service that the Lead Member Housing Heritage and Planning was closely following the endeavours of Officers to achieve better value from local landlords on which significant progress had been made. · Comment that cuts to the local housing allowance could cause a significant funding shortfall and therefore problems in the future. This was being capped at the level for a 4 bed property rather than ... view the full minutes text for item 7.1 |
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Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme (CAB 013/101) PDF 186 KB Decision: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to primary schools in general, and John Scurr Primary School in particular, and Councillor Islam was a member of the governing body of John Scurr Primary School.
Councillor R. Saunders declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained a recommendation relating to the expansion of Wellington Primary School, which was located in Mile End East Ward and Councillor Saunders was one of the Ward Councillors for Mile End East Ward and also had been a leading participant in the lobbying campaign for the expansion of the school.
Resolved
1. That the contents of the report (CAB 013/101) and specifically the proposed allocations for 2010/11 and out-turn in the 2009/10 Children Schools and Families (CSF) Programme, detailed in Appendix A and paragraph 6.3 of the report, be noted;
2. That the adoption of revised capital estimates for the 2010/11 modernisation programme for relevant schemes, as shown in Appendix B to the report (CAB 013/101),be approved and expenditure authorised as set out in paragraph 6.7;
3. That the adoption of the revised capital estimate of £3.4m for the remodelling work at the Harry Gosling Primary school as set out in paragraph 6.9 of the report (CAB 013/101), be approved;
4. That the progress with the Primary Capital Programme (PCP) schemes, as shown in Appendix C to the report (CAB 013/101), be noted;and the revised capital costs and estimates within the overall approved programme, as set out in paragraph 6.12, be approved;
5. That the adoption of the revised capital estimate of £6.6m for the expansion project at the Marner Primary school, as set out in paragraph 6.16 of the report (CAB 013/101), be approved;
6. That the adoption of a revised capital estimate of £3.051m for the expansion of Wellington Primary School , as set out in paragraph 6.17 of the report (CAB 013/101), be approved;
7. That the adoption of a revised capital estimate of £4.65m for the expansion of Arnhem Wharf Primary School, as set out in paragraph 6.18 of the report (CAB 013/101), be approved;
8. That the adoption of a preliminary capital estimate of £5.5m for the proposed expansion of Culloden Primary School, as set out in paragraph 6.19 of the report (CAB 013/101), be approved;
9. That the adoption of a capital estimate of a further £250,000 to cover the costs of undertaking feasibility ... view the full decision text for item 7.2 Minutes: Councillor D. Jones declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to schools in general and Councillor Jones was a member of the governing body of Mulberry Secondary School.
Councillor S. Islam declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained recommendations relating to primary schools in general, and John Scurr Primary School in particular, and Councillor Islam was a member of the governing body of John Scurr Primary School.
Councillor R. Saunders declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 7.2 “Children, Schools and Families Capital Programme” (CAB 013/101). The declaration was made on the basis that the report contained a recommendation relating to the expansion of Wellington Primary School, which was located in Mile End East Ward and Councillor Saunders was one of the Ward Councillors for Mile End East Ward and also had been a leading participant in the lobbying campaign for the expansion of the school.
Ms Cattermole, Acting Corporate Director Children, Schools and Families, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · The positive news, announced earlier in the proceedings by the Lead Member Children’s Services, regarding the Government confirmation that BSF funded projects in the borough would be unaffected by recent announcements about cuts in the programme’s funding. · That the report was the second this year on Children Schools and Families (CSF) works across the estate of primary and secondary schools resourced from Government grant, Supported Borrowing, Section 106 contributions, the Local Priorities Programme and contributions from schools. It focused on: o Ensuring that the school stock had a sustainable future. o Ensuring adequate provision of pupil places by the Authority at Primary, Secondary and Early Years level. · Expansion programmes for 18 months to 2 years going forward were presented for Cabinet approval as was the proposed feasibility study for Culloden Primary School.
A discussion followed, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · The inclusion within the proposed capital programme of a scheme for the expansion of Wellington Primary School and the allocation of resources to improve the swimming pool at Stebon Primary School, built with contributions from parents in the 1950’s, was welcomed. · Clarification was sought and given, with regard to a number of schemes for new/replacement windows, included in the CSF capital programme, as to whether the properties for which these were proposed were built in the Victorian period or were of a historic nature; also whether the Authority was complying with heritage/conservation area requirements in relation to such schemes. Commented in this context that there were a number of Victorian schools in Bow West Ward to which PVC windows had been fitted, and ... view the full minutes text for item 7.2 |
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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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Single Equality Framework 2010/11 (CAB 014/101) PDF 147 KB Additional documents: Decision: Resolved
That the Single Equality Framework 2009/10, set out in Appendix 1 to the report (CAB 014/101), be approved.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN) Joint Acting Service Head, Scrutiny and Equalities, Chief Executive’s (F. Jones & H. Ali)
Minutes: Ms Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive – Legal Services, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · That the proposed Single Equality Framework (SEF) would form the Authority’s new Corporate Strategy for promoting diversity and equality, and would assist in achieving the vision within the Community Plan of One Tower Hamlets: prioritising equality outcomes requiring strategic intervention and assuring delivery capacity. · That the Equality Act 2010 was not yet in force but imposed new duties on the Authority, recognising the need to address inequality in a more integrated way. The Equality Framework for Local Government replaced the Equality Standard in 2009, providing a basis to assess the understanding and response to the profile of inequality in their area. The SEF drew together equalities work across the Council including actions necessary to maintain the highest level of the Equality Framework and also responded to the requirements of the Act. · The mapping of inequality across the equality strands, set out at paragraph 4.2 of the report to identify persistent and systemic inequality requiring a holistic response, and the Action Plan to strengthen the Authority’s capacity to tackle inequality set out at page 15 of the SEF appended to the report. · The award in January 2010 of ‘excellent’ status to the Authority in its assessment against the Equality Framework for Local Government, was a strong indication that it had the right approach to understanding and responding to inequality. · Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 6th July 2010, 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, during which the proposals in the report were broadly welcomed, and which focused on the following points:- · Commented that although activities being undertaken across the equality strands had been outlined, it was important to communicate the commitment of the Cabinet, and Administration in general, to tackle homophobic bullying in schools. · Noted that the Single Equality Framework sat above the individual equality schemes and the Authority had been judged to be ‘excellent’ against this, not only for its equality schemes but also its understanding and mainstreaming of equalities in all the activities it undertook. · Commented that the SEF had two main purposes: firstly to build capacity to incorporate equalities into the work of the Tower Hamlets Partnership and the Council in particular; secondly to build understanding of equalities considerations around particular issues in order to effectively inform intervention. A strategic decision had been made to focus on two areas in this regard: reducing the level of unemployment/ worklessness amongst Bangladeshi and Somail residents and women in particular and also the dignity of older people with particular reference to personal care. · Emphasised the importance of tackling the use of homophobic language in any initiative to reduce homophobic bullying and bullying in the borough generally. The importance of this ... view the full minutes text for item 10.1 |
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2010/11 In Year Budget Savings (CAB 015/101) PDF 169 KB Decision: Motion from Councillor D. Edgar, Lead Member Resources Tabled.
Resolved
1. That the list of savings brought forward by officers [summarised in paragraph 7.2 of the report (CAB 015/101) and detailed at Appendix A to the report] be noted;
2. That Cabinet agreement, at its meeting held on 9 June 2010, that the priority in responding to the Government’s spending cuts should be to focus on protecting the delivery of frontline services, and in particular the priority of achieving a safe and secure community for all residents of Tower Hamlets, be noted;
3. That in this context, the following savings proposals totalling £7.63 million be agreed:
4. That the following proposal saving £490,000 be agreed, subject to the agreement of the Schools Forum:
5. That the following activities be continued in 2010/11 and therefore making the following savings, totalling £2.212 million, not be agreed:
6. That the decision of the Government to cut funding for free swimming from 31July 2010, be noted. Also that funding the continuation of free swimming in the borough until 31 October 2010, at a cost of £42,000, largely funded by the additional savings set out below, be agreed (subject to resolution 7 below):
· Reducing Special Responsibility Allowances by 5% with effect from 1 August 2010 thereby saving £13,000.
· Substantially reducing catering at meetings thereby saving £25,000; and
7. That noting the advisement of the Assistant Chief Executive - ... view the full decision text for item 10.2 Minutes: The Chair informed members of the Cabinet that Councillor Edgar, Lead Member: Resources, had Tabled a Motion in relation to the recommendations set out in the report, a copy of which would be interleaved with the minutes.
Mr Naylor, Corporate Director Resources, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report summarised the key points contained therein, advising that: · The Cabinet had considered a report at their meeting in June 2010 that invited them to make decisions in July in respect of closing the in year budget gap, that had arisen as a result of the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s announcement of £6.2 billion of spending cuts, the local government share being £1.160 billion. · The precise detail of the impact on Tower Hamlets had been unknown in June, however Officers had been requested to bring forward proposals in July to achieve £10 million of savings. It was now clear that in 2010/11 Tower Hamlets would receive £4.125 million less in grants than budgeted for and through a process of osmosis it was apparent that a further £5 million of grants received in previous years would not now be allocated. The report presented a range of savings options totalling £10.3 million including £8.1 million of ongoing savings. · A further report in the suite of reports would be submitted for Cabinet consideration in August in relation to a best estimate of the impact of the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s announcement for savings in future years. · Cabinet were recommended to agree a balanced budget to set the Authority on course for the journey to 2011/12 and beyond.
Councillor Edgar, Lead Member Resources, in Moving the tabled motion commented that: - · The announcement ,made earlier in the proceedings by the Lead Member Children’s Services, that the Government had confirmed that Building Schools for the Future resources allocated to schools in the borough would be unaffected by recent announcements about cuts in the programme’s funding, was welcome news. This was a reflection of how the Council had grasped the opportunity, and worked hard and fast to move the proposals forward and secure the funding and achievement of the objectives, and the Member/ Officer team were to be commended for this. · The Council should not be introspective in its approach but reflect on the impact of the spending cuts on other agencies/ partners who provided services to the residents of the borough, such as the National Health Service, and take account of these agencies when making the required spending cuts. · It was important to take account of equality objectives within the budget decision making. The Council needed to ensure it understood the impact of spending cuts on different elements of the community and have thought through its approach in this context. · The motion he had tabled responded to Officer proposals for savings and also to the decision of the Cabinet, in June, to focus on protecting the delivery of front line services and the Administration’s priority of achieving a safe and secure community for all ... view the full minutes text for item 10.2 |
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Petitions Scheme (CAB 016/101) PDF 120 KB Decision: Resolved
1. That the duty to respond to petitions included in the Local Democracy, Economic Development & Construction Act 2009 and the consequent requirement on the Authority to agree a Petition Scheme at the next Council Meeting, to be held on 14 July 2010, be noted;
2. That the draft petition scheme set out at Appendix ‘C’ to the report (CAB 013/101), and in particular the proposed thresholds for the number of signatures required to trigger a Council meeting debate or attendance by a senior officer at the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, be noted; and
3. That the comments/ suggestions made by members of the Cabinet, or other Members speaking with the consent of the Cabinet, be provided to all members of the Council prior to full Council consideration of adoption of the draft petition scheme.
Action by: ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE – LEGAL SERVICES (I. FREEMAN)
Minutes: Ms Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive – Legal Services, at the request of the Chair, in introducing the report: · Summarised the key points contained therein, highlighting in particular: · That the statutory duty on authorities to respond to petitions was effective from 15 June 2010, and each authority was required to adopt and publish a ‘petition scheme’ informing local people how to submit petitions and how the authority would respond. The draft Petition Scheme attached to the report would therefore be recommended for adoption at the meeting of the full Council, to be held on 14 July 2010. · Provisions were now required for a petition exceeding a stated number of signatures to either trigger a debate at a meeting of the full Council or require a senior Officer to appear before the Authority’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee (OSC) to give evidence and answer questions on the matters raised in the petition. Also a provision for right of review by the OSC if the petition organiser did not consider the Authority’s response to be adequate. · The maximum signature threshold permitted was 5% of the borough population, 10,000 in Tower Hamlets, but those recommended of 2000 for a Council debate and 1500 for an Officer to appear at OSC were consistent with the Government model of 1%. · Matters relating to verification of signatures were set out at paragraph 8.3. It was important to note that it was not now permissible to stipulate that signatories are on the Electoral Register as those under 18 must be able to participate in petitioning. · Addressed the matters raised by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, held on 6th July 2010, 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:- · Consideration that the Petition Scheme should provide for petitions to trigger the giving of evidence to the OSC by the Lead Member within whose portfolio the issue raised by the petition fell/ and for which he/ she was accountable, rather than an appropriate Senior Officer. Although it might be helpful for the appropriate Senior Officer to also attend the meeting to respond on matters of detail. Accordingly Councillor Francis, Lead Member Housing Heritage and Planning proposed that appropriate constitutional amendments be made to effect this. · Ms Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive – Legal Services, advised that the requirement in the Act [Local Democracy, Economic Development & Construction Act 2009] referred specifically to attendance by the relevant Chief/Senior Officer to answer questions and give evidence to the OSC. However the draft Petition Scheme appended to the report could be amended to provide for the OSC to also require the appropriate Lead Member to accompany the Chief/Senior Officer in each case. · Councillor Jackson, Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, speaking with Cabinet consent: o Welcomed the response to the pre scrutiny question that: “There may be occasions where two ... view the full minutes text for item 10.3 |
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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 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: 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 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010) contained information Ø Relating to any individual. Ø The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). Ø Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime.
(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:
· Agenda Item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010) relating to o any individual. o The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). o Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. that the public interest in maintaining the exemption on the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing it.
SUMMARY OF EXEMPT PROCEEDINGS
Minutes: The Chair 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 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010) contained information Ø Relating to any individual. Ø The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). Ø Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime.
(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:
· Agenda Item 14. “Exempt/ Confidential Minutes” (of the meeting of the Cabinet held on 9th June 2010) relating to o any individual. o The financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information). o Any action taken or to be taken in connection with the prevention, investigation or prosecution of crime. 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 June 2010.
Decision: Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 9th June 2010 agreed.
Minutes: Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 9th June 2010 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. To receive any advice of key issues in relation to the exempt/ confidential business of the meeting of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee held on 6th July 2010.
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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